Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults suffering from attention deficit disorder are difficult to identify and treat. A therapist can help by examining the symptoms and their root causes, educating patients on how to structure their lives and change their behavior, and offering medication when required.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD have issues with hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsiveness. Symptoms may include problems with memory loss, trouble waiting for their turn and trouble concentrating on work or playing games.
Inattention Type Signs
The most obvious signs of this ADHD subtype are high distractibility and difficulty paying attention the small details. Adults with inattention 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 bills, and are more likely to make impulsive 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 issues can persist throughout their adult lives and interfere with relationships as well as school performance and career advancement.
Inattention ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, difficulty being quiet or engaging in leisure activities, problems waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers before the questions are completed. They also tend to be late to meetings or classes and have difficulty staying organized. Inattention ADHD sufferers often have difficulty staying focused at school or at work. They dislike boring meetings and chew gum or drink coffee to help them through.
A health care provider will examine the person for possible mental health or medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms and then use their behavioral history to identify if they have ADD. This can involve talking to the person's family, teachers and colleagues and asking them to observe their behavior in various settings. The health care provider will also inquire about the person's mood and recent medical history.
Most commonly, psychostimulants are used to boost alertness and improve brain signals. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are a few examples of these medications. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters in the brain are sometimes prescribed to those with inattentive ADHD in order to improve their mood and concentration. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. 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. what are ADHD symptoms in adults makes it difficult for them to concentrate on work or school assignments and could lead to unintentional mistakes. In addition, they typically have trouble following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have difficulty staying focused when playing games or in leisure activities with others. They can be disruptive and interrupt others during games, conversations or other activities. They may fiddle or squirm with their feet or hands, squirm or pace in their chairs, 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 be unable to control themselves and are constantly moving, unable even to slow down or stop, even at events like fairs or theme parks. They may struggle with managing tasks, completing projects for a long period of time, or working on structured activities or homework.
They have a lack of a sense of responsibility and frequently struggle to form and maintain friendships. They may also have difficulties managing their emotions, which can result in mood swings or depression. They may also have trouble managing their time and finances which could make it easier for them to fall prey to frauds in the financial sector.
Many people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until adulthood, when their symptoms become more evident. Teachers or other adults might have missed their symptoms during the early years of their lives. They may have sought to alleviate their symptoms in a safe environment and flourished until they were faced with the pressure of finding an occupation or raising a child when their problems became apparent. In the beginning, the male-to female* ADHD ratio is higher. However it becomes more equal as they grow older.
Certain nutritional supplements can help reduce the irritability of people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA, taurine, GABA fish oil and Brain Vitale. They may also benefit from techniques for managing stress like regular exercises and deep breathing. They should discuss all treatments with their health care provider, including 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 are unable to focus on long-term mental activities or recalling important things, like schoolwork, homework, chores or work. They also make mistakes in school, at work as well as in their personal lives. The issues with attention and control of impulses can cause an abundance of stress and tension in relationships.
The symptoms of this condition typically manifest at various times throughout the day and range from mild to severe. They can be characterized by daydreaming and being easily distracted from their own thoughts, which can lead to forgetfulness; a tendency to lose things, like homework or keys; and difficulties following through on their tasks. They might also have trouble sitting still and interrupt or take over their leisure activities or games.
Someone who has a mixed manifestation of ADHD may find that some medications are helpful while others don't. Therefore, it's best to try one a time and evaluate the results carefully. Adults who have this presentation and have been taking medications since they were teens should get a review of their treatment every six months, and especially when they make any changes to their lifestyle that could affect the amount of medication required.
It is important to remember that ADD or ADHD does not affect race, ethnicity, or gender, although it does seem to be more prevalent in those who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). Adults who show several symptoms and cannot explain them are usually diagnosed.
There are several ways to deal with 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 help to increase concentration by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants can also be utilized by adults who do not wish to take stimulants, or only require them in a lower dosage.
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 completing tasks or difficulties being still. she said and hyperactivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming. They are unable to wait in lines or follow instructions. This can result in frustration and behavior that is contrary to the rules.
Adults who suffer from an array of ADHD symptoms also have difficulties recognizing social boundaries within their environment which can lead them to encroach on activities or conversations without considering how others might think about it. They are more likely to have a difficult time with organizational strategies and tend to be overwhelmed by complicated projects. In a lot of cases, people with this ADHD appearance also have a history of depression or other mood disorders.
A correct diagnosis is crucial to determine the best treatment plan. Many adults with ADHD are reluctant to seek assistance. 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. These symptoms must be present prior to age 12 and last for at least six months in order to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis. The symptoms must be severe enough to negatively impact the student's performance at the workplace, at school or at home.
Experts aren't entirely sure why ADHD is a common occurrence. However, they do know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the chance of a person being diagnosed with the disorder. They also are aware that brain chemistry as well as differences in brain structure can play a role, 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 therapies can be more effective than medication.