Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults with attention deficit disorder are difficult to diagnose and treat. A therapist can help by examining symptoms and their causes, teaching patients ways to create structure and change their behavior and provide medication if required.
People with ADD/ADHD have problems with hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. Symptoms may include problems with forgetfulness, trouble waiting for their turn, and difficulty concentrating on tasks or playing games.
The Signs of Inattention Type
The defining symptoms of this ADHD subtype include high distraction and difficulty paying attention particulars. Adults with inattention ADHD frequently find it difficult to finish tasks or complete projects that require sustained concentration, such as writing, reading and completing homework. They may struggle to remember appointments or paying bills, and are prone to making careless mistakes in their work or 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. The issues they face can last into adulthood and affect their relationships, school performance and career advancement.
The symptoms of inattention ADHD include the habit of fidgeting with your hands or feet, difficulty taking part in leisure activities without interruption, trouble waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers before questions are answered. They also have trouble staying organized at home and work and often arrive late for classes or meetings. People with inattention ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused during work or school dislike boring meetings and need to chew gum or drink coffee to pass the time.
A health professional will examine the person for potential mental health issues or medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Then, they will analyze their behavior history to identify if they have ADD. This could involve speaking to the person's family, colleagues and teachers and asking about their behavior in different situations. The health professional may also ask about the person’s mood and recent medical history.
Psychostimulants are used to enhance alertness and streamline brain signals. 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 sometimes prescribed for people with inattentive ADHD to improve their mood and concentration. They may include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). adult ADHD symptoms quiz that aren't 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 condition can make it difficult for people to focus on their studies or work tasks, and may lead to careless mistakes. Additionally, they frequently have trouble following instructions or completing complex tasks. They also struggle to stay on track when playing games or engaging in leisure activities with other people. They often interrupt or intrude on other people during conversations, games or other activities and are eagerly awaiting their turn. They might play with their hands or feet or even squirm their seat, or pace while they're 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 struggle with self-control, and often be on the go, unable to stop or slow down, even if they are at events that are organized like fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulty managing tasks, completing long-term projects, or committing themselves to homework or other planned activities.
They often have a poor sense of their personal responsibility and experience difficulties making and maintaining friendships. They may also have issues controlling their emotions, which could result in mood swings and depression. They might also have issues managing their time and finances, which can make them more susceptible to financial scams and other fraudulent activities.
Many people who suffer from ADHD do not get a diagnosis until they reach adulthood, when their problems become more obvious. During childhood, they may have been missed by teachers or other adults who were unaware of their symptoms. They could have reacted to their symptoms in a safe environment and flourished until they were faced with the pressure of finding the job of their dreams or raising a child, which is when their issues became evident. The male-to-female* ratio of diagnosed ADHD is higher in childhood, however the proportions become more similar in adulthood.
People suffering from ADHD frequently discover that certain dietary supplements, like multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory, can help reduce anxiety and improve memory. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should talk to their doctor about all treatment options, including stimulants (Strattera) as well as non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (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 mind like schoolwork, chores, homework or work. They tend to make careless mistakes at work, school, and in personal life. Attention and impulse issues can cause stress and lead to relationship difficulties.
The signs of this disorder typically occur at various times throughout the day and range from mild to severe. They can be characterized by daydreaming and being easily distracted by their own thoughts, which can cause the tendency to lose things, like keys or homework; and difficulties following through on tasks. They also struggle to stay still, and they can interrupt or take over games or other leisure activities.
It is crucial to analyze the effects of each medication carefully when you have mixed presentation. Adults who have experienced this presentation since they were teens should have their treatment reviewed every six months, particularly if there are any changes in their lifestyle that could impact the amount of medication needed.
It is important to know that ADD and ADHD do not impact race, gender, ethnicity or age. However it does appear to be more prevalent in those who were deemed male at birth. The diagnosis is usually given when people are suffering from several of the typical symptoms in several aspects of their lives but can't explain them satisfactorily.
There are many ways to treat and manage ADD for adults, which includes 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 increase concentration by increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. There are also non-stimulants available and can be an excellent option for adults who don't want to take stimulants or require a lower dose.
Signs and symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. The signs of inattention could be apparent as a struggle to sit still, forgetfulness, or having trouble finishing tasks, while hyperactivity and impulsivity can show up as fidgeting, restlessness and squirming. They may also be able to blurt out answers without waiting for the complete question. They are unable to stay in line or follow directions. This can lead to frustration and rule-breaking behaviors.
Adults who suffer from a combination of ADHD symptoms are often having trouble understanding the social boundaries of a given situation which could cause them to interrupt conversations or activities. They do this without considering what others might think. They are often struggling organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by complex projects. In many cases, those with this ADHD display are also prone to depression or other mood disorders.
Getting a proper diagnosis of ADHD is key to identifying the most effective treatment plan. Many adults suffering from ADHD are hesitant to seek help. However, a 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 to age 12 and persist for at least six months to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis. The symptoms must also be severe enough to negatively impact the performance of a child at school, at work or at home.
Experts do not fully understand why ADHD is a common occurrence. However, they know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the risk of someone becoming affected. They also know that brain chemistry and variations in the structure of the brain are a factor and that some people have the disorder despite not having an ancestry 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 medication.