ADHD Treatment: Advice for Adults

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that develops in childhood. However, ADHD treatment often does not stop when childhood ends but continues into adulthood. In addition, for various reasons, many individuals are not diagnosed until the pressures of adult life bring their disorder to light. However, ADHD treatment designed for adults can help them effectively manage this condition and lead productive and fulfilling lives.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder impacting focus and attention that first manifests in childhood. The key symptoms of this disorder are inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or DSM-5-TR, those with ADHD show a persistent pattern of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. For an accurate diagnosis, one must undergo testing and an exam with a mental health professional. Usually, the symptoms of ADHD start in childhood and must be present for at least six months.

Why is it diagnosed in adults?

Adults diagnosed with ADHD for the first time are thought to have had the disorder since childhood. However, the disorder was missed during those years. These patients are diagnosed later when they seek help as adults for problems in their current work or personal lives. There are several reasons this happens. One major reason is that ADHD was not as recognized in earlier generations. Also, those with ADHD that are less hyperactive are not as noticeable because they do not cause disruptions in school. This is cited as a common reason ADHD is missed in girls.

How ADHD differs in adults

It is important to understand how the condition presents differently in adults. While childhood ADHD is associated with fidgetiness, talking out of turn, hyperactivity, and the inability to sit still, adult ADHD can manifest as forgetfulness, restlessness, quickness to anger, and being easily distracted. Instead of failing to complete homework or pay attention in class, adults with ADHD struggle with work performance, disorganization, procrastination, and inability to follow through on tasks or pay attention to detail. These negative effects can often harm their self-esteem and lead to addiction and other unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Advice for adults on managing ADHD

Much like ADHD treatment for children, treatment for adults is most successful when it is tailored to the individual and involves a combination of therapies. Medication and therapy are typically the two main components. Though traditionally stimulant medications can treat ADHD in adults, new medications are available that work differently. Patients should work with a psychiatrist to determine the right medication and dosage. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy have helped many adults develop better ways of managing their ADHD symptoms to be productive professionally. Therapy is also available to help adults whose self-esteem and relationships have been impacted by their disorder.

In addition to working with qualified mental health professionals on medication and therapy, adults with ADHD can benefit from certain lifestyle adjustments. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce ADHD symptoms naturally. Other tips for managing adult ADHD include:

• Reducing caffeine and sugar intake
• Setting a routine for the day
• Eating a healthy diet
• Meditation and mindfulness practices
• Exercises such as yoga and tai chi