Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults suffering from attention deficit disorder are difficult to diagnose and treat. Therapists can help by analyzing the symptoms and their causes, teaching the patient how to build structure, make behavioural modifications, and offering medication when needed.
People with ADD/ADHD experience difficulties with hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsiveness. It is evident by the lack of memory, difficulty waiting for their turn, or having difficulty working on tasks or games.
The Signs of Inattention Type
This subtype of ADHD is distinguished by high distractibility, and difficulty paying attention to the smallest details. Adults with inattention ADHD often find it hard to finish tasks or complete projects that require sustained mental effort, like writing, reading and completing homework. They may have trouble remembering appointments or paying their bills, and are more likely to make careless errors in the workplace or at home.
While the symptoms of inattentive ADHD may have first appeared during childhood, they tend to go undiagnosed because adults are expected to manage their impulsive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms on their own. In the end, their issues can persist throughout their adult lives, and may cause issues with relationships, school performance, and career advancement.
The symptoms of inattention ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands and feet, having difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly as well as difficulty waiting for their turn, and answering questions in a hurry before they are answered. They also are often late to classes or meetings and have difficulty staying organized. People with inattention ADHD are often unable to stay focused at school or work are bored at meetings and have to chew gum or sip coffee to make it through them.
A health care provider will assess a person to determine if they have any mental health or medical conditions that could trigger similar symptoms. Then, they will examine their behavior history to determine if the person has ADD. This could involve speaking to the person's family, teachers and colleagues and asking about their behavior in different settings. The health care provider will also ask about the person's mood and recent medical history.
Psychostimulants are used to enhance alertness and boost brain signals. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are just a few examples of these drugs. Antidepressants that alter neurotransmitters inside the brain are sometimes prescribed to people suffering from inattention ADHD to help improve their mood and focus. They can include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant medications can also be used. These are less likely to cause side effects and include guanfacine (Intuniv), bupropion/atomoxetine, and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors such as Strattera.
Symptoms of Hyperactive/Impulsive Type
People with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD struggle to sit still and remain focused. This can make it difficult for people to concentrate on their studies or work tasks, and could result in a number of mistakes made by careless people. They also have difficulty following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have trouble staying on track when playing games or in leisure activities with other people. They often disrupt and disrupt other players during games, discussions or other activities. They may fiddle with their hands or feet, squirm in their seat or jog while talking or listening.
Children with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADD often have trouble waiting for their turn to speak or play, and they may blurt out their answers before other people have finished speaking. They have trouble with self-control and may often be on the go and unable to stop or slow down, even when they're attending organized events like fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulty managing tasks, finishing long-term projects, or committing themselves to homework or other structured activities.
They typically have a low sense of personal responsibility and have trouble making and keeping friends. They may also have difficulties controlling their emotions, which could result in mood swings or severe depression. They may also have difficulty managing their finances and time and this can make it easier for them to fall victim to financial scams.
Many people suffering from ADHD don't get a diagnosis until they reach adulthood, when their issues become more obvious. During childhood, they may have been missed by teachers or other adults who weren't aware of their problems. They may have learned to cope with their symptoms and thrived in a supportive environment until they faced the stresses of pursuing a career or raising a family, as their issues were more evident. The ratio of males to females in diagnosed ADHD is higher in childhood, however the ratio becomes more comparable as they reach adulthood.
People with ADHD frequently discover that certain dietary supplements, like multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory, can help reduce irritability and improve memory. Stress management techniques such as deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss all treatments with their physician including non-stimulants and stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Symptoms of Mixed Type
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. what is ADHD symptoms in adults have difficulty focusing on long-term mental activities or recalling important things, like homework, schoolwork, chores or work. They also tend to make careless mistakes at school, in the workplace, and in their personal lives. Attention and impulse control can lead to lots of stress and tension in relationships.
The symptoms of this disorder can vary in severity and appear at various stages of life. The ability to be easily distracted, daydreaming and forgetfulness are just a few symptoms. They also include the tendency to lose things like keys or homework and a difficulty in working through tasks. They also have a difficult time sitting still, and they may interrupt or take over games or other leisure activities.
Someone with a mixed presentation of ADHD may find that certain medications help and others don't. Therefore, it's wise to try one at a time and evaluate the outcomes carefully. Adults who have had this presentation since they were teenagers should be re-evaluated every six months, particularly in the event of any lifestyle changes that could alter the dosage of medication needed.
It is important to keep in mind that ADD or ADHD is not a problem of race or ethnicity or gender, but it does seem to affect more people who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). Adults who show a number of symptoms and cannot explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are a variety of ways to manage ADD in adults, which include medications, lifestyle changes and behavior therapy. A combination of treatments is usually the best option, and medication can be prescribed in various forms, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts (Adderall), lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), and atomoxetine (Strattera). These medications aid in increasing concentration by increasing the supply of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Non-stimulants can also be utilized by adults who do not want to take stimulants, or only need them in a low dosage.
Signs and symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Symptoms of inattention may be apparent in the form of difficulty sitting still, forgetfulness, or having trouble finishing tasks, while hyperactivity and impulsivity may manifest as fidgeting, restlessness, squirming or blurting out answers without waiting for a complete question. They find it hard to stay in line or follow instructions. This can result in frustration and rule-breaking behaviors.
Adults who suffer from a combination of ADHD symptoms often have difficulty understanding the social boundaries of the context of a particular situation, which can lead them to interfere with conversations or activities. They do this without considering how others may feel. They are more likely to have a difficult time with organizational strategies and tend to be overwhelmed by complicated projects. In a lot of cases, people with this ADHD appearance may also be suffering from depression or other mood disorders.
Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD is key to identifying the most effective treatment plan. While many people with ADHD struggle to reach out for help, receiving an accurate diagnosis can be a inspiring experience that provides them with the tools needed to manage their symptoms and lead productive, fulfilling lives.
To receive a diagnosis, doctors must identify at least six symptoms of inattention and at least five symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity to a degree that interferes with daily functioning. These symptoms must have been present prior to the age of 12 and continue for at least six months to be considered ADHD. The symptoms must be severe enough to negatively impact the performance of a child at the workplace, at school or at home.
Experts aren't sure the reasons ADHD is a problem, but they are aware that it could be hereditary and that certain genes can increase a person's risk of developing the disorder. They also know that differences in brain structure and brain chemistry play a part in the development of ADHD, and that some people get the disorder on their own, with no family history.
There are various behavioral treatments for adult ADHD, including structured routines and organizational strategies, talk therapy (Cognitive-behavioral therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), exercise and healthy sleep habits. These therapies are usually more effective than medications.