Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be challenging to diagnose and manage. Therapists can assist by examining the symptoms and their root causes, and then teaching the patient how to add structure and behavioral changes, and offering medication if needed.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD may have difficulties with hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. The symptoms could include memory loss, trouble waiting for their turn, and trouble concentrating on work or playing games.
Symptoms of Inattentive Type
The defining symptoms of this ADHD subtype are high levels of distraction and difficulty paying attention particulars. Adults with inattentive ADHD often find it hard to complete tasks or projects that require constant mental effort, such as writing, reading and completing homework. They may struggle to remember appointments or paying their bills and are susceptible to making impulsive errors in work 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. This means that the symptoms of inattentive ADHD can last throughout their adult lives and cause problems with relationships as well as school performance and career advancement.
Attention-deficit ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, difficulty being quiet or engaging in leisure activities, difficulties waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers before the questions are finished. They also have trouble staying organized at home and work and often arrive late for classes or meetings. People with inattention ADHD are often unable to stay focused at school or at work are bored at meetings and need to chew gum or sip coffee to get through them.
A health professional will assess the patient for any possible mental health issues or medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Then, they will examine their behavior to identify if they have ADD. This can involve talking to the person's parents, teachers and colleagues, and asking to see their behavior in various settings. The health professional will also inquire about the person's mood and recent medical background.
The most common medications for inattention ADHD are psychostimulants that improve the brain's signals and boost alertness. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are all examples of these medications. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain, are also sometimes prescribed to those suffering from inattentive ADHD to improve their mood and concentration. They could 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 work or school tasks, and may result in a number of mistakes made by careless people. They also have trouble following instructions or completing difficult tasks. They also struggle to stay on task when playing games or in leisure activities with other people. They often disrupt and interrupt other people during games, conversations 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. what is adult ADHD symptoms may struggle to control themselves and be constantly moving, unable even to slow down or stop at fairs or theme park. They may have difficulty managing tasks, completing long-term tasks or committing to homework or other planned activities.
They have a lack of a sense of responsibility and often struggle to form and maintain friendships. They may also have trouble managing their emotions, which can lead to mood swings and depression. They may also have difficulty managing their time and finances and can make them more susceptible to financial scams or other frauds.
Many people who suffer from ADHD don't get a diagnosis until they reach adulthood, when their issues become more apparent. Teachers and other adults could have missed their symptoms during their childhood. They could have reacted to their issues in a supportive atmosphere and flourished until they had to face the pressure of pursuing a job or raising a child when their issues became apparent. In the early years, the male-to-female* ADHD ratio is higher. However it becomes more equal when they reach adulthood.
Certain supplements in the diet can help reduce the irritability of people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA, taurine, GABA fish oil, and Brain Vitale. Stress management techniques such as deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They must discuss with their physician all options for treatment that include stimulants (Strattera) and 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 are unable to focus on long-term mental tasks or recalling important things, like schoolwork, homework, chores or work. They also make a lot of mistakes at school, in the workplace as well as in their personal lives. Attention and impulse control can lead to an abundance of stress and trouble in relationships.
Symptoms of this presentation often manifest at various times in the course of life, and they may vary from mild to severe. Daydreaming, being easily distracted and forgetfulness are just a few symptoms. They also include the tendency to lose items like keys or homework, and having difficulty following through with tasks. They also struggle to stay still, and they can disrupt or take over games or other activities.
Someone with a mixed presentation of ADHD may find that some medication helps while others don't. Therefore, it's best to try one a time and evaluate the outcomes carefully. Adults with this presentation who have been taking medication since the time they were teenagers should get a review of their treatment every 6 months, and in particular after any lifestyle changes that could alter the amount of medication needed.
It is important to remember that ADD and ADHD do not affect race or gender, ethnicity, or age. However it is believed that it will be more prevalent in those who were deemed male at birth. Adults who present with several symptoms and cannot explain them are usually 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 help to increase concentration by increasing the supply of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants can also be utilized by adults who don't want to use stimulants, or who only need them in a low dose.
The symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms can be apparent in the form of difficulty sitting still, forgetfulness or trouble finishing tasks and impulsivity, hyperactivity can show up as restlessness, fidgeting and squirming. They may also be able to blurt out answers without waiting for a full question. They may find it difficult to wait in line or to follow instructions, leading to frustration and a tendency to break the rules.
Adults who have a combination of ADHD symptoms are often having trouble understanding the social boundaries of a given situation, which can lead them to disrupt conversations or activities. They do this without considering how others may feel. They tend to have difficulty organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by large-scale projects. Many people suffering from this ADHD also have a previous history of mood disorders or depression.
A correct diagnosis is crucial to determine the best treatment plan. Although many adults with ADHD struggle to seek assistance, getting an accurate diagnosis can be a positive experience that provides them with the tools they need to manage their symptoms and live productive, satisfying 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. The symptoms must be present prior to the age of 12 and last for at least six months to be considered an ADHD diagnosis. In addition the symptoms must be severe enough to affect a person's performance at school, work or at home.
Experts don't fully understand why ADHD occurs, but they do know that it can be genetic and that certain genes increase the likelihood of developing the condition. They also know that differences in brain structure and brain chemistry play a part in the development of ADHD, and that some people are born with the disorder and have 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. In many cases, these treatments are more effective than medications.