Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD: A Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment

Last Update: May 17, 2024 | 2 min read

Navigating life with unexplained challenges in attention, organization, and impulse control might lead you to consider whether you have adult ADHD. This condition, often recognized in childhood, may go undiagnosed until adulthood, impacting daily functioning and overall well-being.

Understanding Adult ADHD

Adult ADHD is a continuation of the neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties with concentration, activity levels, and impulsivity that often starts in childhood. Adults of any gender can have ADHD, yet many remain undiagnosed, especially women, due to subtle symptom presentation or compensatory mechanisms developed over time.

Diagnosing ADHD in Adults

ADHD symptoms in adults often manifest differently than in children, adapting to life’s changes and responsibilities. Common signs include trouble managing daily tasks, losing personal items, difficulty staying organized, managing finances poorly, feeling overwhelmed easily, constant job changes, and problems in relationships due to forgetfulness or poor time management.

The brain of an individual with ADHD shows variations in several regions involved in emotion, motivation, and memory, explaining some of the challenges faced. Adults might find themselves in careers or lifestyles that accommodate or mask their symptoms, which can delay diagnosis.

Getting Diagnosed

Diagnosing ADHD requires a professional evaluation. Despite the temptation to self-diagnose via online quizzes or symptom checklists, a thorough assessment by a qualified healthcare provider is necessary. This often involves a detailed personal history, symptom checklists, and possibly cognitive assessments to gauge attention and impulsivity levels.

Treatment Options

• Medications: Stimulants like Adderall or non-stimulant options such as Strattera help manage symptoms effectively.
• Therapy: Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offer strategies for managing stress, organizing tasks, and handling emotional fluctuations.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can significantly improve symptoms.
• ADHD Coaching: Coaches can offer personalized strategies for goal setting and time management, providing support and accountability.

Seeking Help

If ADHD symptoms resonate with you and adversely affect your life, consulting a healthcare provider can start your journey towards diagnosis and management. Recognizing your challenges as potential symptoms of ADHD is the first step toward gaining control over your life and unlocking your potential.

‍

Finding Focus Care Team

We are a group of nurse practitioners, continuous care specialists, creators, and writers, all committed to excellence in patient care and expertise in ADHD. We share content that illuminates aspects of ADHD and broader health care topics. Each article is medically verified and approved by the Finding Focus Care Team. You can contact us at support@findfocusnow.com if you have any questions!

Sources Used:

• ‍https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15253-attention-deficit-disorder-without-hyperactivity-add-in-adults
• ‍https://www.camh.ca/en/professionals/treating-conditions-and-disorders/adult-adhd/adult-adhd---screening-and-assessment