ADHD in Adults

Do you know that ADHD is a real and common disorder? Adults often go undiagnosed because they may not recognize the symptoms. In adults, it can be harder to diagnose as many people grow out of this hyperactive behavior as they get older. However, if you still have those signs in adulthood there are ways to find out. There’s a test called the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) that assesses whether or not one has adult ADHD. For more information on how to take the ASRS and what it entails visit our blog post “ADHD Testing & ADHD Diagnosis“.

In North America, an estimated 4% of adults have ADHD, a disorder most commonly diagnosed in childhood that persists through adolescence and into adulthood. ADHD is diagnosed very similarly in adults as it is in children. It is necessary to confirm the presence of at least six ADHD traits within the inattentive and impulsive and hyperactive categories, or both. There also must be impairment within two life settings. Using the Adult ADHD self-report scale is also an effective method of identifying adult ADHD.

SYMPTOMS OF INATTENTIVENESS

1. Has a tendency to overlook details or make careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
2. Struggles to maintain focus on tasks or other responsibilities.
3. Has difficulties listening directly to others.
4. Lacks the ability to follow through on instructions and fails to complete schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).
5. Lacks organizational skills.
6. When it comes to things that require a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork), they avoid, dislike, or do not want to do them.
7. Has a tendency to lose things needed for tasks and activities (e.g., school assignments, pencils, books, tools, etc.).
8. Has a tendency to get distracted.
9. Frequently forgets things as they happen.

HYPERACTIVITY SYMPTOMS

1. Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat when sitting still is expected.
2. Moving or getting up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.
3. Excessively runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).
4. Has trouble doing leisure activities quietly.
5. Is often “on the go” or often acts as if “driven by a motor”.
6. Often talks excessively.

Natural Treatments

ADHD is usually treated with prescription stimulant medications.  Many people diagnosed with ADHD do not want to take these medications and seek out natural treatment options. 

Neurofeedback is an amazing option for treating ADHD.

• American Academy of Pediatrics lists Neurofeedback as a level One intervention for ADHD (which is as good as it gets)
• It’s non-invasive and long-lasting, with most people not requiring “boosters” for sustainability.
• It promotes lasting, reliable and consistent change for those with ADHD and focus-related issues.

• Over 35 years of research indicates it’s effective for 80% of people who complete training.
• Neurofeedback is all-natural, safe and effective for both kids and adults.

How we can help

At Mountain Vista Psychology, Dr. Stecker is Board Certified as a Diplomate in QEEG (less than 100 people worldwide have achieved this certification).  She artifacts all the brainwave data and guides protocol selection for each client at MVP.  All clinicians have a Master’s degree in counseling and have been trained by Dr. Stecker in neurofeedback.  Each clinician is either Board Certified in Neurofeedback or en route to obtaining certification.  In addition, each clinician is a gifted counselor who is able to support with counseling services if needed.  Together as a team, we meet weekly to discuss the progress of each client to ensure the best care possible.  As a team, we love what we do and being a part of all the changes we witness in our clients’ lives!

Even if you have tried other things that haven’t worked (most of our clients have), Neurofeedback can work to help you make the changes you need.

If you are interested, please don’t wait to call or email.  It never hurts to learn more information about potential ways you can help your child (or yourself)!  We can’t wait to talk with you more about your situation and how we can help!

Call 720-583-9332 or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment or a free phone consultation with one of our therapists.  We serve many people in Englewood, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Greenwood Village, Castle Rock, Parker, Centennial, Aurora, DTC, and other communities in the South Denver Metro area of Colorado.