Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults suffering from 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 add structure and behavioural changes, and offering medication when needed.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD may have difficulties with hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. Symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty waiting for their turn, or difficulties in focusing on tasks or games.
Signs of Inattentive Type
This type of ADHD is characterized by high distractibility, and a lack of focus on tiny details. Adults who are inattentive ADHD have difficulty completing tasks or projects that require continuous mental effort, such as writing and reading. They may struggle to remember appointments or paying their bills and are more likely to make careless errors in 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. The issues they face can last into adulthood, affecting their relationships, school performance, and career advancement.
The symptoms of inattention ADHD include the habit of fidgeting with your hands or feet, difficulties playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly as well as difficulty waiting for their turn, and answering questions before they are answered. They are also often late to meetings or classes and struggle to stay organized. Inattention ADHD sufferers often have trouble staying focused at school or at work. They are not a fan of boring meetings and chew gum or drink coffee to help them through.
A health professional will assess a person to determine if there are any medical or mental conditions which could cause similar symptoms. Then, they'll use their behavioral history in order to determine if the patient is suffering from ADD. This may involve speaking with the person's parents, teachers and colleagues and asking to see their behavior in different situations. The health care provider may also ask about the person’s mood and recent medical history.
Most commonly, psychostimulants are used to increase alertness and boost brain signals. They include amphetamines, such as Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta and methylphenidates, such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine). Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain are often prescribed to people suffering from inattention ADHD in order to improve their mood and focus. They can include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Other drugs that are not stimulants are also available. 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 for them to concentrate on work or school assignments and could lead to unintentional mistakes. Additionally, they frequently have trouble following instructions or performing complex tasks. They also have trouble staying on task while playing games or taking part in leisure activities. adult ADHD symptoms interrupt or interfere on others during conversations, games or other activities and can't wait for their turn. They might squirm or fiddle with their feet or hands or squirm or move in their chairs 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 struggle with self-control, and frequently be in a hurry, unable to stop or slow down, even if they're attending organized events like fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulties organizing tasks, completing long-term tasks or committing to homework or other planned activities.
They have a low sense of accountability and often have difficulty making and keeping friendships. They may also have issues managing their emotions, which could result in mood swings and severe depression. ADHD symptoms in adult women may also have difficulty managing their finances and time, which can make them more susceptible to financial scams and other fraudulent activities.
Many people who suffer from ADHD do not receive a diagnosis until adulthood, when their issues become more obvious. In their early years, they could be overlooked by teachers or other adults who were unaware of their symptoms. They could have reacted to their symptoms in a supportive atmosphere and flourished until they had to face the pressure of pursuing a job or raising a child, which is when their issues became evident. In the beginning, 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 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 treatment options, including stimulants (Strattera), 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 staying focused on tasks that require mental effort for long periods of time or causing things to stay in their heads for example, schoolwork homework, chores, or work. They tend to make careless mistakes in school, at work as well as in their personal lives. Attention and control of impulses can cause an abundance of stress and trouble in relationships.
The symptoms of this disorder are varied in severity and can manifest at different times in life. Daydreaming, being easily distracted, and forgetfulness are all signs. They also include the tendency to lose things like homework or keys, and having difficulty keeping track of tasks. They may also have a difficult time being still, and can interrupt or take over the activities of leisure or games.
It is crucial to analyze the effects of each medication carefully when you have a mixed presentation. Adults with this presentation who have been taking medications since the time they were teenagers should be able to review their treatment every six months, and in particular after any changes in lifestyle that could alter the dosage of medication required.
It is important to note that ADD and ADHD do not affect race gender, ethnicity, gender or age. However, it does appear to affect people who were deemed male at birth. Adults who show a number of symptoms and cannot explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are many methods to manage and treat ADD in adults, such as behavior therapy, lifestyle modifications, 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 boost concentration by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also readily available and can be a good choice for adults who aren't keen on taking stimulants or require a lower dose.
The symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty finishing tasks or difficulties sitting still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting, or squirming. They may find it difficult to stand in line or to follow instructions, which can result in frustration and behavior that is contrary to the rules.
Adults who suffer from a combination of ADHD symptoms also often have difficulty recognizing social boundaries in a situation and can be seen to intrude on conversations or activities without thinking about how others feel about it. They are more likely to have a difficult working with organizational strategies and tend to be overwhelmed by complicated projects. In many cases, those with this ADHD display may also be suffering from depression or other mood disorders.
Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD is crucial to determining the most effective treatment strategy. While many people with ADHD struggle to reach out for assistance, obtaining a diagnosis can be an empowering experience that gives them the tools they need to manage their symptoms and lead productive, fulfilling 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. These symptoms must be present before the age of 12 and last for at least six months to qualify as ADHD. In addition the symptoms have to be severe enough to hinder the performance of a child at school, work or home.
Experts don't fully understand why ADHD occurs, but they know that it can be genetic and that certain genes can increase a person's risk of developing the disorder. They also know that brain chemistry and variations in the structure of the brain play a part, and that some people have the disorder despite not having a 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 treatments can be more effective than medications.