Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults

Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to identify and manage. A therapist can assist by analyzing the signs and causes, teaching the patient how to add structure, make behavioural modifications and provide medication if needed.

People suffering from ADD/ADHD have issues with hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsiveness. It is evident by the lack of memory and difficulty waiting for their turn, or difficulty working on tasks or games.

Symptoms of Inattentive Type

This type of ADHD is characterized by a high degree of distraction and a lack of focus on small details. Adults who are inattentive ADHD have difficulty completing tasks or projects that require constant mental efforts, such as writing and reading. They may struggle to remember appointments or paying bills and are more prone to making naive mistakes in their daily or personal 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 the habit of fidgeting with your hands or feet, having difficulty taking part in leisure activities without interruption as well as difficulty waiting for their turn, and answering questions before they are answered. They also struggle to stay organized at home and 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 dislike boring meetings and prefer to chew gum or drink coffee to help them through.

A medical professional will evaluate the person for possible mental health or medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms and then analyze their behavior history to determine if they suffer from ADD. You can request to observe the person's behavior in different situations by talking to their parents, teachers, and co-workers. The health care provider may also ask about the person’s mood and their recent medical history.

Psychostimulants are used to increase alertness and boost brain signals. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are all examples of these drugs. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain, are sometimes prescribed for people with inattention ADHD to improve their mood and focus. Wellbutrin (bupropion), and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Non-stimulant drugs can 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. ADHD symptoms adults male can make it difficult for people to concentrate on their studies or work tasks, and may cause mistakes due to negligence. They also have difficulty following instructions or completing difficult tasks. They also struggle to stay on task when playing games or 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 may fiddle or squirm using their hands or feet, squirm or pace in their seats, or pacing while they listen or talk.

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 unable to slow down or stop, even during events such as fairs or a theme parks. They may have difficulties managing tasks, completing long-term projects or applying themselves to homework or other structured activities.

They lack a sense of responsibility and often have difficulty making and keeping friendships. They may also have issues managing their emotions, which could cause mood swings and severe depression. They may also have trouble managing their time and finances which could make them more prone to financial scams or other frauds.

Many people with ADHD do not be diagnosed until the age of adulthood, when their problems become more apparent. Teachers or other adults might have missed their symptoms throughout the early years of their lives. They could have reacted to their issues in a supportive environment and flourished until they were confronted with the stress of pursuing an occupation or raising a child, which is when their issues became evident. The male-to-female ratio of diagnosed ADHD is much higher in childhood, but the rate becomes more similar as they reach adulthood.

People with ADHD often find that certain nutritional supplements, such as multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine, and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory, can help reduce irritability and improve memory. They may also benefit from stress management techniques that include regular exercise and deep breathing. They should discuss all treatment options with their doctor including non-stimulants and stimulants like Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin).

Symptoms 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, such as chores, schoolwork, homework or work. They also make a lot of mistakes at school, at work as well as in their personal lives. These problems with attention and impulse control can lead to a lot of stress and difficulty in relationships.

The symptoms of this condition typically appear at various times in the course of life, and they may vary from mild to severe. They can be characterized by daydreaming and being easily distracted from their thoughts, which can lead to forgetfulness; a tendency to lose things, like keys or homework; and difficulties following through on tasks. They also struggle to stay still and may disrupt or take over games or other leisure activities.

Someone with a mixed presentation of ADHD may find that some medications are helpful while others don't, so it's recommended to test one at an time and then evaluate the results carefully. Adults who have had this type of presentation since they were teenagers should have their treatment evaluated every six months, particularly in the event of any changes in their lifestyle that could affect the amount of medication needed.

It is important to know that ADD and ADHD do not impact race, gender, ethnicity or age. However it does appear to affect more people who were assigned male at birth. Adults who exhibit several symptoms and cannot explain them are typically diagnosed.

There are a variety of ways to manage and treat ADD in adults, such as 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 assist in increasing concentration by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Non-stimulants can also be utilized by adults who do not want to take stimulants, or only require them in a small dose.

Symptoms of Combined Type


For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. The signs of inattention could be apparent in the form of difficulty sitting still, forgetfulness or difficulty finishing tasks, while hyperactivity and impulsivity may manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming, or blurting out answers without waiting for the complete question. They often have a difficult time to wait in line or follow instructions, leading to frustration and behavior that is contrary to the rules.

Adults who suffer from a combination of ADHD symptoms often have difficulty reading social boundaries in a given situation and can cause them to disrupt conversations or activities. They do this without considering how others may feel. They are more likely to have a hard to organize their lives and tend to be overwhelmed by complicated projects. Many people with this ADHD also have a previous history of depression or mood disorders.

A clear diagnosis is crucial to determine the best treatment plan. Many adults suffering from ADHD are reluctant to seek assistance. However, a 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 have been present before the age of 12 and continue for at least six months to qualify as ADHD. Additionally the symptoms have to be severe enough to hinder the performance of a child at school, work or home.

Experts aren't entirely sure the reason ADHD occurs. However, they do know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the likelihood of someone being diagnosed with the disorder. They also know that brain chemistry and variations in the structure of the brain can play a role in the development of the disorder, and that some individuals have the disorder despite not having 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 instances, these treatments can be more effective than medication.