In modern society, we often face misunderstandings or prejudices. Nevertheless, experts have identified attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a certain neurobiological model that can manifest itself in an early form in children and, occasionally, passes into adulthood.
Contrary to popular belief, ADHD can be diagnosed in adults. In fact, although there are no exact manifestations of the same symptoms of impulsivity or hyperactivity as in children, adults diagnosed with ADHD may face serious difficulties in their lives, for example, divorce rates for such people are higher than for others.
To clarify which symptoms are most common with this disorder in adults, and how they are diagnosed, we have prepared the following interesting material.
Chronic Disease Affecting People of All Ages
The ADHD is a neurobiological disorder that occurs in childhood, and which affects about 6 % of school-age children, being one of the most common psychiatric disorders among children.
The syndrome is characterized by the appearance of symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and lack of attention, which creates difficulties in adapting to the environment, and can persist longer than adolescence. Various epidemiological studies indicate that about 4% of adults are prone to this disorder.
In adults, the symptoms of ADHD differ in their manifestations compared to how it happens in childhood. In children, the symptoms may be more obvious than in adults, who often have their hidden or deviant forms, as if compensating for a certain pattern of behavior.
In adults, hyperactivity can manifest itself in the form of increased anxiety or with a level of activity that interferes with the people around them.
Manifestations of ADHD in Adults
In general, adults turn to a specialist to cure pathologies that do not necessarily correspond to the primary disorder, for example, depression, memory problems or certain compulsive behavior.
In adults and young people suffering from ADHD, characteristics such as difficulty concentrating on details, increased absent-mindedness and low perseverance are expressed in negative effects in studies.
Adults, in turn, turn to a specialist, because they have problems with self-organization, it is difficult for them to plan, they are forgetful. In the workforce, they have difficulties with the implementation of projects, it is difficult for them to prioritize things or focus their attention on one activity. In addition, people with ADHD may be more prone to certain addictions and compulsive behavior.
Over the years, memory disorders may appear, which are sometimes considered as pathologies caused by aging. In addition to forgetfulness, experts associate high vulnerability to difficulties in adults with a lack of attention, sudden movements and fast walking, all these phenomena are characteristic of ADHD.
Various studies indicate that ADHD may contain a genetic component. Parents, siblings of a child with ADHD have an increased likelihood of developing such a syndrome themselves. However, ADHD is a multifactorial complex disorder and therefore is not associated with any one gene (nor with several genes).
Medical specialists consider the diagnosis of attention deficit disorder depending on a number of symptoms, their severity and duration over time, as well as how they affect a person’s quality of life. In addition, the physician evaluates other disorders that may occur along with the specified condition.
Treatment of ADHD in Adults
Medication therapy is considered the most appropriate treatment for adults diagnosed with ADHD. In addition, studies demonstrate that parallel psychotherapy sessions, namely cognitive-behavioral type, well help to treat ADHD in such patients.
Correct diagnosis is the key to successful and most optimal pharmacological and psychological treatment of the patient.
In addition to other drugs used to treat ADHD in adults, there are psychostimulants, such as methylphenidate and lisdexamphetamine, as well as non-psychostimulants, such as atomoxetine and guanfacine.
Finally, a reliable family and social environment can have a positive effect on the development of the disease, although it has not been proven that this factor is more effective than pharmacological treatment.
