Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults with attention deficit disorder may be difficult to identify and treat. Therapists can help by analyzing the signs and root causes, and then teaching the patient how to structure their lives and behavioral changes and provide medication if needed.
People with ADD/ADHD have problems with hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. The symptoms include forgetfulness and difficulty in waiting for their turn, or difficulties working on tasks or games.
Symptoms of Inattentive Type
This subtype of ADHD is distinguished by a high degree of distraction and a difficulty in paying attention to small details. Adults who are inattentive ADHD struggle to complete tasks or projects that require constant mental effort, like reading and writing. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying bills, and are more likely to make impulsive 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. Their issues can continue into adulthood and affect their relationships, school performance and their career progression.
Symptoms of inattentive ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands or feet, difficulty playing or taking part in leisure activities without interruption and unable to wait for their turn, and answering questions before they are finished. They also have trouble staying organized at home and work and are often late for classes or meetings. Those with inattentive ADHD often have trouble staying focused at school or work are bored at meetings and have to chew gum or drink coffee to pass the time.
A health care provider will evaluate a patient to determine if they have any mental health or medical conditions which could cause similar symptoms. Then, they will use their behavioral history in order to determine if a person is suffering from ADD. This could involve speaking to the person's family, teachers and colleagues and asking to see their behavior in different situations. The health care provider will also ask about the person's mood as well as recent medical background.
The most commonly prescribed medications for inattention 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 a few examples of these medicines. Antidepressants, which affect neurotransmitters in the brain, are also sometimes prescribed to those suffering from inattentive ADHD to help improve their mood and concentration. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Non-stimulant drugs 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. This condition can make it difficult for people to focus on their schoolwork or job tasks, and could result in a number of mistakes made by careless people. In addition, they often have trouble following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have difficulty staying focused when playing games or engaging in activities of leisure with others. They often interrupt or intrude on other people during conversations, games or other activities and can't wait for their turn. They might fiddle with their feet or hands or squirm in their seats 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 have difficulty controlling their own behavior and be constantly on the move and unable to slow down or stop, even at fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulties managing tasks, completing long-term projects, or committing themselves to homework or other structured activities.
They have a low sense of accountability and often struggle to form and maintain friendships. They may also have difficulty regulating their emotions which can lead them to mood swings and depression. They may also be having difficulty managing their finances and time, which can make it easier for them to fall victim to financial scams.
Many people who suffer from ADHD are not diagnosed until adulthood, when their symptoms become more apparent. Teachers or other adults may have missed their symptoms throughout their childhood. They may have compensated for their symptoms in a safe environment and flourished until they were confronted with the pressure of pursuing a job or raising a child when their problems became apparent. The male-to-female ratio of diagnosed ADHD is significantly higher in the early years, but the ratio becomes more comparable in adulthood.
People suffering from ADHD typically discover that certain dietary supplements, like multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine, and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory can reduce irritability and improve memory. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should talk to their doctor about all treatments options including stimulants (Strattera), 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 difficulty staying focused on tasks that require a lot of mental effort for a long time or making things stick in their heads like schoolwork, chores, homework, or work. They also tend to make a lot of mistakes at 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 difficulty in relationships.
The signs of this disorder typically manifest at various times throughout the day, and they may vary from mild to severe. Being easily distracted, daydreaming, and forgetfulness are all signs. They also have the tendency to lose items like keys or homework and a difficulty in keeping track of tasks. They also struggle to sit still and may disrupt or take over games or other activities.
It's important to evaluate the results of each drug carefully in the event of mixed presentation. Adults who have had this presentation since they were teens should be re-evaluated every six months, and especially if there are any lifestyle changes that could affect the amount of medication needed.
It is important to remember that ADD or ADHD doesn't affect race or ethnicity or gender, but it does seem to be more prevalent in those who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). The diagnosis is usually identified when adults exhibit various of the typical symptoms in several aspects of their lives but cannot explain them clearly.
There are a variety of methods to treat 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 boost concentration by increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also available and can be a good choice for adults who aren't keen on taking stimulants or require a lower dose.
Symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms can include forgetfulness, difficulties completing tasks, or having trouble sitting still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming. They find it hard to stay in line or follow directions. This can result in frustration and a tendency to break the rules.
Adults who suffer from a mix of ADHD symptoms also often have difficulties reading situational social boundaries and can be seen to intrude into conversations or activities without considering how others might feel about it. They tend to have difficulty with organizing strategies and get overwhelmed by large-scale projects. In a lot of cases, people who exhibit this ADHD display are also prone to depression or other mood disorders.
A correct diagnosis is crucial for determining the best treatment plan. Many adults with ADHD are hesitant to seek help. However an accurate 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 the age of 12 and continue for a minimum of six months to be considered ADHD. adult ADHD symptoms men must be severe enough to negatively impact a person's performance in the workplace, at school or at home.
Experts do not fully understand the reason ADHD occurs. However, they know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the risk of developing the condition. They also recognize that brain chemistry and variations in the structure of the brain play a part and that some people get the disorder without 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 cases, these treatments can be more effective than medication.