Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be challenging to recognize and treat. Therapists can assist by examining the symptoms and their root causes, educating patients on how to add structure and make behavioural changes and provide medication if required.
People with ADD/ADHD may have issues with hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsive nature. Symptoms may include problems with forgetfulness, trouble waiting for their turn and trouble concentrating on work or playing games.
Signs of Inattentive Type
The defining symptoms of this ADHD subtype are high levels of distraction and difficulty paying attention to particulars. Adults with inattentive ADHD frequently find it difficult to complete tasks or projects that require sustained mental effort, such as reading, writing and doing homework. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying bills, and are more likely to make impulsive mistakes at work or in their 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. Their problems can persist throughout their adulthood and impact their relationships, school performance and career advancement.
The symptoms of inattention ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands and feet, difficulties taking part in leisure activities without interruption and unable to wait for their turn, and answering questions in a hurry before they are completed. They also have trouble staying organized at home and at work and often arrive late for classes or meetings. Those with inattentive ADHD are often unable to stay focused during work or school dislike boring meetings and need to chew gum or sip coffee to make it through them.
A health care provider will evaluate the person for potential mental health issues or medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms and then examine their behavior to determine if they suffer from ADD. You can inquire about the person's behavior under various situations by talking to their parents, teachers, and co-workers. The health professional may also inquire about the individual's mood and medical history.
Most commonly, psychostimulants are used to boost alertness and streamline brain signals. These include amphetamines such as Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine). adult female ADHD symptoms , which affect neurotransmitters in the brain, are sometimes prescribed for people with inattentive ADHD to improve their mood and concentration. They may include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant drugs may 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 symptom can make it difficult for people to concentrate on their studies or work tasks, and could lead to careless mistakes. They also have trouble following directions or completing complex tasks. They also have trouble staying focused when playing games or engaging in leisure activities. They often interrupt or interfere on other people during conversations or games and are eagerly awaiting their turn. They might play with their feet or hands or even squirm their seat or walk around while 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 have difficulty controlling their own behavior and be constantly moving, unable even to slow down or stop, even at fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulties managing tasks, finishing long-term projects or applying themselves to homework or other planned activities.
They have a low sense of responsibility and often have difficulty making and keeping friendships. They may also have trouble regulating their emotions which can cause mood swings or severe depression. They might also have issues managing their time and finances and can make them more prone to financial scams or other frauds.
Many people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until adulthood, when their symptoms become more evident. Teachers or other adults might have missed their symptoms during childhood. They may have learned to cope with their symptoms and thrived in a nurturing environment until they had to face the stress of pursuing a career or raising a family, which is when their issues became more evident. In the early years, the male-to-female* ADHD ratio is higher. However it is more even in adulthood.
Certain supplements in the diet can help reduce irritability for people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA, taurine, GABA fish oil and Brain Vitale. They may also benefit from techniques for managing stress like regular exercises and deep breathing. They should discuss all treatments with their health care provider which includes stimulants and non-stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Symptoms of Mixed Type
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They are unable to focus on long-term mental tasks, or remembering things, such as chores, schoolwork, homework or work. They also tend to make careless mistakes at school, in the workplace, and in their personal lives. Attention and control of impulses can cause an abundance of stress and difficulty in relationships.
Symptoms of this presentation often occur at various times in the course of life and can range from mild to severe. They can be characterized by daydreaming and being easily distracted by their own thoughts, which may lead to the tendency to lose things, like keys or homework and difficulty focusing on tasks. They may also have difficulty staying still and may disrupt or take over leisure activities or games.
Someone who has a mixed manifestation of ADHD might find that certain medication helps while others don't. It's best to try one an time and then evaluate the outcomes carefully. Adults who have had this presentation since they were teenagers should have their treatment reviewed every six months, and especially in the event of any lifestyle changes that could alter the dosage of medication needed.
It is crucial to remember that ADD or ADHD does not affect race, ethnicity, or gender, but it may affect more people who are assigned male at birth (AMAB). Adults who present with various symptoms but are unable to explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are many methods to treat and manage ADD for adults, which includes behavior therapy, lifestyle modifications 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 improve concentration by increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Non-stimulants can also be used by adults who do not want to take stimulants, or only need them in a low dosage.
Signs and symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulty completing tasks or difficulties sitting still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity may manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming. They find it hard to stay in line or follow directions. This can lead to frustration and a tendency to break the rules.
Adults who have a combination of ADHD symptoms often also experience difficulties reading situational social boundaries and can be seen to intrude into conversations or activities without thinking about how others be feeling about it. They are more likely to have a hard to organize their lives and tend to be overwhelmed by large-scale projects. Many people with this ADHD also have a history of depression or mood disorders.
A correct diagnosis is crucial to determine the most effective treatment plan. Although many adults with ADHD struggle to reach out for help, receiving an accurate diagnosis can be a inspiring experience that provides them with the tools they need to manage their symptoms and lead a productive, fulfilling lives.
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 prior to the age of 12 and persist for a minimum of six months to be considered ADHD. In addition the symptoms must be severe enough to hinder the performance of a child at work, school or 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 condition. They also know that brain chemistry and differences in brain structure can play a role, and that some people get the disorder without a 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 therapies are more effective than medication.