Adult Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a type of ADHD [mfn] Gentile, J. P., Atiq, R., & Gillig, P. M. (2006). Adult ADHD: Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis, and Medication Management. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa. : Township)), 3(8), 25–30. [/mfn] that typically manifests in adulthood. It shares many characteristics with childhood ADHD, including attention, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. These symptoms, if left untreated, can worsen a person’s mental health and trigger impaired occupational functioning. Further,  this can also bring interpersonal and legal difficulties.

Prevalence Of Adult ADHD

Earlier, the fact that ADHD can persist into adulthood was refuted. However, in recent years, it is widely recognized that ADHD can have a diagnosis in adulthood. It is a recognized condition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and, every year, 2.18-5% of adults worldwide [mfn] Ayano, G., Tsegay, L., Gizachew, Y., Necho, M., Yohannes, K., Abraha, M., Demelash, S., Anbesaw, T., & Alati, R. (2023). Prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: Umbrella review of evidence generated across the globe. Psychiatry Research, 328, 115449. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115449 [/mfn] seek treatment for adult ADHD.

Mostly people aged 18 to 44, both male and female, [mfn] Song, P., Zha, M., Yang, Q., Zhang, Y., Li, X., & Rudan, I. (2021). The prevalence of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A global systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of global health, 11, 04009. https://doi.org/10.7189/jogh.11.04009 [/mfn] seek medical help for the symptoms of adult ADHD. Nonetheless, despite its high diagnosis rate, only 10-25% of sufferers [mfn] ‌Ayano, G., Tsegay, L., Gizachew, Y., Necho, M., Yohannes, K., Abraha, M., Demelash, S., Anbesaw, T., & Alati, R. (2023). Prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: Umbrella review of evidence generated across the globe. Psychiatry Research, 328, 115449. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115449 [/mfn] with adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder receive accurate and adequate treatment.

Symptoms Of Adult ADHD

The common [mfn] Prakash, J., Chatterjee, K., Guha, S., Srivastava, K., & Chauhan, V. S. (2021). Adult attention-deficit Hyperactivity disorder: From clinical reality toward conceptual clarity. Industrial psychiatry journal, 30(1), 23–28. https://doi.org/10.4103/ipj.ipj_7_21 [/mfn] symptoms of adult ADHD include:

• Inattention and irritability
• Trouble focusing on tasks and problems in task completion
• Forgetfulness and memory issues
• Hyperactivity and impulsivity
• Troubled decision-making and indulging in impulsive behavior, such as reckless driving, speeding, etc.
• Organization and time management difficulties
• Problems in emotion regulation
• Difficulty maintaining successful or stable relationships
• Job and academic performance issues like procrastination, absenteeism, etc.
• Mental health comorbidities [mfn] Ogrodnik, M., Karsan, S., & Heisz, J. J. (2023). Mental Health in Adults With ADHD: Examining the Relationship With Cardiorespiratory Fitness. Journal of attention disorders, 27(7), 698–708. https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547231158383 [/mfn] like stress and mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders

Read More About Decision-making Here

Types Of Adult Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

The common [mfn] Williams, O. C., Prasad, S., McCrary, A., Jordan, E., Sachdeva, V., Deva, S., Kumar, H., Mehta, J., Neupane, P., & Gupta, A. (2023). Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a comprehensive review. Annals of medicine and surgery (2012), 85(5), 1802–1810. https://doi.org/10.1097/MS9.0000000000000631 [/mfn] types of adult ADHD include:

1. Predominantly inattentive presentation, in which a person experiences significant inattention and distractibility but limited hyperactivity.

2. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation, in which a person experiences hyperactivity and impulsivity but decreased attention span and focus.

3. Combined presentation, in which a person experiences both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

4. Unspecified presentation, in which a person experiences individual variations in symptomatology.

What Causes ADHD In Adults?

Research [mfn] Gentile, J. P., Atiq, R., & Gillig, P. M. (2006). Adult ADHD: Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis, and Medication Management. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa. : Township)), 3(8), 25–30. [/mfn] into “what causes ADHD in adults” attribute the following reasons to the development of the disorder:

• Genetic inheritability, particularly if close relatives have ADHD
• Structural and functional abnormalities in the brain like changes in brain regions regulating attention and impulse, neurotransmitter imbalances, etc.
• Disruptions in early brain development and problematic maturation of the central nervous system
• Exposure to certain toxins or substances during pregnancy or in childhood
• A history of premature birth or low birth weight in sufferers
• A history of mental health disorders like trauma, stress, behavioral and conduct disorders, etc.
• Advancing age and age-related health conditions
• Negative experiences like toxic relationships, separation and divorces, etc.

Mental Health Consequences Of Adult ADHD

People affected by the symptoms of adult ADHD have ongoing problems [mfn] Adler, L. A., Faraone, S. V., Spencer, T. J., Berglund, P., Alperin, S., & Kessler, R. C. (2017). The structure of adult ADHD. International journal of methods in psychiatric research, 26(1), e1555. https://doi.org/10.1002/mpr.1555 [/mfn] with concentration, impulsivity and executive functions which further tend to increase frustration and stress levels. This may lead many to suffer from anxiety and depression. These symptoms get worse when they struggle to meet the goals that they or others have set for them at home, education, or work, thereby lowering their reputation, self-esteem, and self-worth.

