Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder exerting influence on people’s behaviour. It can be defined as a condition where the affected people struggle to manage their everyday activities. ADHD is frequently associated with other co-existing mental health disorders and can manifest in different forms, affecting children and adults and intensely impacting daily functioning. ADHD is commonly found more in males than females. It is essential to know ADHD symptoms to reduce the stigma and open a route for proper management. In this blog, we will go through the ADHD symptoms and treatment.
What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, is a developmental disorder characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are typically present since early childhood. In most cases, ADHD symptoms occur in childhood and often become apparent in daily life, interfering with social interactions and school or work performances. ADHD is primarily diagnosed in children and adolescents; however, the condition also affects many adults.
What are the Types of ADHD in Adults?
Moving ahead from what is ADHD condition, let’s understand its types. ADHD is found distinctly among people with different patterns. It can affect the focus, impulse control and emotional well-being of a person. Based on predominant symptoms, ADHD is classified into three main categories. These categories are:
Inattentive Type
Predominantly characterised by symptoms of inattention. Some common examples include problems keeping up with the focus, forgetfulness, and disorganisation in completing tasks. Since this type fails to produce the disruptive behaviours more commonly associated with ADHD, it easily goes unnoticed – particularly among adults.
Overactive-Impulsive Type
These individuals are likely to engage in excessive fidgeting, talking and become easily impulsive. As a result, they have difficulty remaining seated in any appropriate setting, often interrupt others, and have difficulty with self-control in various settings. Since these symptoms are more readily apparent, many more kids than adults receive this diagnosis.
Combined Type
This type combines both inattentive and overactive-impulsive symptoms. There is extreme interference with daily life as ADHD symptoms of both types are present, which makes the treatment more challenging.
Adult ADHD Symptoms
ADHD in adults differs from that found in children as manifestations severely interfere with a person’s daily life. The main ADHD symptoms are:
Inattention
- Unable to follow through instructions and forgetfulness
- Extreme disorganisation is a characteristic
- Lack of continuity of activities and derailments are common
Hyperactivity
- Mostly cannot sit quietly.
- Can’t remain calm even when resting
Impulsivity
- Makes impulsive decisions without even considering the implications
- Cannot get a word in when others are talking
Emotional Dysregulation
- Overreacts to stress factors, frustration is common
- Sometimes irrational mood swings
Relationship Problems
- Difficulty in keeping concentration or interest during conversations, which is perceived as apathy.
- Communication issues that often lead to misunderstanding.
Adult ADHD Diagnosis
Adult ADHD diagnosis tends to be trickier compared to children’s cases since symptoms may overlap with disorders like depression and anxiety. In addition, most people are unfamiliar with adult ADHD. In the process of diagnosis, more attention is given to the following areas:
Clinical Evaluation
Adults are first evaluated by a mental health professional who works up an in-depth history of symptoms and daily impact, using self-report questionnaires such as the ASRS (Adult ADHD Self Report Scale).
Diagnostic Criteria
The criterion for diagnosis, at minimum, includes five symptoms from the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive categories for six months. The symptoms must have started in childhood, even if not previously recognised.
Co-occurring Conditions
ADHD often presents with other diagnoses, such as anxiety and depression, which adds a level of complexity to the diagnosis. Clinicians assess these to make an integrated plan for treatment.
Behavioural Observations
Information from family members or peers is helpful to clarify the presentation of symptoms. Informant ratings are useful to understand what the individual is reporting.
Neuropsychological Testing
Some clinicians insist on neuropsychological testing to assess attention and memory. These tests help to distinguish between other disorders and separate them from ADHD.
Rule Out Other Conditions
Differential diagnosis is useful to dismiss other reasons for symptoms. A thorough health evaluation can help with that.
How to Cure ADHD in Adults?
ADHD cannot be cured, but various interventions can help control the symptoms well to obtain the utmost quality of life.
Medication for ADHD
ADHD treatment for adults falls into stimulant and non-stimulant categories of medication. The former, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, enhance dopamine activity. The latter, like atomoxetine, have different mechanisms of action. All these medications pose the risk of side effects such as sleep disturbances and reduced appetite, so they should be monitored closely.
ADHD Therapy
Therapy incorporates CBT and ADHD coaching to develop coping strategies and competencies about organisation skills. The condition requires therapy and ADHD treatment to address both symptoms of ADHD and issues, such as anxiety, that often co-occur with the disorder.
Alternative and Complementary Treatments
Some alternative treatments are dietary changes, mindfulness practices, and behavioural therapies. The technology-assisted options like apps and online therapy can provide accessible support for self-management.
Life with ADHD Disorder
ADHD demands constant management and support in daily life. Knowing daily strategies, social connections, and self-care forms the core of a person’s living with this disorder. Below are some of the management factors which a person can do to manage ADHD symptoms:
- Planners, apps, and other organisational tools can help manage tasks very effectively. Isolating to a study area, having set routines and structure, and minimising chaos are also effective to enhance productivity.
- Emotional support comes from family and friends. Eventually, engaging in support groups and online forums helps bridge that gap and benefit from shared experience.
- Knowing the triggers for setbacks can make managing setbacks easier. Stress management and emotional regulation strategies support general well-being.
Conclusion
ADHD symptoms create difficulties in daily life, which is really challenging. However, such an individual can cope with symptoms effectively if provided with the appropriate tools and support. Moreover, living with ADHD, being informed, and proactively making decisions about therapy and lifestyle adjustments can improve the well-being and productivity of those with ADHD disorder.
