Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults

Adults suffering from attention deficit disorder may be difficult to identify and treat. Therapists can assist by examining the signs and causes, teaching the patient how to structure their lives and behavioural changes and provide medication when needed.

People suffering from ADD/ADHD have issues with hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. It is evident by the lack of memory, difficulty waiting for their turn, or difficulties in focusing on tasks or games.

Symptoms of Inattentive Type

This subtype of ADHD is characterized by high distractibility, and a lack of focus on the smallest details. Adults with inattentive ADHD are unable to complete tasks or projects that require sustained mental efforts, such as reading and writing. They may struggle to remember appointments or paying bills and are prone to making careless 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. The issues they face can last into adulthood and affect their relationships, school performance, and their career progression.

Symptoms of inattentive ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands and feet, difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities at a relaxed pace as well as difficulty waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers before questions are completed. They also have difficulty staying well-organized at home and at work and often arrive late for classes or meetings. People with inattention ADHD are often unable to stay focused at school or at work are bored at meetings and have to chew gum or drink coffee to pass the time.

A health professional will evaluate a patient to determine if there are any medical or mental conditions which could cause similar symptoms. Then, they will analyze their behavior in order to determine if a person has ADD. severe ADHD symptoms adults could involve speaking to the person's parents, teachers and colleagues, and asking them to observe their behavior in various settings. The health professional may also ask about the person’s mood and their recent medical history.

Psychostimulants are used to enhance alertness and improve brain signals. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are a few examples of these medications. Antidepressants that alter neurotransmitters inside the brain are often prescribed to people suffering from inattention ADHD in order to improve their mood and concentration. Wellbutrin (bupropion), and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Non-stimulant medications 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 condition can make it difficult for people to concentrate on their studies or work tasks, and can lead to careless mistakes. In addition, they typically struggle to follow instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also struggle to stay on track when playing games or engaging in leisure activities with other people. They often interrupt or intrude on other people during conversations, games or other activities and can't wait for their turn. They might fiddle or squirm with their hands or feet or squirm or move in their seats or pacing while 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 be unable to control themselves and be constantly on the move and are unable to slow down or stop, even during events such as fairs or a theme parks. They may have trouble with managing tasks, completing long-term projects or applying themselves to homework or other planned activities.

They typically have a low sense of personal responsibility and may have difficulty creating and maintaining relationships. They may also have trouble controlling their emotions, which could lead to mood swings and severe depression. They may also have trouble managing their time and finances, which can make it easier for them to fall victim to frauds in the financial sector.

Many people who suffer from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood when their symptoms become more obvious. Teachers or other adults may have missed their symptoms in the early years of their lives. They may have adapted to cope with their symptoms and thrived in a nurturing environment until they encountered the stresses of working or raising a family, when their problems became more apparent. The male-to-female* ratio of diagnosed ADHD is much higher in childhood, however the rate becomes more similar 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 irritability and improve memory. Techniques for managing stress, such as deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss all treatment options with their physician, including stimulants and non-stimulants like Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin).


Mixed Type Signs and 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 making things stick in their heads, such as schoolwork or homework, chores or even work. They tend to make impulsive errors at school, work and even in their personal life. These problems with attention and impulse control can lead to an abundance of stress and trouble in relationships.

The signs of this condition are varied in severity and manifest at different stages of life. Daydreaming, being easily distracted and forgetfulness are just a few signs. They also include a tendency to misplace things like keys or homework and a difficult time working through tasks. They may also have a difficult time being still, and can interrupt or take over leisure activities or games.

Someone with a mixed presentation of ADHD might find that certain medications are helpful while others don't. It's best to try one a time and evaluate the results carefully. Adults who have experienced this condition since they were teens should be re-evaluated every six months, particularly if there are any lifestyle changes that could affect the amount of medication needed.

It is crucial to remember that ADD or ADHD does not affect race or ethnicity or gender, but it does seem to be more prevalent in those who are assigned males at birth (AMAB). The diagnosis is usually made when adults present with several of the typical symptoms in several areas of their lives, but cannot explain them clearly.

There are many ways to manage and treat ADD in adults, including behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes 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 help to increase concentration by increasing the supply of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain. There are also non-stimulants available and can be an excellent option for adults who do not want to take stimulants or require lower doses.

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 difficulties being still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming. They often have a difficult time to wait in line or to follow instructions, leading to frustration and behavior that is contrary to the rules.

Adults with an array of ADHD symptoms also have difficulties recognizing social boundaries within their environment, leading them to intrude on conversations or activities without thinking about how others feel about it. They often have trouble organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by the complexity of projects. In many cases, those with this ADHD display may also be suffering from depression or other mood disorders.

A clear diagnosis is crucial to determine the best treatment plan. Many people suffering from ADHD are reluctant 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 prior to the age of 12 and continue for a minimum of six months 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 entirely sure why ADHD is a problem but they do know that it can be genetic and that certain genes can increase the risk of developing the condition. They also know that brain structure and brain chemistry play a part in the development of ADHD, and that some people are born with the disorder and have 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 therapies are usually more effective than prescription medications.