Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults suffering from attention deficit disorder may be difficult to identify and treat. A therapist can help by examining the symptoms and their root causes, educating patients on how to create structure and alter their behaviour, and offering medication when necessary.
People with ADD/ADHD have problems with hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsive nature. Symptoms include forgetfulness and difficulty waiting for their turn, or having difficulty in focusing on tasks or games.
Inattention Type symptoms
The most prominent symptoms of this ADHD subtype are high distractibility and difficulty paying attention particulars. Adults who are inattentive ADHD have difficulty completing tasks or projects that require constant mental efforts, such as reading and writing. They may have trouble remembering appointments or paying their bills and are more likely to make careless mistakes at 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. This means that their issues can persist throughout their adult lives and cause problems with relationships, school performance, and career advancement.
The symptoms of inattention ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands or feet, difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly as well as difficulty waiting for their turn, and answering questions in a hurry before they are finished. They also have trouble staying well-organized at home and at work and often arrive late for classes or meetings. Inattention ADHD sufferers often have a hard time staying focused at work or school. They don't like boring meetings and prefer to chew gum or drink coffee to help them through.
A medical professional will examine the person for potential mental health issues or medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Then, they will use their behavioral history to determine if they suffer from ADD. You can ask to see the person's behavior in different situations by speaking to their family or teachers as well as their coworkers. The health professional may also ask about the person’s mood and medical history.
Most often, psychostimulants are used to boost alertness and boost brain signals. These include amphetamines such as Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine). severe ADHD symptoms adults that affect neurotransmitters in the brain are sometimes prescribed to those with inattentive ADHD in order to improve their mood and focus. They could include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). 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 makes it difficult to focus on their work or schoolwork and may result in careless errors. They also have difficulty following instructions or completing difficult tasks. They also struggle to stay on task while playing games or participating in leisure activities. They frequently interrupt or interfere on others during conversations, games or other activities and are eagerly waiting for their turn. They might squirm or fiddle with their hands or feet, squirm or pace in their chairs, 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 struggle to control their own behavior and be constantly on the move and are unable to slow down or stop, even during events such as fairs or a theme park. They may struggle with organizing tasks, completing projects for a long period of time, or focusing on routine tasks or assignments.
They have a low sense of responsibility and frequently have a difficult time forming and maintaining friendships. They may also have difficulty regulating their emotions, which could lead to mood swings and depression. They may also have trouble managing their time and finances, which can make it easier for them to fall prey to scams in the financial industry.
Many people suffering from ADHD do not get a diagnosis until they reach adulthood, when their problems become more evident. Teachers or other adults may have missed their symptoms in childhood. They may have sought to alleviate their issues in a supportive environment and thrived until they were confronted with the pressure of pursuing the job of their dreams or raising a child, when their problems became apparent. In the early years, the male-to-female* ADHD ratio is higher. However it is more even as they grow older.
Certain dietary supplements can reduce the irritability of people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA as well as taurine. GABA fish oil, and Brain Vitale. Techniques for managing stress, such as deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They must discuss with their physician all options for treatment that include stimulants (Strattera) and non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (Wellbutrin).
Mixed Type Signs and symptoms
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have trouble focusing on long-term mental activities or recalling important things, like schoolwork, homework, chores or work. They also tend to make mistakes in school, at work and in their private lives. Attention and control of impulses can cause a lot of stress and difficulty 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. They may include daydreaming and becoming easily distracted from their own thoughts, which may lead to forgetfulness; a tendency to lose things, such as keys or homework and difficulty focusing on tasks. They may also have a difficult time staying still and may interrupt or take over leisure activities or games.
It is crucial to analyze the results of each medication carefully in the event of an unbalanced presentation. Adults who have experienced this type of presentation since the time they were teenagers should have their treatment evaluated every six months, especially when there are any changes in their lifestyle that could alter the dosage of medication required.
It is crucial to remember that ADD or ADHD is not a problem of race or ethnicity, nor gender, although it is believed to be more prevalent in those who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). Adults who present with a number of symptoms that are not explained are typically diagnosed.
There are several ways to manage ADD in adults, which include lifestyle changes, medication 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 supply of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also used by adults who do not wish to take stimulants, or only need them in a low 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 apparent in the form of difficulty sitting still, forgetfulness, or having trouble finishing tasks, while hyperactivity and impulsivity may manifest as restlessness, fidgeting, squirming or blurting out answers without waiting for a full question. They often find it difficult to wait in line or to follow instructions, which can result in frustration and rule-breaking behavior.
Adults who have a mix of ADHD symptoms also often have difficulties reading situational social boundaries, leading them to intrude into conversations or activities without considering how others might feel about it. They often have trouble organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by complex projects. Many people with this ADHD also have a history of mood disorders or depression.
A proper diagnosis is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan. Many people suffering from 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 have been present before the age of 12 and persist for a minimum of six months to be considered ADHD. The symptoms must also be severe enough to affect the performance of a child at school, at work or at home.
Experts aren't sure the reason ADHD occurs. However, they do know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the chance of someone developing the condition. They also recognize that brain chemistry and differences in brain structure play a part 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 often more effective than medications.