Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to recognize and treat. A therapist can help by examining symptoms and causes, teaching patients ways to create structure and change their behavior, and offering medication when required.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD experience issues with hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. It is evident by the lack of memory, difficulty waiting for their turn, or having difficulty concentrating on games or tasks.
Symptoms of Inattentive Type
This type of ADHD is distinguished by a high level of distraction, and difficulty paying attention to the smallest details. Adults with inattentive ADHD frequently find it difficult to complete tasks or projects that require constant mental effort, like writing, reading and completing homework. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying their bills, and are susceptible to making impulsive 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. The issues they face can last throughout their adulthood and impact their relationships, school performance and even their career development.
Inattention ADHD symptoms include fumbling, difficulty playing quietly or participating in leisure activities, problems waiting for their turn, and blurting answers before the questions are completed. They also have difficulty staying organized at home and at work and often arrive late for classes or meetings. symptoms of add and ADHD in adults with inattentive ADHD often have trouble staying focused during work or school dislike boring meetings and need to chew gum or sip coffee to pass the time.
A health professional will assess a person to determine if they have 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. This could involve speaking to the person's parents, teachers and colleagues and asking them to observe their behavior in various settings. The health care provider may also ask about the person’s mood and recent medical history.
Most commonly, psychostimulants are used to boost alertness and boost brain signals. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are a few examples of these medicines. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters in the brain, are also sometimes prescribed for people with inattentive ADHD to help improve their mood and concentration. Wellbutrin (bupropion), and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Non-stimulant drugs may also 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 symptom can make it difficult for people to focus on their work or school tasks, and could lead to careless mistakes. In addition, they often struggle to follow instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have difficulty staying focused when playing games or in leisure activities with others. They often interrupt or intrude on other people during conversations, games or other activities and are eagerly waiting for their turn. They might fiddle with their feet or hands, squirm in their seat, or pace while they're 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 themselves and be constantly on the move and are unable to slow down or stop, even at fairs or theme park. They may have difficulty with organizing tasks, working on projects over a long period of time or applying themselves to structured activities or homework.
They have a lack of a sense of responsibility and often struggle to form and maintain friendships. They may also have issues controlling their emotions, which could lead 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 prey to scams in the financial industry.
Many people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood, when their symptoms become more apparent. Teachers or other adults may have missed their symptoms during the early years of their lives. They may have compensated for their symptoms in a supportive environment and thrived until they were confronted with the stress of pursuing the job of their dreams or raising a child, when their issues became apparent. In the early years, the male-to-female* ADHD ratio is higher. However, it becomes more equal as they grow older.
Certain supplements in the diet can help reduce the irritability of people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA as well as taurine. GABA fish oil and Brain Vitale. They may also benefit from stress management strategies that include regular exercise and deep breathing. They should talk to their doctor about all options for treatment including stimulants (Strattera) and non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (Wellbutrin).
Signs of Mixed Type
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have trouble focusing on long-term mental tasks, or remembering things like chores, schoolwork, homework or work. They tend to make impulsive mistakes at work, school as well as in their personal lives. These issues with attention and impulse can cause stress and lead to relationship difficulties.
The symptoms of this condition can be varied in severity and can manifest at different stages of life. Daydreaming, being easily distracted and forgetfulness are just a few signs. They also have a tendency to misplace things like homework or keys and a difficult time keeping track of tasks. They may also have difficulty being still, and can disrupt or take over leisure activities or games.
It is important to assess the results of each drug carefully in the event of an unbalanced presentation. Adults with this type of presentation who have been taking medication since they were teens should be able to review their treatment every six months, and in particular after any changes in lifestyle that might alter the amount of medication needed.
It is important to note that ADD and ADHD do not impact race or gender, ethnicity, or age. However it does appear to affect people who were assigned male at birth. The diagnosis is typically made when adults present with many of the common symptoms in several areas of their lives, but are unable to explain them in a satisfactory manner.
There are a variety of ways to deal with ADD for adults, such as 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 aid in increasing concentration by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also used by adults who do not wish to take stimulants, or require them in a small dosage.
Symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Symptoms of inattention may be evident as difficulty sitting still, forgetfulness or trouble finishing tasks as well as impulsivity and hyperactivity. may manifest as restlessness, fidgeting and squirming. They may also be able to blurt out answers without waiting for a full answer. They are unable to stay in line or follow instructions. This can lead to frustration and behavior that is contrary to the rules.
Adults who suffer from an array of ADHD symptoms also have difficulties reading situational social boundaries and can be seen to intrude on activities or conversations without considering how others might be feeling about it. They are often struggling in organising their strategies and become overwhelmed by the complexity of projects. Many people with this ADHD also have a past history of depression or mood disorders.
A proper diagnosis is essential to determine the best treatment plan. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant to seek help. However the diagnosis can empower them and give 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 prior to the age of 12 and continue for a minimum of six months to qualify as ADHD. In addition, the symptoms must be severe enough to hinder the person's performance at work, school or at home.
Experts aren't entirely sure why ADHD is a problem but they do know that it can be hereditary and that certain genes increase the risk of developing the disorder. They also know that differences in brain structure and the brain's chemical makeup play a role in the development of the disorder, and that some individuals develop the disorder spontaneously with no 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. These treatments are typically more effective than medications.