Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to identify and manage. Home can help by analyzing the signs and causes, educating the patient on how to structure their lives and behavioural changes, and offering medication if needed.
People with ADD/ADHD experience difficulties with hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. The symptoms could include forgetfulness, trouble waiting for their turn and difficulties concentrating on tasks or playing games.
The Signs of Inattention Type
This type of ADHD is characterized by high distractibility, and a lack of focus on the smallest details. Adults with inattention ADHD typically have difficulty to complete tasks or tasks that require a sustained mental effort, like writing, reading or doing homework. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying their bills and are prone making careless errors in work 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. The issues they face can last into adulthood, affecting their relationships, school performance and career advancement.
Attention-deficit ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, having trouble being quiet or engaging in leisure activities, problems waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers before the questions are finished. They also struggle to stay organized at home and at work and often arrive late for classes or meetings. Those with inattentive ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused at school or at work, despise boring meetings and need to chew gum or drink coffee to make it through them.
A medical professional will evaluate the person for possible mental health or medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Then, they will examine their behavior to determine if they suffer from ADD. This could involve speaking to the person's family, colleagues and teachers and asking about their behavior in different situations. The health professional may also ask about the person’s mood and medical history.
Psychostimulants are used to boost alertness and boost brain signals. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are just a few examples of these drugs. Antidepressants that alter neurotransmitters inside the brain are sometimes prescribed to those with inattentive ADHD in order to improve their mood and focus. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Other drugs that aren't stimulants can 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 is a problem for them to concentrate on schoolwork or work tasks and can lead to careless errors. In addition, they typically struggle to follow instructions or performing complex tasks. They also have trouble staying on track when playing games or engaging in leisure activities with other people. They frequently interrupt or interfere on conversations, games or other activities and can't wait for their turn. They may fiddle with their hands or feet, squirm in their seat, or pace while they're 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 struggle with self-control, and often be on the go and unable to stop or slow down, even when they're at organized events like fairs and theme parks. They may have difficulty with organizing tasks, working on projects for a long period of time, or focusing on routine tasks or assignments.
They have a low sense of accountability and often have difficulty making and keeping friendships. They may also have trouble regulating their emotions which can result in mood swings or severe depression. They may also be having difficulty managing their finances and time and this can make it easier for them to fall victim to scams in the financial industry.
Many people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood when their symptoms become more apparent. During childhood, they may be overlooked by teachers or other adults who were unaware of their issues. They could have reacted to their issues in a safe environment and flourished until they were faced with the pressure of pursuing an occupation or raising a child when their problems became apparent. The male-to-female ratio of diagnosed ADHD is higher in childhood, however the rate becomes more similar as they reach adulthood.
People with ADHD typically find that certain nutritional supplements, such as multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine, and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory can help to reduce anxiety and improve memory. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss all options for treatment with their doctor which includes stimulants and non-stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin).
The symptoms of mixed type
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have difficulty staying focused on tasks that require a lot of mental effort for long periods of time or causing things to stay in their heads, such as schoolwork or homework, chores, or work. They also tend to make a lot of mistakes at school, at work and in their private lives. These problems with attention and control of impulses can cause a lot of stress and trouble in relationships.
The symptoms of this condition typically manifest at various times in the course of life, and they may vary from mild to severe. Being easily distracted, daydreaming and forgetfulness are just a few symptoms. They also have a tendency to misplace items like keys or homework and a difficult time keeping track of tasks. They may also have difficulty being still, and can interfere with the activities of leisure or games.
A person with a mixed presentation of ADHD may find that certain medications are helpful while others don't. It's recommended to test one at each time and analyze the outcomes carefully. Adults who have had this type of presentation since the time they were teenagers should have their treatment reviewed every six months, particularly when there are any lifestyle changes that may impact the amount of medication needed.
It is important to remember that ADD or ADHD does not affect race or ethnicity or gender, though it is believed to be more prevalent in those who are assigned male at birth (AMAB). Adults who show various symptoms and cannot explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are several methods to treat 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 availability of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also available and are an ideal choice for those 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 completing tasks, or having trouble being still. Impulsivity and hyperactivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting, or squirming. They are unable to stand in line or follow instructions. This can result in frustration and a tendency to break the rules.
Adults with a combination ADHD symptoms usually have trouble reading social boundaries in an environment which could cause them to disrupt conversations or activities. They do this without thinking about how others may feel. They are often struggling organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by large-scale projects. Many people with this ADHD also have a history of mood disorders or depression.
A proper diagnosis is essential for determining the best treatment plan. Many adults suffering from ADHD are reluctant to seek help. However the 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 to the age of 12 and last for at least six month to qualify as ADHD. In addition the symptoms must be severe enough to hinder the person's performance at work, school or at home.
Experts aren't entirely sure why ADHD is a problem but they are aware that it could be genetic and that certain genes increase the likelihood of developing the disorder. 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 typically more effective than medication.