Things to Know About Adult ADHD: Signs, Diagnosis, and Treatment

 


Brain development may go haywire in some people, leading to neurodevelopmental disorders. One such disorder that causes executive dysfunction is ADHD in adults. Read on as we provide all the necessary information on Adult ADHD Treatment in Wales

What is Adult ADHD?

Adult ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a brain-related condition that starts in childhood and persists into adulthood. It is marked by the abnormalities or difficulties in paying attention and issues with hyperactivity and/or impulsivity. Adults with ADHD end up facing many stumbling blocks in their personal, professional, and social lives.

Types of Adult ADHD

Mainly, ADHD in adults is of three kinds:
  • Inattentive (attention deficit disorder)- ADD sufferers are mostly seen distracted, disorganized, and attention deficit to small details/instructions. They may take a long time to focus and concentrate on certain things, and may be hyper-focused on things of their interest.
  • Hyperactive/Impulsive- Those with hyperactivity and impulsivity problems are noticed to have an unrelaxed mind, act overly, show restlessness/impatience, behave fidgety, and look agitated.
  • Combined (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)- The individual with this type shows symptoms of both the above-mentioned types.

Causes and Risk Factors of Adult ADHD

There is no science-backed evidence that could tell what causes ADHD. Mental health researchers have found through studies that adults with ADHD have their brains structured differently or experience changes in brain chemistry. The condition may run in families.

Signs and Symptoms of Adult ADHD

Adults with ADHD can have mild to serious symptoms that can change over time. The symptoms may or may not be bothersome. In some cases, they may have a huge impact on one’s life.

Adult ADHD patients usually face the following issues that cause hindrance to their daily functioning:

  • Trouble concentrating, remembering, and following instructions/guidance
  • Poor anger control
  • Disorganised behavior
  • Boredom
  • Procastination
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Impulsive behavior
  • Restlessness
  • Low self-esteem and motivation
  • Talkative behaviour
  • Difficulty in keeping up with relationships
  • Emotion too extreme, out of control, or rapidly changing (mood swings)
  • Substance abuse or addiction
  • Antisocial or more social

Complexities Associated with Adult ADHD

Adult ADHD may be associated with a long-term pattern of issues or have comorbidities. The complications/complexities include:

  • Unstable relationships or multiple marriages
  • Negative self-perception
  • Challenges at work, like an unsatisfactory job, frequent job changes, or poor work performance
  • Problems in studies
  • Smoking or alcohol/drug abuse
  • Challenges in overall wellness and life
  • A learning disability.

How is ADHD Diagnosed in Adults?

There is no such diagnostic test specific to confirming ADHD in adults. A psychiatrist identifies Adult ADHD through:

  • Physical examination (which helps rule out overlapping conditions)
  • Blood test
  • Psychological test
  • QbCheck- It is the latest neuroscience-based technology, a computer-based continuous performance task to screen ADHD by capturing different dimensions of brain activity, attention errors, and reaction times. It can even be used for monitoring the mental health of the patient.
  • Sleep screening test (in-depth sleep assessment using structured sleep tools and Actigraphy)
  • Review of medical records.

Treatments Available for Adult ADHD

The treatment plan developed by a psychiatrist can include:

  • Medications- Adult ADHD patients are often prescribed stimulants, but may be recommended with non-stimulant drugs too.
  • Therapies- Adult ADHD patients may be recommended for cognitive behavioral therapy to improve self-esteem, stress management/relaxation techniques, life coaching/counselling to develop management and organizational skills, and job coaching/mentoring.
  • Lifestyle adjustments- Some ADHD signs can be improved by simple modifications in the patient’s life. This includes a proper exercise regime, balanced/healthy diet, stress management, sleep optimization, and time management/organization.
  • Getting insight about ADHD- ADHD patients are provided with self-help resources and groups, as well as family education/therapy to better understand ADHD.
  • Receiving support- This includes nutritional support and neurofeedback.

    Original Source:- https://medium.com/@walespsychiatry01/things-to-know-about-adult-adhd-signs-diagnosis-and-treatment-a7b08981a744


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