Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, is a mental disorder that affects children and adults. Patients have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. Adults who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder display different symptoms than children: adults have more issues with concentration, which can have a severe impact on work productivity. Patients can choose from medication or therapy as treatment options; however, the side effects should be weighed before a treatment is chosen.
Inattention
Adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have more dominant inattention symptoms than children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Concentration is heavily affected by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which makes it difficult for adults at work. Examples of concentration problems include trouble following conversations, zoning out, being forgetful, easily distracted and trouble finishing tasks. Organizational problems are also a symptom of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Adults will be cluttered and messy, lose things and succumb to procrastination.
Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity in adults with adult deficit hyperactivity disorder is different from hyperactivity in children. Examples of hyperactivity include boredom, irritability, mood swings, restlessness, incessant talking, nervous energy and inability to do quiet activities.
Impulsiveness
Adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have trouble controlling their impulses. Decision making and relationships with others can be affected. For example, adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder will make sudden decisions or have problems listening to others. In addition, patients may interrupt others, blurt out, have trouble following a conversation and answer a question before it has been asked.
Medication
Medication is often used to control symptoms. Stimulants, like Ritalin, can be used, as well as antidepressants. However, side effects are possible with both types of medication, such as irritability, depression and loss of appetite. Stimulants are available in two forms: short-acting and long-acting stimulants. Short-acting stimulants need to be taken two to three times a day, while long-acting stimulants only need to be taken once a day. Antidepressants are recommended for patients who have both attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and depression.
Behavioral Techniques
Behavioral techniques can help regulate symptoms without the use of medication. Three types of behavioral techniques are available for adult patients: talk therapy, family counseling and cognitive-behavioral therapy. All forms of treatment work by addressing negative behavior. While talk therapy and cognitive therapy focuses on the patient's issues, family counseling can help family members adjust to the patient's symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
