ADHD in Adults
Neurodiversity is an umbrella term that includes people living with neurological conditions such as dyslexia, autism, and ADHD. However, the most common neurodevelopmental disorder is ADHD which stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Some symptoms of this disorder include constant fidgeting, inability to focus, talking out of turn and having trouble socializing. These symptoms are easy to recognize, and patients can be diagnosed in childhood itself.
There are three main types of ADHD. The first one is ‘predominantly inattentive presentation,’ with this kind, it is difficult for a person to complete a task without distractions or listen to instructions attentively. Adults battling this disorder find daily life challenging if there is no one to help. Otherwise, simple tasks such as buying groceries or typing an article are strenuous for them as these tasks are forgotten. The second type is ‘predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation.’ Wherein, patients often interrupt people and fidget relentlessly. People countering this disorder cannot sit still and are very impulsive. On turning 18, every adult’s wish is to drive. Although, those with hyperactive-impulsive presentation feel restless and it is common for accidents to occur. The last type is known as ‘combined presentation’ and includes symptoms of the other two types mentioned above.
What’s surprising is that many adults do not know they have ADHD and label their low performance as dull-witted. They cannot control urges which often leads to rage during traffic. Adult ADHD symptoms are slightly different and are as follows: poor time management skills, disorganized work, mood swings and having a tough time coping with stress. ADHD can lead to unemployment due to the incapacity to work which ends in financial problems. Impulsivity in public is risky and the law will have to intervene in severe cases of non-conformity. Substance misuse is seen as an alternative to escaping urges but this links to overdose which might cause death. Mental health also degrades as an individual develops a negative self-image. In some cases, symptoms have been reported to worsen with age.
ADHD can be caused by brain damage, exposure to lead at a young age, premature birth, and low birth weight. External factors such as bad parenting, watching excessive television and poverty have been linked to worsening ADHD symptoms but they are not noted as the main causes. Symptoms of ADHD coincide with those of depression and anxiety and thus it can be difficult to diagnose. Often an adult with ADHD is simultaneously dealing with depression or anxiety that they do not know of.
Treatment if delayed can lead to grave complications like suicide. Patients are given stimulants to curb symptoms but these stimulants can be addictive. Therefore, non-stimulants are also suggested. Some other forms of therapies include CBT which stands for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy which can help boost self-esteem. Talking therapy and relaxation techniques also further assist in reducing the impact of symptoms.
Written by: Nishika Gupte