Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults with attention deficit disorder are difficult to diagnose and treat. Therapists can assist by examining symptoms and their reasons, and educating patients on how to structure their lives and make behavioural changes and provide medication if required.
People with ADD/ADHD may have issues with hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. Symptoms may include problems with forgetfulness, trouble waiting for their turn, and difficulty concentrating on tasks or playing games.
Inattentive Type Signs
The defining symptoms of this ADHD subtype are high distractibility and trouble paying attention to the small details. Adults with inattentive ADHD struggle to complete tasks or projects that require continuous mental effort, like writing and reading. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying bills, and are more likely to make impulsive mistakes in their daily or personal 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. As a result, the symptoms of inattentive ADHD can last throughout their adult lives and interfere with relationships, school performance and career advancement.
adult ADHD symptoms of inattention ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands or feet, having difficulty playing or taking part in leisure activities without interruption, trouble waiting for their turn and answering questions in a hurry before they are completed. They also have trouble staying well-organized at home and at work and are often late for classes or meetings. Inattention ADHD sufferers often have trouble staying focused at work or school. They don't like boring meetings and often chew gum or drink coffee to get them through.
A health professional will assess a person to determine if there are any medical or mental illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. Then, they'll use their behavioral history to determine if the patient is suffering from ADD. This could involve speaking to the person's family members, teachers and colleagues, and asking about their behavior in various settings. The health care provider will also inquire about the person's mood as well as recent medical history.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for inattention ADHD are psychostimulants that improve the brain's signals and boost alertness. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates, such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are a few examples of these drugs. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain, are also sometimes prescribed to those suffering from inattention ADHD to help improve their mood and focus. They may include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant drugs may 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 is a problem to focus on their work or schoolwork and can lead to careless mistakes. Additionally, they frequently have trouble following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have difficulty staying focused when playing games or engaging in leisure activities with others. They often interrupt or intrude on conversations or games and can't wait for their turn. They may fiddle or squirm using their hands or feet or squirm in their seats or pacing while they talk or listen.
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 often be on the go, unable to stop or slow down, even if they're at organized events such as fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulty with organizing tasks, completing projects over a long time, or focusing on routine tasks or assignments.
They lack a sense of responsibility and often have a difficult time forming and maintaining friendships. They may also have difficulties controlling their emotions, which could cause mood swings or depression. They may also have trouble managing their time and finances, which can make them more vulnerable to financial scams or other fraudulent activities.
Many people with ADHD do not be diagnosed until the age of adulthood, when their issues become more apparent. As children, they might have been overlooked by teachers or other adults who were unaware of their issues. They may have compensated for their symptoms in a supportive atmosphere and flourished until they were confronted with the pressure of pursuing a job or raising a child when their issues became apparent. The male-to-female ratio of diagnosed ADHD is higher in childhood, but the proportions become more similar as they reach adulthood.
Certain dietary supplements can reduce irritability for people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA and taurine, GABA fish oil and Brain Vitale. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They must discuss with their physician all options for treatment including stimulants (Strattera) as well as non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (Wellbutrin).
Mixed Type Symptoms
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have trouble focusing on long-term mental tasks, or recalling important things, like chores, schoolwork, homework or work. They tend to make careless mistakes at work, school as well as in their personal lives. These attention and impulse problems can cause stress and can lead to problems in relationships.
The symptoms of this condition can vary in severity and manifest at different times in life. Daydreaming, being easily distracted, and forgetfulness are all symptoms. They also include a tendency to misplace things like keys or homework and a difficulty in working through tasks. They may also have a difficult time being still, and can disrupt or take over the activities of leisure or games.
Someone who has a mixed manifestation of ADHD may find that some medication helps while others don't. It's wise to try one at each time and analyze the results carefully. Adults who have this presentation and have been taking medication since the age of a teenager should have a look at their treatment every six months, and in particular when they make any changes to their lifestyle that could alter the dosage of medication required.
It is crucial to remember that ADD or ADHD doesn't affect race, ethnicity, or gender, although it is believed to be more prevalent in those who are assigned males at birth (AMAB). Adults who show several symptoms and cannot explain them are usually diagnosed.
There are several ways to deal with 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 assist in increasing concentration by increasing the availability of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain. Non-stimulants are also used by adults who do not wish to take stimulants, or require them in a small dosage.
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, difficulty completing tasks, or having trouble being still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting, or squirming. They find it hard to stay in line or follow instructions. This can lead 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, leading them to intrude into conversations or activities without considering how others might feel about it. They are more likely to have a difficult working with organizational strategies and tend to be overwhelmed easily by complex projects. Many people with this ADHD also have a history of depression or mood disorders.
A correct diagnosis is crucial to determine the most effective treatment plan. Many adults suffering from ADHD are reluctant to seek assistance. However, a diagnosis can empower them and provide them the tools 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. In addition the symptoms must be severe enough to hinder the performance of a child at school, work or at home.
Experts don't fully understand why ADHD occurs but they are aware that it could be inherited and that certain genes can increase the risk of developing the condition. They also recognize that brain chemistry and differences in brain structure play a part and that some people get the disorder without any 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 treatments are often more effective than prescription medications.