Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to identify and manage. Therapists can assist by analyzing the signs and causes, educating the patient on how to structure their lives and behavioral changes and provide medication if needed.
People with ADD/ADHD have problems with hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. Symptoms may include problems with memory loss, trouble waiting for their turn, and difficulty concentrating on tasks 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 struggle to complete tasks or projects that require continuous mental effort, like writing and reading. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying bills and are more likely to make impulsive mistakes in their work or 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. As a result, their issues can persist throughout their adult lives, and may cause issues with relationships, school performance and career advancement.
Inattention ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, having trouble playing quietly or participating in leisure activities, issues waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers before the questions are completed. They also are often late to meetings or classes and have difficulty staying organized. Inattention ADHD sufferers often have difficulty staying focused at work or school. They don't like boring meetings and often chew gum or drink coffee to get them through.
A medical professional will examine the person for any possible mental health issues or medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms and then use their behavioral history to identify if they have ADD. This can involve talking to the person's family, teachers and colleagues and asking them to observe their behavior in different situations. The health care provider may also ask about the person’s mood and recent medical history.
The most common medications for inattention ADHD are psychostimulants that improve signals sent to the brain and improve alertness. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are just a few examples of these drugs. Antidepressants, which affect neurotransmitters in the brain, are also often prescribed to people suffering from inattention ADHD to help improve their mood and concentration. They can include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Other medications that aren't stimulants are also available. 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 work or school assignments and may result in careless mistakes. They also have trouble following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have difficulty staying on track when playing games or in activities of leisure with others. They often disrupt and disrupt other people during games, conversations or other activities. They may fiddle or squirm with their hands or feet, squirm or pace in their seats or pacing as 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 are unable to slow down or stop, even at fairs or theme parks. They may have trouble with managing tasks, completing long-term tasks or committing to homework or other structured activities.
They have a low sense of responsibility and often have difficulty making and keeping friendships. They may also have trouble controlling their emotions, which could lead them to mood swings or depression. They might also have issues managing their finances and time which could make them more vulnerable to financial scams and other fraudulent activities.
Many people suffering from ADHD do not receive a diagnosis until adulthood, when their problems become more evident. In their early years, they could be overlooked by teachers or other adults who were unaware of their symptoms. They may have adapted to cope with their symptoms and thrived in a nurturing environment until they faced the pressures of pursuing a career or having a family which is when their issues were more evident. In the early years, the male-to-female* ADHD ratio is higher. However it becomes more equal as they grow older.
what are ADHD symptoms in adults in the diet can help reduce irritability for people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA as well as taurine. GABA fish oil, and Brain Vitale. They can also benefit from techniques for managing stress like regular exercise and deep breathing. They should talk to their doctor about all treatment options including stimulants (Strattera) and non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (Wellbutrin).
The 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 activities or remembering things, such as chores, schoolwork, homework or work. They also tend to make mistakes in school, at work, and in their personal lives. These problems with attention and impulse control can lead to a lot of stress and trouble in relationships.
The symptoms of this condition are varied in severity and appear at various stages of life. They include daydreaming and being easily distracted from their thoughts, which can cause forgetfulness; a tendency to lose things, such as homework or keys; and difficulties following through on their tasks. They also struggle to sit still, and they may interfere with or even take over games or other leisure activities.
It's important to evaluate the results of each medication carefully when you have mixed presentation. Adults with this presentation who have been taking medications since the age of a teenager should get a review of their treatment every 6 months, and especially after any changes in lifestyle that might alter the dosage of medication required.
It is important to note that ADD and ADHD do not affect race or gender, ethnicity, or age. However it does appear to affect people who were categorized as male at birth. Adults who present with several symptoms and cannot explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are several ways to manage ADD for adults, such as medications, lifestyle changes, 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 aid in increasing concentration by increasing the availability of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also used by adults who do not wish to take stimulants, or need them in a low dosage.
The symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms may include forgetfulness, difficulties completing tasks or having difficulty sitting still. Impulsivity and hyperactivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming. They have a difficult time learning to wait in lines or follow instructions. This leads to frustration and rule-breaking behaviors.
Adults who have a combination of ADHD symptoms are often having trouble reading social boundaries in the context of a particular situation which could cause them to interfere with conversations or activities. They do this without considering how others may feel. They are more likely to have a difficult time with organizational strategies and tend to be overwhelmed by complicated projects. In a lot of cases, people with this ADHD display are also prone to depression or other mood disorders.
A proper diagnosis is essential to determine the best treatment plan. While many people with ADHD struggle to seek assistance, obtaining an accurate diagnosis can be a inspiring experience that provides them with the tools they require to manage their symptoms and live productive, satisfying 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 prior age 12 and last for at least six months to be considered an ADHD diagnosis. In addition, the symptoms must be severe enough to hinder a person's performance at school, work or home.
Experts aren't entirely sure why ADHD occurs however they are aware that it could be genetic and that certain genes increase the risk of developing the condition. They also are aware that brain chemistry as well as variations in the structure of the brain can play a role, 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.