Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults suffering from attention deficit disorder may be difficult to identify and treat. Therapists can assist by analyzing the signs and root causes, and then teaching the patient how to structure their lives, make behavioural modifications and offer medication when needed.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD have issues with inattention, hyperactivity, and an impulsiveness. Some of the symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty waiting for their turn and difficulty concentrating on tasks or playing games.
Inattention Type symptoms
The most obvious signs of this ADHD subtype are high levels of distraction and difficulty paying attention particulars. Adults with inattention ADHD often find it hard to complete tasks or projects that require constant concentration, such as writing, reading or doing homework. They may struggle to remember appointments or paying bills and are more prone to making naive 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. In the end, their problems may persist throughout their adult lives, and may cause issues with relationships, school performance, and career advancement.
The signs of inattention ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands and feet, having difficulty engaging in leisure activities at a relaxed pace, trouble waiting for their turn, and answering questions before they are finished. They also struggle to stay organized at home and at work and are often late for classes or meetings. People with inattention ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused during work or school, despise boring meetings and have to chew gum or sip coffee to pass the time.
A health professional will assess a person to determine if they have any mental health or medical conditions which could cause similar symptoms. Then, they will analyze their behavior in order to determine if the patient has ADD. You can request to observe the person's behavior in different situations by speaking to their parents as well as teachers and colleagues. The health professional will also ask about the person's mood as well as recent medical background.
Most commonly, psychostimulants are used to increase alertness and streamline brain signals. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates, such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are just a few examples of these medications. Antidepressants that alter neurotransmitters inside the brain can be prescribed to those with inattentive ADHD in order to improve their mood and concentration. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Other medications 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 makes it difficult for them to concentrate on schoolwork or work tasks and can lead to careless errors. In addition, they typically struggle to follow instructions or performing complex tasks. They also struggle to stay on track when playing games or in activities of leisure with others. They frequently interrupt or interfere on other people during conversations, games or other activities and can't wait for their turn. They might squirm or fiddle using their hands or feet or squirm or move in their seats, or pacing while 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 and are unable to slow down or stop, even at events like fairs or theme park. They may have difficulty managing tasks, finishing long-term projects or applying themselves to schoolwork or other structured activities.
They usually have a weak sense of personal responsibility and have difficulties making and keeping friends. They may also have difficulties regulating their emotions which can lead them to mood swings or depression. They may also have trouble managing their finances and time, which can make it easier for them to fall prey to financial scams.
Many people suffering from ADHD don't receive a diagnosis until adulthood, when their issues become more obvious. During childhood, they may have been missed by teachers or other adults who were unaware of their issues. They may have adapted to compensate for their symptoms and thrived in a supportive environment until they encountered the stresses of working or having a family as their issues became more evident. In the early years, the male-to-female* ADHD ratio is higher. However, it becomes more equal when they reach adulthood.
People with ADHD often find that certain nutritional supplements, like multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory, can help reduce irritability and improve memory. They can also benefit from techniques for managing stress that include regular exercise and deep breathing. They must discuss with their physician all options for treatment, including stimulants (Strattera) as well as non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (Wellbutrin).
Signs of Mixed Type
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have trouble focusing on long-term mental activities or remembering things like homework, schoolwork, chores or work. They tend to make impulsive mistakes in school, at work and even in their personal life. Attention and impulse issues can create a lot of stress and lead to difficulties in relationships.
The symptoms of this condition can be varied in severity and manifest at various stages of life. The ability to be easily distracted, daydreaming, and forgetfulness are all symptoms. They also include a tendency to misplace things like keys or homework, and having difficulty working through tasks. They also struggle to sit still, and they can interrupt or take over games or other activities.
Someone with a mixed presentation of ADHD may find that certain medications help and others don't. Therefore, it's recommended to test one at each time and analyze the outcomes carefully. Adults who have this presentation and have been taking medication since they were teens should have a look at 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 remember that ADD or ADHD does not affect race or ethnicity or gender, though it is believed to be more prevalent in those who are assigned male at birth (AMAB). Adults who exhibit various symptoms but are unable to explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are several methods to treat ADD in adults, which include lifestyle changes, medication 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 boost concentration by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. There are also non-stimulants available and are an ideal choice for those who don't want to take stimulants or require them at a lower dose.
Signs and symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Symptoms of inattention may be apparent as a struggle to sit still, forgetfulness or difficulty finishing tasks and impulsivity, hyperactivity can show up as a lack of concentration, fidgeting or squirming, or blurting out answers without waiting for a full question. They often find it difficult to stay in line or to follow instructions, leading to frustration and a tendency to break the rules.
Adults who suffer from a combination of ADHD symptoms also have difficulty recognizing social boundaries in a situation which can lead them to encroach on activities or conversations without thinking about how others be feeling about it. They often have trouble organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by the complexity of projects. Many people suffering from this ADHD also have a previous history of depression or mood disorders.
A proper diagnosis of ADHD is key to identifying the most effective treatment strategy. While ADHD symptoms in adulthood who have ADHD struggle to seek assistance, obtaining an accurate diagnosis can be a inspiring experience that provides them with the tools they require to manage their symptoms and live productive, satisfying 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 in order to be considered an ADHD diagnosis. The symptoms must also be severe enough to impact a person's performance in school, at work or at home.
Experts don't fully understand why ADHD is a problem but they know that it can be genetic and that certain genes can increase a person's risk of developing the condition. They also know that brain chemistry and differences in brain structure play a part in the development of the disorder, and that some individuals suffer from the disorder without 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. These treatments are often more effective than medications.