Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults suffering from attention deficit disorder may be difficult to diagnose and treat. Therapists can help by analyzing the symptoms and their root causes, and then teaching the patient how to structure their lives, make behavioural modifications and offer medication if needed.
People with ADD/ADHD have problems with hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Some of the symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty waiting for their turn, and difficulty concentrating on tasks or playing games.
Inattentive Type Symptoms
The most obvious signs of this ADHD subtype include high distraction and difficulty paying attention to the small details. Adults who have inattention ADHD frequently find it difficult to finish tasks or complete projects that require constant mental effort, such as reading, writing and doing homework. They may struggle to remember appointments or paying bills, and are more likely to make impulsive mistakes in their work or home life.
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. Their issues can continue into adulthood and affect their relationships, school performance and even their career development.
Attention-deficit ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, having trouble engaging in leisure activities, difficulties waiting for their turn, and blurting answers when the questions are not finished. They also have trouble staying organized at home and at work and are often late for classes or meetings. Those with inattentive 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 the patient for any possible mental health issues or medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms and then analyze their behavior history to determine if they suffer from ADD. You can inquire about the person's behavior under various situations by speaking to their parents or teachers as well as their coworkers. The health care provider will also inquire about the person's mood and recent medical background.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for inattention ADHD are psychostimulants that streamline the brain's signals and improve alertness. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are a few examples of these medications. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain, are often prescribed to people suffering from inattentive ADHD to improve their mood and focus. They can include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant drugs can also be utilized. 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 makes it difficult to focus on schoolwork or work tasks and could lead to unintentional errors. They also have difficulty following directions or completing complex tasks. They also struggle to stay focused while playing games or taking part in leisure activities. They can be disruptive and disrupt others during games, conversations or other activities. They may fiddle with their hands or feet or even squirm their seat or walk around 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 struggle with self-control, and often be on the go and unable to stop or slow down, even when they're attending organized events such as fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulty managing tasks, completing long-term projects, or committing themselves to homework or other structured activities.
They typically have a low sense of personal responsibility and may have trouble creating and maintaining relationships. They may also have trouble regulating their emotions which can lead them to mood swings or depression. They may also have trouble managing their time and finances which could 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. In their early years, they could have been missed by teachers or other adults who weren't aware of their problems. They may have adapted to compensate for their symptoms and thrived in a supportive environment until they faced the stress of working or raising a family when their problems became more apparent. In symptoms of inattentive ADHD in adults , the male-to female* ADHD ratio is higher. However, it becomes more equal in adulthood.
Certain supplements in the diet can help reduce the irritability of people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA as well as taurine. GABA fish oil, and Brain Vitale. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should talk to their doctor about all treatments options including stimulants (Strattera) as well as non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (Wellbutrin).
Symptoms of Mixed Type
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have trouble staying focused on tasks that require a lot of mental effort for long periods of time or causing things to stay in their minds like schoolwork, chores, homework or work. They also tend to make careless mistakes at school, at work as well as in their personal lives. Attention and control of impulses can cause lots of stress and trouble in relationships.
Symptoms of this presentation often manifest at different times in life, and they may vary from mild to severe. Being easily distracted, daydreaming and forgetfulness are just a few symptoms. They also have the tendency to lose things like keys or homework, and having difficulty working through tasks. They also struggle to sit still, and they can interfere with or even take over games or other activities.
It is important to assess the results of each drug carefully when you have a mixed presentation. Adults who have experienced this type of presentation since they were teens should be re-evaluated every six months, and especially if there are any lifestyle changes that may impact the amount of medication needed.
It is crucial to remember that ADD or ADHD does not affect race or ethnicity or gender, but it does seem to be more prevalent in those who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). Adults who present with various symptoms and cannot explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are many ways to treat and manage ADD in adults, such as behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication. 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 increase concentration by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. There are also non-stimulants available and are a good choice for adults who aren't keen on taking stimulants or require a lower dose.
Signs and symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulties completing tasks or difficulties sitting still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity may manifest as a lack of concentration, fidgeting or squirming. They often have a difficult time to stand in line or to follow instructions, leading to frustration and behavior that is contrary to the rules.
Adults who have a combination of ADHD symptoms also have difficulty recognizing social boundaries in a situation which can lead them to encroach on conversations or activities without considering how others might be feeling about it. They are more likely to have a difficult to organize their lives and are often overwhelmed by large-scale projects. In many cases, those with this ADHD presentation are also prone to depression or other mood disorders.
Making sure you have a clear diagnosis of ADHD is key to identifying the most effective treatment plan. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to seek assistance. However the diagnosis can empower them and provide them the tools needed to manage their symptoms.
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 be present prior to the age of 12 and persist for a minimum of six months to qualify as ADHD. Additionally the symptoms have to be severe enough to affect the person's performance at work, school or home.
Experts do not fully understand why ADHD is a common occurrence. However, they know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the chance of a person being diagnosed with the disorder. They also recognize that brain chemistry and variations in the structure of the brain are a factor and that some people suffer from the disorder without having an ancestry 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. In many cases, these treatments can be more effective than medications.