Recognizing ADD Symptoms in Adults
Do you find yourself forgetting important dates or tasks at work? what are the symptoms of adhd in adults may interrupt people when they are talking or barge into rooms without knocking. These behaviors could be ADHD symptoms if they cause you to be in conflict with your daily life.
Adults who suffer from ADHD typically suffer from mental disorders, such as anxiety and mood disorders. Routine questions asked during the clinical interview can reveal signs of ADHD.
Symptoms
A person suffering from ADD might have trouble coordinating activities, paying attention to specifics or committing to commitments. He or she makes impulsive mistakes at school or work, and forgets important things like appointments and bills, and has difficulty staying focused on conversations and leisure activities. A person who is this type is unable to control their emotions and is easily distracted by other people.
To be diagnosed with ADD they must have been afflicted with inattention at least six month prior. The symptoms should manifest at least twice and impact the patient's school, social, or work functioning. A diagnosis of ADD requires feedback from teachers and parents, as well as an examination of the patient's clinical condition and a thorough history. Some patients have a combination of symptoms in both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive categories. The symptoms of this type of ADD aren't always clear cut and can be difficult for family doctors to recognize. However, it is a condition that can be diagnosed and treated by primary care providers.
Diagnosis
ADD is a common mental disorder in children however it's often not recognized when you turn an adult. Family physicians play a significant role in diagnosing ADD and referring adults to treatment, specifically those who have been discharged from mental health services or do not have a diagnosis.
The diagnosis is based on a clinical assessment, which may include self-ratings and interviews, as well as observation of patients in different situations (e.g. at work, at home or socially), as well as a thorough medical history that includes the past and present challenges and the feedback from the school or employer. It is important to exclude other causes of the symptoms of a person, like sleep disorders and learning disabilities as well as mood disorders.
The earliest definition of ADD included only inattentive problems, but recent studies have shown that people with ADD are equally likely to present with hyperactive-impulsive or combined presentations, and they can have both types of symptoms at different times. Inattentional ADD can be identified when a doctor observes six or more signs of inattention in two of seven subcategories. These include difficulties in paying attention or staying focused, disorganization, forgetfulness, failure to adhere to the rules or instructions, or difficulty staying organized. Hyperactive-impulsive ADD is diagnosed when the clinician is satisfied there are six or more symptoms in four of the following six categories: fidgeting, excessive talking or interrupting others, being restless, unable to wait for their turn or impulsively leaving their seat.
To be classified as having ADD symptoms must be present in at least two different areas of a person's life for at least six months. At least half of people suffering from ADD suffer from comorbid psychological and psychiatric disorders. These include mood disorders (depressions bipolar affective disorder and dysthymia) as well as personality disorders, addictions and anxiety disorders.
The symptoms of ADD are reversible, however the best way to treat it is to implement strategies to help people organize their lives and implement behavioural changes. Setting goals, routines for the day and using lists and reminders are beneficial. It is important to teach people to control their impulsive behavior and to understand what causes them. Techniques such as waiting until making a decision or evaluating the situation and figuring out alternative options are beneficial. The use of medication is sometimes required, but a trial of one drug should be administered prior to adding another one to ensure it is effective.
Treatment
Adults with inattention ADD often have trouble at work, school or in their personal relationships. They are more likely to overlook important details, make careless mistakes and become easily distracted. They are more likely to be suffering from anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs. Many adults are able to find treatment options that can aid them in living more productive lives with ADHD or ADD.
ADD/ADHD, which is among the most prevalent mental disorders, is often overlooked by family physicians. This is likely due to the fact that family physicians are unfamiliar with the symptoms that manifest for adults or because those who suffer from ADD/ADHD are often suffering from co-occurring disorders, like mood disorders (depression bipolar affective disorder dysthymia, bipolar affective disorder) and anxiety, or addiction disorders.
A diagnosis of inattentive ADD is based on an evaluation that includes feedback from teachers or other professionals, clinical observation, and a thorough background. The symptoms must be persistently problematic and cause significant impairment in a variety of situations. Children under the age of 17 have to have at least six signs of inattention in the category, and adults must have at least 5 of the 11 inattentive symptoms to be diagnosed of inattentive ADD.
Management
Family physicians must recognize ADD in patients of all ages since the condition can be serious. Inattentional ADD in adults is more common than hyperactive impulsive ADHD, but family physicians do not understand it well. Many patients remain undiagnosed. The inattentive version of ADD is mistakenly categorized as mood disorders (depression, bipolar affective disorder or substance abuse disorders). The treatment is based on education and support, helping patients develop more order in their lives, improving their self-esteem and social skills, promoting healthy eating and lifestyles and taking medication if necessary. Medication is helpful in up to 60 percent of ADD patients. It should not be used in children because it is not safe for them.