Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to identify and manage. A therapist can help by examining the symptoms and their root causes, educating patients on how to add structure and change their behavior and offer medication when necessary.
People with ADD/ADHD have problems with hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Symptoms may include problems with forgetfulness, difficulty waiting for their turn and difficulties concentrating on tasks or playing games.
Inattentive Type symptoms
This type of ADHD is distinguished by a high level of distraction, and a difficulty in paying attention to the smallest details. 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 struggle to remember appointments or paying bills and are more prone to making naive mistakes in their work or 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. In the end, their issues can persist throughout their adult lives, and may cause issues with relationships as well as school performance and career advancement.
Attention-deficit ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, having trouble playing quietly or participating in leisure activities, problems waiting for their turn, and blurting answers when the questions are not finished. They also struggle to stay organized at home and at work and often arrive 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 prefer to chew gum or drink coffee to get them through.
A health care provider will examine a person to determine if there are any mental health or medical conditions which could cause similar symptoms. Then, they will examine their behavior history in order to determine if the patient is suffering from ADD. This can involve talking to 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 individual's mood and medical history.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for inattention ADHD are psychostimulants that streamline signals sent to the brain and increase alertness. They include amphetamines, such as Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine). Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain, are sometimes prescribed for people with inattentive ADHD to help improve their mood and concentration. Wellbutrin (bupropion), and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Other medications that aren't stimulants are also available. 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 work or school tasks, and could cause mistakes due to negligence. In addition, they typically have trouble following instructions or completing complex tasks. They also have trouble staying on track when playing games or in leisure activities with others. They often disrupt and interrupt other people during games, conversations or other activities. They might squirm or fiddle using their hands or feet or squirm or move in their chairs or pacing as they talk or listen.
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 themselves and are constantly moving and unable to slow down or stop, even during events such as fairs or a theme parks. They may have trouble with managing tasks, finishing long-term projects or applying themselves to homework or other structured activities.
They usually have a weak sense of personal responsibility and have difficulties creating and maintaining relationships. They may also have trouble controlling their emotions, which could lead them to mood swings and depression. They might also have issues managing their time and finances and can make them more vulnerable to financial scams or other fraudulent activities.
Many people with ADHD don't receive a diagnosis until the age of adulthood, when their problems become more obvious. Teachers or other adults might have missed their symptoms during childhood. They may have sought to alleviate their symptoms in a safe environment and flourished until they were confronted with the pressure of pursuing an occupation or raising a child when their issues became apparent. The male-to-female ratio of diagnosed ADHD is higher in childhood, however the proportions become more similar as they reach adulthood.
People with ADHD frequently discover that certain dietary supplements, such as multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory can help to reduce irritability and improve memory. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They must discuss with their physician all treatments options including stimulants (Strattera) and non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (Wellbutrin).
Mixed Type Symptoms
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They are unable to focus on tasks that require mental effort for a long time or causing things to stick in their mind like schoolwork, homework, chores, or work. They tend to make impulsive mistakes at work, school, and in personal life. The issues with attention and impulse control can lead to lots of stress and tension in relationships.
The signs of this disorder typically manifest at various times in the course of life, and they may vary from mild to severe. Daydreaming, being easily distracted, and forgetfulness are all symptoms. signs and symptoms of add and ADHD in adults include a tendency to misplace things like homework or keys and a difficult time following through with tasks. They also have a difficult time sitting still and may disrupt or take over games or other activities.
A person with a mixed presentation of ADHD may find that certain medication helps while others don't. It's wise to try one at a time and evaluate 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 particularly after any lifestyle changes that might alter the dosage of medication required.
It is important to keep in mind that ADD or ADHD does not affect race or ethnicity or gender, although it is believed to be more prevalent in those who are assigned males at birth (AMAB). Adults who exhibit several symptoms but are unable to explain them are usually diagnosed.
There are many methods to treat and manage ADD for adults, which includes lifestyle modification, behavior therapy and medications. 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 within the brain. There are also non-stimulants available and can be an ideal choice for those who aren't keen on taking stimulants or require lower doses.
Signs and symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms can be evident as difficulty sitting still, forgetfulness, or having trouble finishing tasks as well as impulsivity and hyperactivity. can show up as restlessness, fidgeting and squirming. They may also be able to blurt out answers without waiting for a full answer. They often find it difficult to stand in line or to follow directions, which can lead to 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 and can cause them to interrupt conversations or activities. They do this without considering how others may feel. They are more likely to have a hard time with organizational strategies and tend to get overwhelmed by large-scale projects. In many cases, those who exhibit this ADHD appearance may also be suffering from depression or other mood disorders.
A proper diagnosis is essential to determine the best treatment plan. Many adults with ADHD are reluctant to seek assistance. However, a diagnosis can empower them and give 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 age 12 and last for at least six months in order to qualify as an ADHD diagnosis. Additionally the symptoms must be severe enough to hinder a person's performance at work, school or home.
Experts aren't sure the reason ADHD occurs. However, they are aware that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the risk of a person being diagnosed with the disorder. They also know that brain chemistry and differences in brain structure are a factor in the development of the disorder, and that some individuals get the disorder without any 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 are more effective than medications.