Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to diagnose and manage. Therapists can help by analyzing the symptoms and their root causes, and then teaching the patient how to add structure and behavioral changes, and offering medication if needed.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD may have difficulties 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 difficulties in focusing on tasks or games.
Signs of Inattentive Type
The most prominent symptoms of this ADHD subtype are high levels of distraction and trouble paying attention to particulars. Adults with inattentive ADHD struggle to complete tasks or projects that require sustained mental efforts, such as reading and writing. They may have trouble 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. The issues they face can last into adulthood and affect their relationships, school performance and their career progression.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, having trouble engaging in leisure activities, problems waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers before the questions are finished. They also have difficulty staying organized at home and at work and are often late for classes or meetings. Inattentive ADHD sufferers often have trouble staying focused at work or school. They dislike boring meetings and chew gum or drink coffee to help them through.
A health care provider will evaluate a patient to determine if they have any medical or mental illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. Then, they will use their behavioral history to determine if the patient is suffering from ADD. This may involve speaking with the person's family members, teachers and colleagues and asking to see their behavior in different settings. The health care provider will also inquire about the person's mood and recent medical background.
The most commonly prescribed medications for inattentive ADHD are psychostimulants that streamline 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 that alter neurotransmitters inside the brain can be prescribed to those with inattentive ADHD in order to enhance their mood and improve their concentration. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Other medications that aren't stimulants can 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 can make it difficult for people to concentrate on their work or school tasks, and may lead to careless mistakes. They also have trouble following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also struggle to stay on task while playing games or participating in leisure activities. They often disrupt and interrupt other people during games, conversations or other activities. They may fiddle or squirm with their hands or feet or squirm in their chairs or pacing as 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 struggle with self-control and can often be on the go, unable to stop or slow down, even when they're attending organized events like fairs and theme parks. They may have trouble organizing tasks, working on projects over a long time or applying themselves to routine tasks or assignments.
They usually have a weak sense of their personal responsibility and experience difficulties creating and maintaining relationships. They may also have issues managing their emotions, which can lead to mood swings and severe depression. They may also have difficulty managing their time and finances and this can make it easier for them to fall victim to scams in the financial industry.
Many people with ADHD do not be diagnosed until the age of adulthood, when their problems become more apparent. During childhood, they may have been missed by teachers or other adults who weren't aware of their problems. They might have learned to cope with their symptoms and thrived in a nurturing environment until they encountered the stresses of working or raising a family as their issues became more evident. The male-to-female ratio of diagnosed ADHD is much higher in childhood, however the rate becomes more similar in adulthood.
Certain dietary supplements can reduce irritability in people with ADHD. These include GABA, taurine, GABA fish oil, and Brain Vitale. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss all treatments with their health care provider which includes stimulants and non-stimulants such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Mixed Type symptoms
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have difficulty staying focused on tasks that require a lot of mental effort for a long time or causing things to stick in their heads for example, schoolwork chores, homework or work. They are prone to making careless mistakes at work, school as well as in their personal lives. Attention and control of impulses can cause lots of stress and difficulty in relationships.
The signs of this disorder typically manifest at various times throughout the day and can range from mild to severe. They can be characterized by daydreaming and being easily distracted from their thoughts, which may lead to an inability to remember things; a tendency lose things like homework or keys and difficulty focusing on their tasks. They may also have a difficult time sitting still and interrupt or take over leisure activities or games.
Someone with a mixed presentation of ADHD may find that some medications are helpful while others don't. It's best to try one an time and then evaluate the results carefully. Adults who have experienced this condition since the time they were teenagers should have their treatment reviewed every six months, and especially when there are any changes in their lifestyle that could alter the dosage of medication required.
It is important to keep in mind that ADD or ADHD doesn't affect race or ethnicity, nor gender, but it may be more prevalent in those who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). Adults who show a number of symptoms that are not explained are typically diagnosed.
There are several methods to treat ADD for adults, such as 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 improve concentration by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also available and can be an excellent option for adults who do not want to take 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 having difficulty sitting still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity can manifest as a lack of concentration, fidgeting or squirming. ADHD symptoms in adults females find it difficult to wait in line or follow instructions, which can result in frustration and behavior that is contrary to the rules.
Adults who suffer from a combination of ADHD symptoms usually have trouble understanding social boundaries in an environment which could cause them to interrupt conversations or activities. They do this without thinking about the feelings of others. They are more likely to have a difficult to organize their lives and are often overwhelmed by complicated projects. In many cases, those with this ADHD display also have a history of depression or other mood disorders.
A proper diagnosis is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan. Many adults with ADHD are hesitant to seek help. However the diagnosis can empower them and give 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. These symptoms must be present prior to the age of 12 and last for a minimum of six months to qualify as ADHD. The symptoms must be severe enough to impact the student's performance at school, at work or at home.
Experts aren't entirely sure why ADHD occurs. However, they do know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the risk of a person becoming affected. They also recognize that brain chemistry and variations in the structure of the brain are a factor and that some people suffer from the disorder without 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. These treatments are typically more effective than prescription medications.