Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to identify and treat. A therapist can assist by analyzing the symptoms and their causes, educating the patient on how to add structure and behavioural changes, and offering medication if necessary.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD may have difficulties with inattention, hyperactivity, and an impulsiveness. The symptoms could include memory loss, trouble waiting for their turn, and trouble concentrating on work or playing games.
Symptoms of Inattentive Type
The defining symptoms of this ADHD subtype are high levels of distraction and trouble paying attention to the small details. Adults who are inattentive ADHD have difficulty completing tasks or projects that require continuous mental effort, such as writing and reading. They may struggle to remember 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. As a result, their problems may persist throughout their adult lives and cause problems with relationships as well as school performance and career advancement.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms include fumbling, difficulty engaging in leisure activities, issues waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers when the questions are not finished. They also struggle to stay well-organized at home and at work and are often late for classes or meetings. Those with inattentive ADHD frequently have difficulty staying focused during work or school, despise boring meetings and have to chew gum or sip coffee to pass the time.
A health care provider will examine 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 request to observe the person's behavior under various situations by speaking to their family or teachers as well as their coworkers. The health care provider may also ask about the person’s mood and recent medical history.
The most commonly prescribed medications for inattentive ADHD are psychostimulants that streamline the brain's signals and boost alertness. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are all examples of these drugs. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain are sometimes prescribed to people with inattentive ADHD to help improve their mood and concentration. Wellbutrin (bupropion), and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Non-stimulant medications can 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 makes it difficult for them to concentrate on work or school assignments and can lead to careless errors. They also have trouble following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have trouble staying focused while playing games or engaging in leisure activities. They are often disruptive and interrupt other players during games, discussions or other activities. They may fiddle or squirm with their hands or feet or squirm or move 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 be constantly on the move, unable even to slow down or stop at fairs or theme park. They may have difficulty with managing tasks, completing projects for a long period of time, or focusing on routine tasks or assignments.
They have a lack of a sense of responsibility and frequently struggle to form and maintain friendships. They may also have trouble controlling their emotions, which can lead to mood swings and severe depression. They may also be having difficulty managing their finances and time, which can make it easier for them to fall prey to financial scams.
Many people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until adulthood when their symptoms become more apparent. Teachers and other adults could have missed their symptoms throughout their childhood. They may have adapted to cope with their symptoms and thrived in a nurturing environment until they had to face the pressures of pursuing a career or raising a family as their issues became more apparent. In the beginning, the male-to female* ADHD ratio is higher. However it is more even as they grow older.
People with ADHD often discover that certain dietary supplements, like multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine, and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory, can help reduce irritability and improve memory. They can also benefit from techniques for managing stress like regular exercises and deep breathing. They should discuss with their doctor all treatment options that include stimulants (Strattera) as well as 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 difficulty staying focused on tasks that require a lot of mental effort for long periods of time or causing things to stay in their mind like schoolwork, chores, homework or even work. They are prone to making careless errors at school, work, and in personal life. Attention and impulse issues can cause a lot stress and can lead to problems in relationships.
The symptoms of this disorder are varied in severity and appear at different stages of life. They may include daydreaming and becoming easily distracted from their thoughts, which can lead to the tendency to lose things like keys or homework; and difficulties following through on their tasks. They may also have difficulty staying still and may interfere with the activities of leisure or games.
It's important to evaluate the results of each medication carefully in the event of a mixed presentation. Adults who have experienced this condition since they were teens should have their treatment evaluated every six months, especially in the event of any lifestyle changes that could affect the amount of medication required.
It is important to note that ADD and ADHD are not influenced by race, gender, ethnicity or age. However, it does appear to be more prevalent in those who were categorized as male at birth. The diagnosis is usually given when people are suffering from various of the typical symptoms in various areas of their lives and cannot explain them clearly.
There are a variety of ways to treat and manage ADD for adults, which includes lifestyle modification, behavior therapy 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). Full Piece of writing aid in increasing concentration by increasing the supply of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also available and are an excellent option for adults who do not want to take stimulants or need them at less of a dose.
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, difficulty completing tasks or having difficulty staying still. Hyperactivity and impulsivity may manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming. They have a difficult time learning to stand in line or follow instructions. This leads to frustration and a tendency to break the rules.
Adults who have a combination of ADHD symptoms are often having trouble understanding social boundaries in the context of a particular situation, which can lead them to interrupt conversations or activities. They do this without considering what others might think. They are often struggling organizing their thoughts and are overwhelmed by complex projects. In many cases, those with this ADHD appearance may also be suffering from depression or other mood disorders.
A correct diagnosis is crucial to determine the best treatment plan. While many people with ADHD struggle to reach out for assistance, getting a diagnosis can be an inspiring experience that provides them with the tools they require 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 be present prior to the age of 12 and continue for a minimum of six months to be considered ADHD. Additionally, the symptoms must be severe enough to affect a person's performance at work, school or at home.
Experts do not fully understand why ADHD occurs. However, ADHD and adults symptoms know that it is genetic and certain genes increase the likelihood of becoming affected. They also are aware that brain chemistry as well as differences in brain structure 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. In many cases, these treatments can be more effective than medication.