Symptoms of ADHD in Adults

Adults with ADHD may have other co-morbid disorders such as depression, anxiety, OCD, substance abuse, or depression, therefore it is crucial to evaluate the patients' medical history thoroughly. A thorough mental health evaluation will help a physician to distinguish between undiagnosed psychological illnesses, which may be contributing to symptoms of ADHD, and actual ADHD related behaviours. A person may have undiagnosed bipolar disorder, substance abuse/ dependence, or depression if they are exhibiting ADHD symptoms. A thorough evaluation will help determine if the patient's symptoms are medically related to ADHD or symptoms of other disorders.

A specific target definition for ADHD symptoms in adults was first defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM) which used the criterion "current inability to control behaviour in response to specific stimuli". This definition was later expanded by the fourth edition of the DSM, which states that the specific target definition should include a definite impairment in one or more areas of functioning that is defined by the patient's criteria. This definition is the only guideline, the DSM uses in diagnosing ADHD. Research has indicated that there is no proof that ADHD is a distinct disorder separate from or in addition to other mental disorders. Thus it is included in the mental disorder spectrum category of disorders. This includes depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

There are three forms of treatment available for individuals with ADHD. They are inpatient, outpatient, or combination. Some of the medications used to treat ADHD are also used to treat other mental disorders. These include antidepressants and antipsychotic medications. Psychotherapy and behavioural training can also help improve the symptoms of ADHD.

There are several challenges to adults with ADHD when compared to their children. They tend to have more responsibilities and are expected to perform more duties than their peers. Since they have to work late hours, they are unable to go home for their sleep. Adults with ADHD often have difficulty falling asleep on time and are often easily distracted. Since their daily tasks consist of using caffeine from beverages, they often find it difficult to concentrate. Some adults with ADHD are also likely to have problems with substance abuse and may be at high risk for alcohol or drug abuse.

One of the most common symptoms of ADHD is inattentiveness. Adults with ADHD tend to lack focus which results in a decreased quality of life. Many adults with ADHD are likely to experience significant problems with impulse control and have problems with their impulse responses. Impulsivity is defined as an inability to control reactions to certain situations that come about unexpectedly. In some cases, impulsive behaviours are manifested as irritability and rage, while in other cases impulsivity may be displayed as focusing on one's duties and not paying attention to other things happening around them.

The other two types of ADHD are characterized by inattentive and hyperactive symptoms. The symptoms of inattentive presentation are more likely to result in day to day problems and are characterized by slower response times and poor impulse control. On the other hand, the symptoms of a hyperactive presentation are often manifested as increased activity levels and extreme self-responsibility. These adults may also have problems coordinating all their thoughts and actions and are likely to be more prone to disrupting the relationships they have with family members, co-workers, or peers.

Like other disorders, the symptoms of ADHD can worsen as the personages. This is because as the condition worsens impulsivity is often required to be treated to reduce disruptive behaviour. Some physicians believe that in the case of people who suffer from impulsivity and inattentive ADHD, there is a possibility of undiagnosed brain damage that can be accentuated as the disease worsens over time. Research has shown that there is a greater likelihood of having both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive behaviour as the disease progresses. While it is not possible to diagnose ADHD in adults immediately after the patient has been diagnosed, once the disease has been properly diagnosed and the underlying cause has been identified, treatment can begin.

If you would like some further guidance and support on managing your ADHD, then you should contact your local experienced ADHD specialist for an in-depth ADHD assessment to improve your understanding of the disorder and to know what treatment method is fit for you or them.