Although this disorder is very well known as a condition of children, many adults also suffer from it.
ADHD is a developmental disorder associated with an ongoing pattern of inattention with or without hyperactivity and impulsivity. The symptoms can significantly interfere with a person's daily activities and relationships. This disorder begins in childhood and can continue into adolescence and even into adulthood.
SYMPTOMS
Some people may have symptoms of inattention, others symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity, and some people have both types of symptoms.
Lack of attention
Having trouble paying attention to detail or making seemingly careless mistakes at work or during other activities.
Not being able to sustain attention during prolonged tasks, such as preparing reports, filling out forms, or reviewing long papers.
Having difficulty listening attentively when spoken to directly.
Not being able to follow instructions well or finish tasks in the workplace.
Show some inability to organize tasks and activities, and manage their time.
Having difficulty participating in tasks that require constant attention.
Losing things like keys, wallets, and phones.
Being easily distracted by unrelated thoughts or stimuli.
Being forgetful in daily activities, such as paying bills, keeping appointments, or returning calls.
Hyperactivity and Impulsivity
Experiencing extreme restlessness, difficulty sitting still for long periods of time, or exhausting others due to your activity level.
Not being able to keep your hands or feet still or tap them; squirm in the seat.
Not being able to participate quietly in leisure activities.
Talk excessively.
Answer questions before they are fully asked.
Having difficulty waiting their turn, such as when standing in line.
Interrupting or intruding on others.
HOW DOES IT AFFECT ADULTS?
Some adults with this disorder don't know they have it. They may find it impossible to stay organized, last at a job, or remember to keep appointments. Daily tasks like getting up in the morning, getting ready to leave the house for work, or getting to and being productive on time can be especially difficult for adults with undiagnosed attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
These adults may have a history of problems with school, work, and relationships. They may seem restless and try to multitask, most of them to no avail. Sometimes they prefer quick fixes instead of taking the necessary steps to obtain greater benefits.
CAUSES
Researchers aren't sure what causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but many studies suggest that genes play an important role.
Researchers are looking at possible environmental factors that could increase the risk of developing this condition, and are studying how brain injury, nutrition, and social settings might play a role in it.
TREATMENTS FOR ADHD
Medicines
ADHD medications improve attention by helping brain chemicals work better. Various research shows that these drugs can be very effective.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy can help people cope better with daily challenges, may help an adult with ADHD to become more aware of attention and concentration challenges, and develop skills to improve organization and use of time to complete daily tasks.
It is especially useful if attention deficit hyperactivity disorder coexists with other mental disorders such as anxiety or depression.
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