ADHD in Adults: There are millions!

About 4% to 5% of adults have ADHD.  That translates to 10 million.  Some say that adults with ADHD can determine their diagnosis.  Few are treated.

ADHD is known as a childhood disorder.  Some outgrow it, but more than 60% still show symptoms as adults.  In contrast, if you have it as an adult you had it as a child too.  It is common, however, to find out later as an adult.

ADHD is a mental condition exhibited by difficulty maintaining attention.  The side-effects are chronic, lasting for years or lifelong.  Some research suggests identifying problems in life as a way to self-diagnose ADHD.

• Behavior
  • Lack of restraint
  • Fidgety
  • Hyperactivity
  • Risky behavior
  • Impulsivity

• Cognition
  • Forgetfulness
  • Lack of concentration
  • Racing thoughts
  • Short attention span
  • Trouble focusing

• Mood
  • Anxiety
  • Boredom
  • Mood swings
  • Overly excited
  • Difficulty controlling anger

• Also common
  • Learning disabilities
  • Depression
  • Sleep deprivation
  • Alcohol and drug abuse more common
  • Lose focus in open spaces

While self-diagnosis can be used, the preferred method is to consult specialists.  Whether clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, or primary care providers (PCP), a broad spectrum of evaluations are typically used.  No blood tests are available at this time.

Medical professionals often utilize a series of methods to address the specific needs of adults with ADHD.  Drugs/medication is perhaps the most publicized.  This includes stimulants and cognition-enhancing medication.

The use of drugs to treat the symptoms of ADHD is controversial.  They can be addictive.  With this disorder, they can find it hard to remember to take them on a specific schedule.  Also, it is difficult to time to administer drugs for optimum performance.

Therapy is another method for treating the symptoms of ADHD.  Cognitive and behavior therapy seeks to improve self-esteem.  Job coaching and mentoring provides support to improve on-the-job performance.  Family education and therapy seeks to provide support for how ADHD affects everyone’s life.

Medical professionals might supplement medication and therapy with a customized treatment plan.  It combines medical prescriptions, therapy, education about ADHD, and family support.  This is an ongoing process, being developed based on successes and failures.

Behavioral interventions and lifestyle changes won’t cure ADHD, but it can help to feel more in control.

• Nurture relationships.  Family members, close friends, romantic partners.

• Take notes.  Write notes summarizing information.

• Burn off extra energy.  Exercise, hobby.

• Use visual aids.  Consult drawings, flow charts, diagrams.

• Keep track of time.  Use web-based reminders, smartphone alarms.

ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all disorder.  It has global effects on daily lives (social, occupational, relational functioning).  It manifests itself differently on a daily basis.  Adults must adjust the way that they handle effects through self-reflection.

Having this disorder poses unique struggles.  Coping mechanisms assist in making life work.  Personalized systems form the foundation for transitioning challenges to strengths.

Adults with ADHD have specific manifestations that contribute to the symptoms that they show.  Seek out advice from experts who specialize with this age group.

Evidence-based pharmacologic, psychotheraputic, and psychosocial interventions are available for effective treatment.  Diet, exercise, medication, and developing talents bring about a happier life.