Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults with attention deficit disorder are difficult to diagnose and treat. Therapists can assist by examining the signs and root causes, and then teaching the patient how to build structure, make behavioural modifications and provide medication if needed.
People with ADD/ADHD may have issues with hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. The symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty waiting for their turn, or difficulties concentrating on games or tasks.
Inattention Type Symptoms
The defining symptoms of this ADHD subtype are high distractibility and trouble paying attention to particulars. Adults who have inattention ADHD often find it hard to finish tasks or complete projects that require constant mental effort, like writing, reading and completing homework. They may have trouble remembering appointments or paying bills and are prone to making careless mistakes at work or in their 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. This means that their problems may persist throughout their adult lives and cause problems with relationships as well as school performance and career advancement.
Symptoms of inattentive ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands or feet, difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly, trouble waiting for their turn, and answering questions in a hurry before they are answered. They are also often late to classes or meetings and have difficulty staying organized. Inattentive ADHD sufferers often have trouble staying focused at school or at work. They don't like boring meetings and prefer to chew gum or drink coffee to help them through.
A health professional will examine the person for possible mental health or medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Then, they will use their behavioral history to identify if they have ADD. You can request to observe the person's behavior in various situations by speaking to their parents or teachers as well as their coworkers. The health care provider may also ask about the person’s mood and their recent medical history.
Most commonly, psychostimulants are used to increase alertness and streamline brain signals. These include amphetamines such as Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine). Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain, are sometimes prescribed for people with inattentive ADHD to help improve their mood and focus. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Non-stimulant drugs 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 symptom makes it difficult for them to concentrate on their work or schoolwork and may result in careless errors. In addition, they typically struggle to follow instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have trouble staying on task while playing games or participating in leisure activities. They often interrupt or intrude on conversations or games and can't wait for their turn. They might fiddle or squirm with their hands or feet or squirm in their seats or pacing as they listen or talk.
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 may have difficulty controlling themselves and are constantly moving, unable even to slow down or stop, even during events such as fairs or a theme parks. They may have trouble organizing tasks, working on projects for a long period of time, or focusing on structured activities or homework.
They have a lack of a sense of responsibility and often struggle to form and maintain friendships. They may also have difficulty controlling their emotions, which could result in mood swings and severe depression. They may also be having difficulty managing their finances and time and this can make it easier for them to fall victim to financial scams.
Many people who suffer from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood, when their symptoms become more obvious. Teachers and other adults could have missed their symptoms throughout the early years of their lives. They may have adapted to manage their symptoms and thrived in a supportive environment until they encountered the stress of pursuing a career or having a family as their issues were more evident. The male-to-female ratio of diagnosed ADHD is significantly higher in childhood, but the ratio becomes more comparable as they reach adulthood.
Certain supplements in the diet can help reduce irritability in people with ADHD. These include GABA, taurine, GABA fish oil and Brain Vitale. They may also benefit from stress management strategies, such as regular exercise and deep breathing. They should discuss all treatment options with their health care provider, including stimulants and non-stimulants such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Mixed Type symptoms
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They are unable to focus on tasks that require mental effort for a long period of time or causing things to stick in their heads, such as schoolwork or homework, chores or work. They also make careless mistakes at school, in the workplace and in their private lives. Attention and impulse issues can create a lot of stress and lead to problems in relationships.
The symptoms of this disorder can vary in severity and appear at different stages of life. They may include daydreaming and becoming easily distracted from their thoughts, which can lead to the tendency to lose things like keys or homework; and difficulties following through on their tasks. They may also have difficulty sitting still and interrupt or take over their leisure activities or games.
Someone with a mixed presentation of ADHD might find that certain medications help and others don't. Therefore, it's recommended to test one at an time and then evaluate the results carefully. Adults who have had this presentation since they were teenagers should have their treatment evaluated every six months, and especially when there are any lifestyle changes that may impact the amount of medication required.
It is crucial to remember that ADD or ADHD does not affect race or ethnicity or gender, although it may affect more people who are assigned males at birth (AMAB). Adults who exhibit various symptoms that are not explained are typically diagnosed.
There are hyperlink to treat and manage ADD in adults, such as behavior therapy, lifestyle modifications and medications. 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 boost concentration by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also available, and these can be an excellent option for adults who aren't keen on taking stimulants or require them at lower doses.
The symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms can include forgetfulness, difficulties completing tasks or having difficulty staying still. Impulsivity and hyperactivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming. They may find it difficult to wait 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 often have difficulty understanding the social boundaries of an environment which could cause them to disrupt conversations or activities. They do this without considering how others may feel. They are often struggling 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.
Making sure you have a clear diagnosis of ADHD is key to identifying the most effective treatment plan. Many adults with ADHD are hesitant to seek help. However an accurate 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. The symptoms must be present prior the age of 12 and last for at least six months in order to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis. The symptoms must be severe enough to affect a person's performance in the workplace, at school or at home.
Experts aren't sure the reason ADHD is a common occurrence. However, they do know that it is inherited and certain genes increase the risk of someone being diagnosed with the disorder. They also know that differences in brain structure and the brain's chemical makeup play a role in the development of ADHD, and that some people develop the disorder spontaneously 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. In many instances, these therapies are more effective than medications.