As a society, we are now more evolved and open to new knowledge. We are available to learn about different psychological conditions. It is supposed to be honest and transparent enough to discuss and support each other in this.
What is Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder?
Adults may also have trouble concentrating and staying on task because of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), formerly known as attention deficit disorder (ADD). Many adults have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and the disorder’s frustrating symptoms can harm personal and professional lives. Although medication is available to relieve ADHD symptoms, more knowledge is needed about managing the condition so that children can learn and develop normally until adulthood.
When we hear “ADHD,” we usually think of children and their cognitive development. But we did not know that this disorder could dominate throughout adulthood. Therefore, solutions are not easy.
Amazingly, the studies that have been done on ADHD are more than 100 years old and still active. According to some studies, ADHD occurs more often in boys because the symptoms manifest differently. This does not, however, eliminate the idea that girls are not at risk for this condition. Girls typically show inactivity, while boys show hyperactivity and other externalizing features. This blog post will be a walkthrough to understand this impairment better and find ways to identify the gaps in the research. ADHD symptoms can make it difficult for you to follow basic tasks like:
- Following directions
- Remembering names, numbers
- Concentration and organizing
Causes of ADHD in adults
To be precise, the disorder stems from various roots and does not have one single root cause.
- Genetics: Because ADHD tends to run in families, your genetic makeup plays a crucial role in whether or not you’ll develop the disorder.
- Brain Injury: Certain brain surgeries in the womb or severe brain damage can trigger ADHD.
- Alcohol, tobacco, and drug addiction can have immense impacts, even during pregnancy.
- Brain structure: Studies have shown significant differences in the neurological functions of patients with and without ADHD.
- Possible preterm births and low birth weight
- Diet and ADHD: While diet does not play a significant role in the development of the disorder, it can exacerbate symptoms. Food colorings and dyes may have an impact on the symptoms of ADHD.
Symptoms for ADHD in adults
Adults with ADHD may have one of three distinct symptom clusters. Three different kinds of symptoms are associated with ADD: inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and a combination of the two. Neither set of symptoms is present in all adults with ADHD.
*Signs of inattention:
- Unfocused, easily distracted, and unable to focus on even the smallest tasks.
- They need help to keep their feet on the ground and listen when addressed directly.
- Needs to be more organized and able to get something done.
- Having a propensity to shun or hate activities that need undivided attention.
- Constantly misplacing important items like a phone, wallet, or keys.
- Forgetfulness
- Procrastination
- Mismanagement of time
*Symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity:
Restlessness or fidgeting
Having trouble remaining sat during meetings or other events
Habitually cut people off in the middle of sentences Talk too much and at odd times
Making snap judgments based on emotions rather than logic
unable to do something that requires silence
As its name implies, “combined symptoms” depict a mixture of the abovementioned sorts.
Treatment for ADHD in adults
We talked a lot about what ADHD is and its symptoms. Let’s cut to the chase and discuss the treatment options for adults. The most effective strategy includes medication, sometimes prescribed stimulants, and behavioral treatment or adjustment.
Behavioral Therapy
- This may help in time management and organization, coaching to promote goal setting, developing strategies to achieve goals, and academic support in school. Exercise and other mood-regulating strategies may also be beneficial.
- Parent and family education workshops are useful to make them understand the situation and be empathetic towards people suffering from it. This will elevate half of the problems, as social stigma remains a major hurdle while tackling mental health diseases.
- Technical intervention: According to a study, research analysis shows that neurofeedback effectively reduces ADHD symptoms. During neurofeedback, a small, painless device called an electrode is placed on your forehead. The technician will then have you reply to a buzzer or play a video game while your brain activity is monitored. You can increase focus and concentration by training yourself to regulate your brain’s electrical activity.
- Other mental health problems accompanying ADHD, like anxiety and depression, can also be treated with therapy.
- Talk therapy, medically known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can help you manage your problems.
Pharmacological treatment
Doctors recommend 5 drugs to treat ADHD. They include:
Methylphenidate
The most commonly prescribed ADHD medicine is methylphenidate. It’s a stimulant that boosts brain activity, notably in attention and control areas. Adults, adolescents, and children over five with ADHD can be prescribed methylphenidate.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine activates brain regions. Concentration, attentiveness, and impulsivity improve. Adolescents and children over five with ADHD can take methylphenidate if it doesn’t work after six weeks.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine has a similar mode of action to lisdexamfetamine. Those with ADHD older than five, including adults and teenagers, may be candidates.
Atomoxetine
If taking methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine is not an option, atomoxetine may be prescribed to adults, adolescents, and children over five.
Guanfacine
If methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine cannot be used, it may be given to adolescents and children older than five. Adults with ADHD shouldn’t be prescribed guanfacine.
Other treatment options
Similarly, it would help if you also looked after your physical health. Following a healthy diet and exercise regimen and joining some support groups will help improve this condition. However, before making any major changes to your lifestyle, it’s best to talk to your doctor, who may suggest seeing a nutritionist.
Many people living with ADHD and their families frequently move between drug options depending on the treatment’s effectiveness and the medication’s acceptance.
ADHD in Adults test guide
To accurately diagnose ADHD, a complete and thorough assessment is necessary. This assessment typically involves a series of interviews and evaluations. A trained healthcare professional should do these evaluations. We need a psychiatrist or psychologist to diagnose. The process may include:
1.Clinical Interviews:
This is more of an initial set of questions your doctor will ask you. It will collect demographic and physical health-related information. They also talk to close acquaintances and relatives to get this data. For a diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a patient must meet the criteria outlined in the DSM-5.
2.Rating scales
The doctor may also make use of established scales. To determine if and how severe ADHD symptoms are in adults, we can utilize the ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). These surveys are intended for the individuals themselves to fill out.
3.Cognitive testing
Sometimes, the doctor may ask for cognitive testing, which tests your memory, attention, concentration, and other cognitive functions.
4.Physical exam
Your physician may also conduct a physical examination to look for and rule out additional health problems.
Certainly, this is a complex diagnosis. It has fairly generic symptoms. However, careful evaluation and analysis are necessary.
FAQ’s
How is ADHD diagnosed?
A psychiatrist or psychologist must evaluate you to diagnose ADHD. Parents, instructors, and the patient themselves provide information concerning symptoms, medical history, growth, and behavior during the diagnostic procedure. ADHD is diagnosed using DSM-5 criteria.
2. Is there more than one kind of ADHD?
ADHD has three primary types:
- This type is characterized by inattention but not hyperactivity or impulsivity.
- Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation: This type exhibits hyperactivity and impulsivity without severe inattentiveness.
- This type exhibits inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
References
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-adults
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/add-adhd/adhd-attention-deficit-disorder-in-adults.htm