Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be challenging to recognize and treat. Therapists can help by examining the symptoms and their causes, educating the patient on how to structure their lives and behavioral changes, and offering medication if necessary.
People with ADD/ADHD may have issues with hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. Symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty waiting for their turn, or difficulties concentrating on games or tasks.
Inattention Type Signs
The most prominent symptoms of this ADHD subtype are high distractibility and trouble paying attention to particulars. Adults with inattention ADHD often find it hard to finish tasks or complete tasks that require a sustained mental effort, like reading, writing and doing homework. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying their bills, and are more likely to make careless mistakes at work 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. The issues they face can last into adulthood and affect their relationships, school performance and their career progression.
Symptoms of inattentive ADHD include the habit of fidgeting with your hands or feet, difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly and unable to wait for their turn, and answering questions in a hurry before they are answered. They also struggle to stay 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 are not a fan of boring meetings and often chew gum or drink coffee to get them through.
Read Full Report will examine a person to determine if there are any mental health or medical conditions that could trigger similar symptoms. Then, they'll analyze their behavior in order to determine if the person is suffering from ADD. You can inquire about the person's behavior in different situations by speaking to their family as well as teachers and colleagues. The health care provider may also inquire about the person's mood and their recent medical history.
The most common medications for inattentive ADHD are psychostimulants which improve the brain's signals and increase alertness. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates, such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are a few examples of these medicines. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain, are also sometimes prescribed for people with inattentive ADHD to improve their mood and concentration. They may include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). 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 condition can make it difficult for people to concentrate on their work or school tasks, and may lead to careless mistakes. They also have difficulty following instructions or completing difficult tasks. They also have trouble staying focused while playing games or engaging in leisure activities. They are often disruptive and disrupt other people during games, conversations or other activities. They might fiddle with their feet or hands or even squirm their seat or jog 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 struggle with self-control and can often be on the go, unable to stop or slow down, even if they are at events that are organized like fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulty managing tasks, completing long-term projects, or committing themselves to schoolwork or other structured activities.
They have a low sense of responsibility and often struggle to form and maintain friendships. They may also have difficulty regulating their emotions which can result in mood swings and depression. They may also have difficulty managing their time and finances and this can make it easier for them to fall prey to frauds in the financial sector.
Many people suffering from ADHD don't get a diagnosis until they reach adulthood, when their issues become more evident. Teachers and other adults could have missed their symptoms in their childhood. They may have compensated for their problems in a supportive atmosphere and flourished until they were confronted with the pressure of finding an occupation or raising a child, which is when their issues became evident. In the early years, the male-to-female* ADHD ratio is higher. However, it becomes more equal when they reach adulthood.
People suffering from ADHD typically find that certain dietary supplements, such as multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine, and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory, can help reduce irritability and improve memory. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss all treatment options with their doctor which includes stimulants and non-stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Signs of Mixed Type
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They are unable to focus on long-term mental tasks or recalling important things, like homework, schoolwork, chores or work. They tend to make careless mistakes in school, at work, and in personal life. Attention and impulse issues can create a lot of stress and can lead to difficulties in relationships.
Symptoms of this presentation often occur at different times in life and can range from mild to severe. Daydreaming, being easily distracted and forgetfulness are just a few signs. They also have the tendency to lose things like homework or keys and a difficulty in following through with tasks. They also struggle to stay still and may interfere with or even take over games or other leisure activities.
Someone with a mixed presentation of ADHD might find that certain medications help and others don't. It's best to try one each time and analyze the results carefully. Adults with this presentation who have been taking medications since the age of a teenager should be able to review their treatment every six months, and especially when they make any changes to their lifestyle that could alter the amount of medication needed.
It is important to note that ADD and ADHD do not impact race gender, ethnicity, gender or age. However it does appear to affect people who were assigned male at birth. The diagnosis is typically made when adults present with several of the typical symptoms in several areas of their lives, but are unable to explain them in a satisfactory manner.
There are a variety of ways to manage ADD among adults, including medications, 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 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 use stimulants, or who only require them in a small dose.
The symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms can be apparent as a struggle to sit still, forgetfulness, or having trouble finishing tasks as well as impulsivity and hyperactivity. may manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming, or blurting out answers without waiting for a complete question. They are unable to wait in lines or follow directions. This can lead to frustration and behavior that is contrary to the rules.
Adults who have a combination of ADHD symptoms are often having trouble understanding the social boundaries of the context of a particular situation, which can lead them to interrupt conversations or activities. They do this without considering how others may feel. They often have trouble with organizing strategies and get overwhelmed by large-scale projects. Many people with this ADHD also have a history of depression or mood disorders.
A correct diagnosis is crucial to determine the best treatment plan. Many people suffering from ADHD are hesitant to seek help. However an accurate diagnosis can empower them and provide them the tools 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 before the age of 12 and last for at least six months in order to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis. In addition, the symptoms must be severe enough to reduce the person's performance at school, work or at home.
Experts aren't entirely sure why ADHD is a common occurrence. However, they know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the likelihood of someone developing the condition. They also are aware that brain chemistry as well as variations in the structure of the brain can play a role, and that some people get the disorder without 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.