Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Attention deficit disorder in adults can be difficult to recognize and treat. A therapist can assist by analyzing the signs and root causes, and then teaching the patient how to structure their lives and behavioural changes, and offering medication if necessary.
People with ADD/ADHD experience difficulties with hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsiveness. Some of the symptoms include forgetfulness, trouble waiting for their turn and difficulties concentrating on tasks or playing games.
Signs of Inattentive Type
This type of ADHD is characterized by high distractibility, and a lack of focus on tiny details. Adults with inattention ADHD often find it hard to finish tasks or complete projects that require constant concentration, such as writing, reading and completing homework. ADHD in adults symptoms uk 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, the symptoms of inattentive ADHD can last throughout their adult lives, and may cause issues with relationships, school performance, and career advancement.
Inattentive ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, having trouble engaging in leisure activities, difficulties waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers before the questions are completed. They also are often late to meetings or classes and are unable to stay organized. Inattentive ADHD sufferers often have a hard time staying focused at school or at work. They don't like boring meetings and prefer to chew gum or drink coffee to get them through.
A health care provider will evaluate the person for potential mental health issues or medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Then, they will use their behavioral history to identify if they have ADD. This may involve speaking with the person's parents, colleagues and teachers and asking to see their behavior in various settings. The health care provider may also inquire about the individual's mood and their recent medical history.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for inattentive ADHD are psychostimulants that improve the brain's signals and increase alertness. These include amphetamines such as Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine). Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters in the brain, are also often prescribed to people suffering from inattentive ADHD to help improve their mood and focus. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Other drugs 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 condition can make it difficult for people to concentrate on their work or school tasks, and may result in a number of mistakes made by careless people. In addition, they typically struggle to follow instructions or performing complex tasks. They also struggle to stay on track when playing games or in leisure activities with others. They often disrupt and interrupt other players during games, discussions or other activities. They might fiddle or squirm using their hands or feet or squirm 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 struggle with self-control and can often be on the go, unable to stop or slow down, even when they are at events that are organized such as fairs or theme parks. They may have difficulties managing tasks, finishing long-term tasks or committing to homework or other structured activities.
They typically have a low sense of their personal responsibility and experience difficulties making and maintaining friendships. They may also have issues controlling their emotions, which can result in mood swings and depression. They may also have difficulty managing their time and finances, which can make it easier for them to fall victim to financial scams.
Many people with ADHD are not diagnosed until adulthood when their symptoms become more apparent. Teachers or other adults might have missed their symptoms during their childhood. They may have adapted to compensate for their symptoms and thrived in a nurturing environment until they encountered the pressures of working or having a family when their problems became more evident. The ratio of males to females in diagnosed ADHD is higher in childhood, but the rate becomes more similar as they reach adulthood.
Certain dietary supplements can reduce irritability for people suffering from ADHD. These include GABA and taurine, GABA fish oil, and Brain Vitale. Stress management techniques like deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They must discuss with their physician all treatment options including stimulants (Strattera) as well as non-stimulants (Viloxazine) (Qelbree), and antidepressants (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 schoolwork, homework, chores or work. They also make careless mistakes at school, in the workplace as well as in their personal lives. These issues with attention and impulse can cause a lot stress and cause relationship difficulties.
The symptoms of this condition typically occur at various times in the course of life and range from mild to severe. The ability to be easily distracted, daydreaming, and forgetfulness are all symptoms. They also have a tendency to misplace items like keys or homework and a difficulty in following through with tasks. They might also have trouble sitting still and interfere with their leisure activities or games.
It is important to assess the results of each drug carefully in the event of a mixed presentation. Adults who have this presentation and have been taking medication since the age of a teenager should get a review of their treatment every 6 months, and especially after any lifestyle changes that may alter the dosage of medication needed.
It is crucial to remember that ADD or ADHD doesn't affect race, ethnicity, or gender, but it is believed to be more prevalent in those who are assigned males at birth (AMAB). Adults who present with several symptoms but are unable to explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are many ways to deal with ADD for adults, such as medication, 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 boost concentration by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Non-stimulants are also available, and these can be an excellent option for adults who aren't keen on taking stimulants or require them at lower doses.
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 may find it difficult to wait in line or to follow instructions, leading to frustration and a tendency to break the rules.
Adults who suffer from a mix of ADHD symptoms also often have difficulty recognizing social boundaries in a situation which can lead them to encroach on conversations or activities without thinking about how others be feeling about it. They are more likely to have a difficult to organize their lives and are often overwhelmed easily by complex projects. Many people who suffer from this ADHD also have a past history of mood disorders or depression.
Making sure you have a clear diagnosis of ADHD is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan. While many people with ADHD struggle to reach out for assistance, obtaining an accurate diagnosis can be a inspiring experience that provides them with the tools they require to manage their symptoms and lead 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 persist for at least six months in order to be eligible for an ADHD diagnosis. The symptoms must be severe enough to impact the performance of a child at the workplace, at school or at home.
Experts aren't sure the reasons ADHD is a problem however they do know that it can be hereditary and that certain genes can increase a person's risk of developing the condition. They also are aware that brain chemistry as well as variations in the structure of the brain are a factor and that some people suffer from the disorder without having 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 instances, these therapies are more effective than medications.