Read More About Self-esteem Here

Moreover, failing to treat adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder frequently heightens the likelihood of impulsive decision-making, behavior, and maladaptive coping habits like self-harm and substance abuse. This impulsivity can contribute to risky behaviors, both socially and professionally. In the process, difficulties in maintaining steady employment, fulfilling academic pursuits, and establishing stable interpersonal connections are common challenges [mfn] Rivas-Vazquez, R. A., Diaz, S. G., Visser, M. M., & Rivas-Vazquez, A. A. (2023). Adult ADHD: Underdiagnosis of a Treatable Condition. Journal of health service psychology, 49(1), 11–19. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42843-023-00077-w [/mfn] that come with untreated ADHD in adults.

How To Diagnose Adult ADHD

Adult ADHD is often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. Because of this, a thorough diagnosis of the disorder is necessary to provide tailored intervention strategies for people with the symptoms of adult ADHD. Diagnosing Adult ADHD is a comprehensive process guided by the DSM-5 criteria [mfn] Song, P., Zha, M., Yang, Q., Zhang, Y., Li, X., & Rudan, I. (2021). The prevalence of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A global systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of global health, 11, 04009. https://doi.org/10.7189/jogh.11.04009 [/mfn] and involves a series of steps:

• A clinical interview assesses developmental history, current symptoms, and their impact on daily life.
• Symptom evaluation includes self-report questionnaires and input from associates.
• Differential diagnosis rules out other potential causes, and a medical evaluation ensures no underlying medical conditions.
• Educational and occupational history, functional impairment assessment, and consideration of symptom duration contribute to the diagnosis.

Treatment For Adult ADHD

Treatment for adult ADHD involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy, including:

1. Medication:

Medication use [mfn] Magnus, W., Nazir, S., Anilkumar, A. C., & Shaban, K. (2023). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441838/#:~:text=Treatment%20%2F%20Management&text=Stimulants%20are%20further%20broken%20into [/mfn] in the treatment for adult ADHD involves stimulant medication (like methylphenidate and amphetamine-based drugs) and non-stimulant medications (such as atomoxetine and guanfacine).

2. Psychotherapies:

Psychotherapy [mfn] Nazarova, V. A., Sokolov, A. V., Chubarev, V. N., Tarasov, V. V., & Schiöth, H. B. (2022). Treatment of ADHD: Drugs, psychological therapies, devices, complementary and alternative methods as well as the trends in clinical trials. Frontiers in pharmacology, 13, 1066988. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.1066988 [/mfn] in the treatment for adult ADHD, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is about providing people with healthy strategies to cope with the symptoms of adult ADHD. Behavior interventions aim at specific behaviors in untreated ADHD in adults, thereby bringing about positive changes through reinforcing adaptive behaviors and reduced impulsiveness.

Read More About ‌Psychotherapy Here

Coaching and participation in support groups provide tailored approaches for daily struggles and create support systems based on collective with shared experiences. Combination therapy [mfn] Zhang, L., Reif, A., Du Rietz, E., Lagerberg, T., Butwicka, A., D’Onofrio, B. M., Johnell, K., Pedersen, N. L., Larsson, H., & Chang, Z. (2021). Comedication and Polypharmacy With ADHD Medications in Adults: A Swedish Nationwide Study. Journal of attention disorders, 25(11), 1519–1528. https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054720923725 [/mfn] (that combines medication and psychotherapy) is often the most preferred form of treatment for adult ADHD since it comprehensively addresses both the biological as well as the behavioral aspects of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

How To Cope With Adult ADHD

Beyond medical help, consider the following measures [mfn] Gentile, J. P., Atiq, R., & Gillig, P. M. (2006). Adult ADHD: Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis, and Medication Management. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa. : Township)), 3(8), 25–30. [/mfn] on how to cope with adult ADHD:

1. Break your tasks into small, achievable steps. Keep track of your progress with tools like apps, planners, reminders, and calendars.
2. Set realistic deadlines and consider focusing on one task at a time.
3. Create visual cues for important information or to keep you focused (like motivational quotes).
4. Maintain a structured routine with dedicated time for work, breaks, and self-care.
5. Avail lifestyle changes and psycho-education to understand symptoms of adult ADHD better.
6. Avail adequate exercise and mindfulness and relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, etc.
7. Build a support system and communicate with family, friends, and colleagues about ADHD.
8. Consider medication and psychotherapy as needed. Complete the medication courses and therapy sessions to better manage adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Read More About Mindfulness Here

How To Help Someone With Adult ADHD

The first step to how to help someone with adult ADHD typically involves considering the difficulties of the affected and devising ways to help them [mfn] Kolar, D., Keller, A., Golfinopoulos, M., Cumyn, L., Syer, C., & Hechtman, L. (2008). Treatment of adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment, 4(2), 389–403. https://doi.org/10.2147/ndt.s6985 [/mfn] . You need to allow kind and open discussions about the sufferer’s experiences and collaborate to come up with functional coping mechanisms.

You can also promote an ordered surrounding, define realistic objectives, and provide gentle support in times of need. Furthermore, you can offer psychological backup and be patient enough to understand that managing adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a long, continuous task that requires time and empathy.

Read More About Empathy Here

Takeaway

Adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a complex neuro-developmental condition that extends beyond childhood, impacting various aspects of daily life. With a comprehensive approach that includes accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment strategies, and ongoing support, individuals with Adult ADHD can effectively manage their symptoms and enhance their overall well-being.

At A Glance

• Adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a type of ADHD that typically manifests in adulthood.
• The symptoms of adult ADHD include attention difficulties, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity.
• There are 4 types of adult ADHD.
• Untreated ADHD in adults can spell personal and professional challenges.
• To diagnose adult ADHD, medical professionals follow the DSM-5 criteria to conduct clinical assessments.
• Measures on how to cope with adult ADHD involve psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and psycho-education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)