Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults suffering from attention deficit disorder are difficult to identify and treat. Therapists can assist by analyzing the symptoms and their root causes, and then teaching the patient how to add structure, make behavioural modifications and provide medication if necessary.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD have issues with hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. It is evident by the lack of memory and difficulty in waiting for their turn, or having difficulty in focusing on tasks or games.
Inattentive Type Signs
This type of ADHD is characterized by high distractibility, and difficulty paying attention to the smallest details. Adults who have inattention ADHD typically have difficulty to finish tasks or complete projects that require constant mental effort, like writing, reading and completing homework. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying their bills, and are susceptible to making impulsive mistakes at 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, the symptoms of inattentive ADHD can last throughout their adult lives, and may cause issues with relationships, school performance, and career advancement.
The signs of inattention ADHD include the habit of fidgeting with your hands or feet, having difficulty engaging in leisure activities at a relaxed pace as well as difficulty waiting for their turn, and answering questions before they are finished. They also are often late to meetings or classes and are unable to stay organized. Inattentive ADHD sufferers often have trouble staying focused at work or school. They are not a fan of boring meetings and chew gum or drink coffee to help them through.
A health professional will evaluate a patient to determine if there are any medical or mental conditions which could cause similar symptoms. Then, they will use their behavioral history to determine if a person has ADD. This could involve speaking to the person's family members, teachers and colleagues, and asking about their behavior in various settings. The health professional will also inquire about the person's mood and recent medical background.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for inattention ADHD are psychostimulants which improve signals sent to the brain and boost alertness. These include amphetamines such as Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine). Antidepressants, which affect neurotransmitters in the brain, are often prescribed to people suffering from inattentive ADHD to help improve their mood and concentration. 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 symptom makes it difficult for them to concentrate on their work or schoolwork and could lead to unintentional errors. They also have trouble following directions or completing complex tasks. They also struggle to stay on task while playing games or engaging in leisure activities. They frequently interrupt or interfere on others during conversations, games or other activities and are eagerly awaiting their turn. They may fiddle with their feet or hands or squirm in their seats 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 are unable to slow down or slow down, even when they're at organized events such as fairs or theme parks. They may struggle with managing tasks, completing projects over a long period of time, or working on routine tasks or assignments.
They have a low sense of responsibility and frequently struggle to form and maintain friendships. They may also have difficulty regulating their emotions which can result in mood swings or severe depression. They may also be having difficulty managing their time and finances and this can make it easier for them to fall prey to scams in the financial industry.
Many people with ADHD don't get a diagnosis until they reach adulthood, when their problems become more apparent. Teachers or other adults might have missed their symptoms throughout childhood. They could have reacted to their symptoms in a supportive atmosphere and flourished until they had to face the stress of pursuing a job or raising a child when their issues became apparent. The male-to-female ratio of diagnosed ADHD is much higher in childhood, but the rate becomes more similar in adulthood.
Certain supplements in the diet can help reduce irritability for people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA and taurine, GABA fish oil and Brain Vitale. Stress management techniques such as deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss all treatment options with their physician, including stimulants and non-stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Mixed Type Signs and symptoms
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have trouble staying focused on tasks that require mental effort for long periods of time or causing things to stick in their minds like schoolwork, chores, homework, or work. They tend to make careless mistakes in school, at work and even in their personal life. Attention and impulse issues can cause stress and lead to problems in relationships.
The symptoms of this condition can vary in severity and can manifest at different stages of life. what is ADHD symptoms in adults include daydreaming and being easily distracted by their own thoughts, which can lead to an inability to remember things; a tendency lose things, such as keys or homework; and difficulties following through on their 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 some medications help and others don't, so it's best to try one a time and evaluate the outcomes carefully. Adults with this type of presentation who have been taking medications since the time they were teenagers should be able to review their treatment every 6 months, and especially after any lifestyle changes that may alter the dosage of medication needed.
It is crucial to remember that ADD or ADHD doesn't affect race, ethnicity, or gender, though it may affect more people who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). Adults who show several symptoms that are not explained are usually diagnosed.
There are many ways to treat and manage ADD for adults, which includes lifestyle modification, behavior therapy, 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 norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Non-stimulants can also be used by adults who don't want to take stimulants, or require them in a lower dosage.
Signs and symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms can be apparent as a struggle to sit still, forgetfulness or trouble finishing tasks and impulsivity, hyperactivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming, or blurting out answers without waiting for a complete question. They may find it difficult to wait in line or to follow instructions, which can result in frustration and a tendency to break the rules.
Adults who have a combination of ADHD symptoms also have difficulties recognizing social boundaries within their environment which can lead them to encroach on conversations or activities without considering how others might feel about it. They are often struggling organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by complex projects. In many cases, people with this ADHD display are also prone to depression or other mood disorders.
A clear diagnosis is crucial to determine the best treatment plan. Many people suffering from ADHD are hesitant to seek help. However the 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 have been present prior to the age of 12 and continue for at least six months to qualify as ADHD. In addition the symptoms have to be severe enough to affect the performance of a child at work, school or home.
Experts aren't entirely sure why ADHD is a common occurrence. However, they know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the likelihood of someone being diagnosed with the disorder. They also know that brain structure and brain chemistry play a part 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. These treatments are typically more effective than prescription medications.