Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to diagnose and treat. A therapist can assist by examining the symptoms and their causes, teaching the patient how to build structure, make behavioural modifications, and offering medication if needed.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD experience issues with hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. The symptoms could include memory loss, trouble waiting for their turn, and trouble concentrating on work or playing games.
The Signs of Inattention Type
The defining symptoms of this ADHD subtype include high distraction and difficulty paying attention to details. Adults with inattention ADHD are unable to complete tasks or projects that require sustained mental effort, like reading and writing. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying bills, and are more prone to making naive mistakes in their daily or personal 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 cause problems with relationships as well as school performance and career advancement.
The signs of inattention ADHD include the habit of fidgeting with your hands or feet, having difficulty playing or taking part in leisure activities without interruption and unable to wait for their turn, and blurting out answers before questions are finished. They also struggle to stay well-organized at home and at work, and are often late for classes or meetings. Inattentive ADHD sufferers often have a hard time staying focused at school or at work. They don't like boring meetings and often chew gum or drink coffee to help them through.
A health care provider will evaluate the person for possible mental health or medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms and then examine their behavior to identify if they have 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 may also inquire about the person's mood and recent medical history.
The most common medications for inattentive ADHD are psychostimulants that improve the brain's signals and boost alertness. ADHD symptoms female adults , Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are all examples of these drugs. Antidepressants that alter neurotransmitters inside the brain are sometimes prescribed to people suffering from inattention ADHD in order to improve their mood and focus. They can include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Other drugs 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 makes it difficult for them to concentrate on their work or schoolwork and may result in careless mistakes. In addition, they often struggle to follow instructions or completing complex tasks. They also have trouble staying focused when playing games or in activities of leisure with others. They can be disruptive and interrupt others during games, conversations or other activities. They might squirm or fiddle with their hands or feet, squirm or pace 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 struggle with self-control, and frequently be in a hurry and unable to stop or slow down, even when they're at organized events such as fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulties organizing tasks, completing long-term projects, or committing themselves to homework or other planned activities.
They have a low sense of responsibility and often have difficulty making and keeping friendships. They may also have issues managing their emotions, which could lead to mood swings and extreme depression. They may also have difficulty managing their finances and time, which can make it easier for them to fall victim to financial scams.
Many people suffering from ADHD don't get a diagnosis until they reach adulthood, when their issues become more apparent. In their early years, they could have been missed by teachers or other adults who were unaware of their issues. They might have learned to manage their symptoms and thrived in a supportive environment until they faced the pressures of pursuing a career or having a family which is when their issues became more evident. In the beginning, the male-to female* ADHD ratio is higher. However it is more even in adulthood.
People with ADHD typically discover that certain dietary supplements, like multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine, and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory can reduce the irritability and improve memory. Stress management techniques such as deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss with their doctor all treatments options that include stimulants (Strattera), non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (Wellbutrin).
The symptoms of mixed type
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have difficulty focusing on long-term mental activities or remembering things, such as homework, schoolwork, chores or work. They tend to make impulsive mistakes at work, school, and in personal life. These issues with attention and impulse can cause a lot stress and lead to problems in relationships.
The signs of this condition are varied in severity and appear at different stages of life. Being easily distracted, daydreaming and forgetfulness are just a few signs. They also have a tendency to misplace things like homework or keys, and having difficulty keeping track of tasks. They may also have difficulty sitting still and disrupt or take over leisure activities or games.
It is crucial to analyze the results of each drug carefully when you have an unbalanced presentation. Adults who have experienced this presentation since they were teenagers should have their treatment reviewed every six months, particularly in the event of any lifestyle changes that could alter the dosage of medication required.
It is important to keep in mind that ADD or ADHD does not affect race or ethnicity, nor gender, but it does seem to affect more people who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). Adults who show various symptoms but are unable to explain them are usually diagnosed.
There are many ways to treat and manage ADD for adults, which includes lifestyle modification, behavior therapy, and medication. 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 aid in increasing concentration by increasing the supply of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants can also be used by adults who don't want to use stimulants, or who only require them in a lower dose.
Symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. The signs of inattention could be apparent as a struggle to sit still, forgetfulness or trouble finishing tasks and impulsivity, hyperactivity can show up as a lack of concentration, fidgeting, squirming or blurting out answers without waiting for a full answer. They often find it difficult to stay in line or to follow instructions, which can result in frustration and behavior that is contrary to the rules.
Adults who suffer from a combination of ADHD symptoms are often having trouble understanding social boundaries in an environment which could cause them to disrupt conversations or activities. They do this without considering the feelings of others. They are more likely to have a difficult time with organizational strategies and tend to be overwhelmed by complicated projects. Many people with this ADHD also have a past history of mood disorders or depression.
Making sure you have a clear diagnosis of ADHD is crucial to determining the most effective treatment strategy. Although many adults with ADHD struggle to seek assistance, getting a diagnosis can be an empowering experience that gives them the tools they require to manage their symptoms and lead productive, fulfilling 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 have been present before the age of 12 and persist for at least six month to be considered ADHD. The symptoms must also be severe enough to negatively impact the performance of a child at the workplace, at school or at home.
Experts aren't sure why ADHD occurs however they know that it can be inherited and that certain genes can increase a person's risk of developing the disorder. They also are aware that brain chemistry as well as variations in the structure of the brain are a factor 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 instances, these therapies are more effective than medication.