Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults with attention deficit disorder may be difficult to identify and treat. Therapists can assist by examining symptoms and their root causes, educating patients on how to structure their lives and change their behavior, and offering medication when required.
People with ADD/ADHD have problems with hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. Symptoms may include problems with memory loss, trouble waiting for their turn, and difficulties concentrating on tasks or playing games.
Symptoms of Inattentive Type
The defining symptoms of this ADHD subtype include high distraction and trouble paying attention to the small details. Adults with inattentive ADHD struggle to complete tasks or projects that require constant mental effort, such as reading and writing. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying bills and are prone to making careless mistakes at work or in their 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 cause problems with relationships as well as school performance and career advancement.
Inattention ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, difficulty engaging in leisure activities, difficulties waiting for their turn, and blurting answers when the questions are not finished. They also have difficulty staying organized at home and work, and are often late for classes or meetings. Those with inattentive ADHD are often unable to stay focused during work or school, despise boring meetings and need to chew gum or drink coffee to pass the time.
A health professional will evaluate a patient to determine if they have any mental health or medical conditions which could cause similar symptoms. Then, they'll examine their behavior history in order to determine if the patient has ADD. This can involve talking to the person's parents, colleagues and teachers and asking about their behavior in various settings. The health professional will also inquire about the person's mood as well as recent medical background.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for inattention ADHD are psychostimulants which improve signals sent to the brain and increase alertness. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates, such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are just a few examples of these medicines. Antidepressants, which affect neurotransmitters in the brain, are sometimes prescribed to those suffering from inattention ADHD to improve their mood and focus. They may include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant medications can also be utilized. 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. our source can make it difficult for people to focus on their schoolwork or job tasks, and can lead to careless mistakes. Additionally, they frequently have trouble following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have trouble staying focused when playing games or in activities of leisure with others. They frequently interrupt or interfere on others during conversations or games and can't wait for their turn. They might fiddle with their feet or hands, squirm in their seat or walk around 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 may struggle to control their own behavior and be constantly moving and are unable to slow down or stop during events such as fairs or a theme park. They may have difficulties organizing tasks, completing long-term projects or applying themselves to schoolwork or other structured activities.
They have a lack of a sense of responsibility and often struggle to form and maintain friendships. They may also have issues managing their emotions, which could cause mood swings and depression. They might also have issues managing their time and finances, which can make them more susceptible to financial scams or other frauds.
Many people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until adulthood, when their symptoms become more apparent. Teachers and other adults could have missed their symptoms throughout their childhood. They may have learned to compensate for their symptoms and thrived in a supportive environment until they had to face the stress of working or having a family when their problems were more evident. The male-to-female ratio of diagnosed ADHD is higher in childhood, but the rate becomes more similar in adulthood.
Certain supplements in the diet can help reduce irritability in people with ADHD. These include GABA and taurine, GABA fish oil, and Brain Vitale. Techniques for managing stress, such as deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss all treatments with their health care provider including non-stimulants and stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Mixed Type Symptoms
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They are unable to focus on long-term mental activities or remembering things, such as chores, schoolwork, homework or work. They also tend to make careless mistakes at school, in the workplace and in their private lives. The issues with attention and impulse control can lead to a lot of stress and tension in relationships.
The symptoms of this disorder can be varied in severity and can manifest at different stages of life. They can be characterized by daydreaming and being easily distracted from their own thoughts, which can lead to the tendency to lose things, such as keys or homework and having trouble focusing on tasks. They may also have difficulty sitting still and interfere with leisure activities or games.
Someone with a mixed presentation of ADHD might find that certain medications help and others don't. It's best to try one each time and analyze the outcomes carefully. Adults who have experienced this condition since they were teenagers should have their treatment evaluated every six months, particularly if there are any changes in their lifestyle that could impact the amount of medication required.
It is important to know that ADD and ADHD do not impact race or gender, ethnicity, or age. However, it does appear to affect more people who were categorized as male at birth. Adults who show a number of symptoms but are unable to explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are several ways to deal with ADD among adults, including 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 increase concentration by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also readily available and are an ideal choice for those who aren't keen on taking stimulants or need them at less of a dose.
The symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms can include forgetfulness, difficulty finishing tasks or having difficulty staying still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting, or squirming. They often 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 suffer from a combination of ADHD symptoms often have difficulty understanding the social boundaries of the context of a particular situation which could cause them to disrupt conversations or activities. They do this without considering how others may feel. They are often struggling organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by the complexity of projects. Many people with this ADHD also have a previous history of mood disorders or depression.
A proper diagnosis of ADHD is key to identifying the most effective treatment strategy. Many adults suffering from ADHD are hesitant to seek help. However an accurate diagnosis can empower them and give 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. Additionally the symptoms must be severe enough to reduce a person's performance at school, work or at home.
Experts aren't entirely sure the reason ADHD is a common occurrence. However, they are aware that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the likelihood of becoming affected. They also know that brain chemistry and variations in the structure of the brain can play a role in the development of the disorder, and that some individuals 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 instances, these therapies are more effective than medication.