Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults suffering from attention deficit disorder can be difficult to identify and treat. Therapists can help by analyzing the signs and root causes, and then teaching the patient how to build structure and behavioural changes and offer medication if needed.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD experience issues with hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. Symptoms may include problems with memory loss, trouble waiting for their turn, and difficulty concentrating on tasks or playing games.
Inattention Type symptoms
This subtype of ADHD is distinguished by high distractibility, and a lack of focus on the smallest details. Adults with inattention ADHD frequently find it difficult to finish tasks or complete tasks that require a sustained mental effort, like writing, reading or doing homework. They may struggle to remember appointments or paying their bills and are prone making careless errors in the workplace or at home.
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.
The signs of inattention ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands and feet, having difficulty engaging in leisure activities at a relaxed pace and unable to wait for their turn and answering questions in a hurry before they are completed. They also have difficulty staying organized at home and work, and are often late for classes or meetings. Inattentive ADHD sufferers often have trouble staying focused at school or at work. They dislike boring meetings and prefer to chew gum or drink coffee to help them through.
A medical professional will examine the person for potential mental health issues or medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Then, they will analyze their behavior history to determine if they suffer from ADD. You can ask to see the person's behavior under various situations by talking to their family as well as teachers and colleagues. The health professional may also inquire about the person's mood and medical history.
The most common medications for inattentive ADHD are psychostimulants that improve signals sent to the brain and increase alertness. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are all examples of these medications. Antidepressants, which affect neurotransmitters in the brain, are sometimes prescribed for people with inattentive ADHD to help improve their mood and focus. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. signs and symptoms of add and ADHD in adults -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 can make it difficult for people to focus on their studies or work tasks, and may lead to careless mistakes. They also have trouble following directions or completing complex tasks. They also have trouble staying focused when playing games or engaging in activities of leisure with others. They frequently interrupt or interfere on others during conversations or games and are eagerly waiting for their turn. They might fiddle with their hands or feet or even squirm 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 be unable to control their own behavior and be constantly moving, unable even to slow down or stop at fairs or theme parks. They may struggle with organizing tasks, working on projects for a long period of time or applying themselves to scheduled tasks or homework.
They have a lack of a sense of responsibility and frequently have a difficult time forming and maintaining friendships. They may also have difficulties regulating their emotions which can result in mood swings or severe depression. They may also have trouble managing their time and finances, which can make it easier for them to fall prey to scams in the financial industry.
Many people suffering from ADHD don't receive a diagnosis until adulthood, when their issues become more apparent. During childhood, they may have been missed by teachers or other adults who were unaware of their issues. They might have learned to cope with their symptoms and thrived in a supportive environment until they encountered the stress of pursuing a career or raising a family, as their issues were more evident. In childhood, the male-to-female* ADHD ratio is higher. However, it becomes more equal in adulthood.
People with ADHD typically find that certain dietary supplements, like multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory, can help reduce anxiety and improve memory. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss all treatment options with their health care provider including non-stimulants and stimulants like 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 mental effort for a long period of time or causing things to stay in their heads for example, schoolwork homework, chores or even work. They also tend to make a lot of mistakes at school, in the workplace and in their private lives. These attention and impulse problems can create a lot of stress and cause problems in relationships.
The symptoms of this condition are varied in severity and appear at different stages of life. Daydreaming, being easily distracted, and forgetfulness are all symptoms. They also include the tendency to lose things like homework or keys and a difficulty in following through with tasks. They also have a difficult time sitting still and may disrupt or take over games or other activities.
It's important to evaluate the effects of each medication carefully when you have an unbalanced presentation. Adults who have had this presentation since they were teenagers should have their treatment evaluated every six months, especially when there are any lifestyle changes that could alter the dosage of medication needed.
It is important to remember that ADD or ADHD is not a problem of race or ethnicity or gender, but it may be more prevalent in those who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). The diagnosis is usually given when people are suffering from various of the typical symptoms in various areas of their lives, but are unable to explain them in a satisfactory manner.
There are many ways to manage ADD among adults, including medication, lifestyle changes, 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 assist in increasing concentration by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Non-stimulants can also be used by adults who don't want to take stimulants, or require them in 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 trouble being still. Impulsivity and hyperactivity can manifest as a lack of concentration, fidgeting or squirming. They have a difficult time learning to stay in line or follow directions. This can lead to frustration and a tendency to break the rules.
Adults who suffer from a mix of ADHD symptoms often also experience difficulties reading situational social boundaries and can be seen to intrude on activities or conversations without thinking about how others be feeling about it. They tend to have difficulty organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by complex projects. Many people suffering from this ADHD also have a past history of depression or mood disorders.
A proper diagnosis of ADHD is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan. Many adults suffering from 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 last for at least six month to be considered ADHD. In addition the symptoms must be severe enough to affect a person's performance at school, work or at home.
Experts aren't entirely sure why ADHD occurs, but they are aware that it could be inherited and that certain genes can increase a person's risk of developing the condition. They also recognize that brain chemistry and differences in brain structure are a factor 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. These treatments are typically more effective than prescription medications.