Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to diagnose and treat. A therapist can help by examining the symptoms and their causes, teaching patients ways to create structure and make behavioural changes, and offering medication when needed.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD experience issues with hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. The symptoms include forgetfulness and difficulty waiting for their turn, or having difficulty in focusing on tasks or games.
Signs of Inattentive Type
The most obvious signs of this ADHD subtype are high distractibility and trouble paying attention to the small details. Adults who have inattention ADHD typically have difficulty to complete tasks or projects that require sustained concentration, such as writing, reading or doing homework. ADHD adult female symptoms may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying their bills and are prone making 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. Their problems can persist into adulthood and affect their relationships, school performance and their career progression.
Attention-deficit ADHD symptoms include fumbling, difficulty engaging in leisure activities, difficulties waiting for their turn, and blurting answers before the questions are completed. They also tend to be late to classes or meetings and are unable to stay organized. Inattentive ADHD sufferers often have difficulty staying focused at work or school. They are not a fan of boring meetings and often chew gum or drink coffee to get them through.
A health care provider will assess a person to determine if they have any medical or mental illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. Then, they'll use their behavioral history in order to determine if the person has ADD. You can ask to see the person's behavior in different situations by talking to their family, teachers, and co-workers. The health care provider may also ask about the person’s mood and medical history.
Most commonly, psychostimulants are used to increase alertness and streamline brain signals. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates, such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are a few examples of these medicines. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters in the brain are sometimes prescribed to people suffering from inattention ADHD in order to improve their mood and concentration. They could include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Other medications 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 mistakes. In addition, they typically have trouble following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also struggle to stay on task while playing games or taking part in leisure activities. They are often disruptive and disrupt others during games, conversations or other activities. They may fiddle or squirm with their feet or hands or squirm 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 have difficulty controlling themselves and are constantly on the move, unable even to slow down or stop, even at events like fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulty managing tasks, finishing long-term tasks or committing to schoolwork or other structured activities.
They lack a sense of responsibility and often have a difficult time forming and maintaining friendships. They may also have difficulty managing their emotions, which can lead them to mood swings or severe depression. They might also have issues managing their finances and time, which can make them more susceptible to financial scams or other frauds.
Many people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until adulthood when their symptoms become more obvious. Teachers or other adults may have missed their symptoms during childhood. They may have sought to alleviate their issues in a safe environment and flourished until they had to face the stress of pursuing a job or raising a child, which is when their issues became evident. In the beginning, the male-to female* ADHD ratio is higher. However it becomes more equal as they grow older.
People with ADHD frequently find that certain dietary supplements, such as multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory can reduce the irritability and improve memory. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should talk to their doctor about all options for treatment that include stimulants (Strattera) as well as non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (Wellbutrin).
Mixed Type 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 remembering things, such as homework, schoolwork, chores or work. They tend to make impulsive mistakes in school, at work, and in personal life. These attention and impulse problems can cause a lot stress and cause relationship difficulties.
Symptoms of this presentation often appear at various times throughout the day and range from mild to severe. They include daydreaming and being easily distracted from their own thoughts, which can lead to an inability to remember things; a tendency lose things like keys or homework; and difficulties following through on tasks. They also have a difficult time sitting still and may interrupt or take over games or other leisure activities.
It's important to evaluate the results of each drug carefully when you have an unbalanced presentation. Adults who have had this condition since they were teens should have their treatment evaluated every six months, and especially in the event of any lifestyle changes that could alter the dosage of medication needed.
It is important to know that ADD and ADHD do not affect race gender, ethnicity, gender or age. However it does appear to affect people who were deemed male at birth. Adults who present with various symptoms but are unable to explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are a variety of ways to deal with ADD for adults, such as 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 increase concentration by increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Non-stimulants can also be used by adults who do not wish to use stimulants, or who only require them in a small dose.
The 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 sitting still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity may manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming. They are unable to stay in line or follow instructions. This can lead to frustration and behavior that is contrary to 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 considering how others might think about it. They are more likely to have a difficult to organize their lives and tend to be overwhelmed by complicated projects. Many people who suffer from this ADHD also have a past history of mood disorders or depression.
A proper diagnosis is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan. While many people with ADHD struggle to seek assistance, obtaining a diagnosis can be an empowering experience that gives them the tools needed 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. The symptoms must be present before age 12 and last for at least six months to qualify as an ADHD diagnosis. Additionally the symptoms have to be severe enough to affect the person's performance at school, work or home.
ADHD adult female symptoms aren't sure the reason ADHD is a common occurrence. However, they know that it is hereditary and certain genes increase the chance of a person being diagnosed with the disorder. They also are aware that brain chemistry as well as 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 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. These treatments are often more effective than prescription medications.