8 Things to Know About Adult ADHD and Its Treatment

The life of adults can be chaotic if their minds are not functioning normally. Neurological issues like attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults can significantly impact their mental health, work, and personal/social relationships. Luckily, the ADHD related difficulties or abnormalities are all beatable with the best adult psychiatry at Wales Psychiatry Centre.

 

If you suspect ADHD, this blog is just for you to understand all about ADHD in adults and know about its treatment. Keep reading to know 8 key things about ADHD and Advanced ADHD Treatment In Wales.

 

1. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that adults can have. 

 

ADHD, short for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that must start affecting brain development and functioning in childhood. As the signs like difficulty in focusing, hyperactivity, and impulsivity persist into adulthood, adults, too, can have ADHD.

 

2. There are three main types of ADHD in adults.

 

Adults can suffer from either of the three forms of ADHD, varying in their symptoms:

 

• Predominately Inattentive- Adults with this type of ADHD are often seen as distracted. They face difficulty in focusing, following instructions, organizing tasks, and remembering details.

 

• Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive- Adults with this type of ADHD are restless or hyperactive. They can’t sit still, interrupt others, fidget, and act thoughtlessly/ impulsively.

• Combined- Most adults experience this presentation of ADHD, which combines the symptoms of inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive.

 

3. ADHD symptoms can interfere with daily life.

 

Adults with ADHD commonly present these signs, which impact their daily lives:

 

• Physical and mental disorganisation

• Forgetfulness

• Difficulty in managing time and planning

• Impulsivity resulting in regret

• Finding it hard to stay focused

• Persistent anxiety and restlessness

• Chronic procrastination and feeling demotivated

• Emotional dysregulation (sensitivity or overreaction) leading to mood swings, emotional outbursts, and frustration

• Negative self-image and self-doubt

• Communication problems leading to relationship struggles

• Continuous working of the brain leads to chronic fatigue even after taking rest

• Struggle to maintain a healthy routine or a tendency to forget self-care

• High risk of substance misuse

• Constant feeling of failure

• Struggle with routine and consistency.

 

4. ADHD diagnosis is different in adults as compared to children.

 

Adults who have ADHD must have shown their early symptoms before the age of 12. Diagnosis of adult ADHD is complicated and relies mainly on the patient’s past behaviours in different situations of childhood, as reported by the loved ones. Adults with ADHD must show five symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity/ impulsivity. The diagnosis of Adult ADHD also includes a comprehensive, structured interview to rule out the possibility of psychotic illness and check for any comorbid conditions. For assessing sleep issues, actigraphy is considered.

 

5. QBCheck is the new neuroscience-based technology for screening adult ADHD and monitoring the treatment progress.  

 

QBCheck is a computer-based continuous performance task that captures activity dimensions, reaction time, and attention errors.

 

6. Adult ADHD is treatable, and the approach is multimodal.

 

The treatment of ADHD in adults focuses on reducing the signs and improving brain functioning. An effective treatment plan often combines a combination of treatments, including the combination of stimulants and non-stimulants medications; sleep optimization; psychological interventions like CBT; neurofeedback; self-help resources and groups; and nutritional support.

 

7. Adult ADHD patients should use self-help strategies to manage their symptoms.

 

Adults with ADHD can manage their symptoms with some lifestyle modifications such as a healthy sleep routine, regular exercise, healthy eating, practice of mindfulness meditation, and creating and following a consistent, structured routine. They can improve their productivity by breaking down their tasks and setting reminders. Besides, they can engage in activities boosting relaxation and well-being and even talk to trusted people, therapists, or coaches about strategies and challenges that come along with managing ADHD.

 

8. Adult ADHD is best diagnosed and treated by an adult psychiatrist.

 

Seeking guidance and therapies from a psychiatrist can be beneficial for adults diagnosed with ADHD. For an effective treatment plan to come into action, adults showing signs of ADHD must visit an adult psychiatrist at the earliest to diagnose their mental health condition.

 

At Wales Psychiatry Centre, Dr. Raman Sakhuja, a top-rated and Best Adult Psychiatrist in Wales, practices the best adult ADHD treatment and can be considered to manage ADHD symptoms and lead a better life. If you want his personalised, affordable psychiatric care, request a consultation with him today.