There are many adults who struggle with the impact ADHD has on their personal and professional lives. Some adults who have ADHD received a diagnosis as a child. These people may or may not have been provided with extra support while growing up. Some may have tried medication, while others still have never had medication.
Types of ADHD in Adults
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. It is categorized into three main types based on predominantly adult ADHD symptoms:
- Get easily distracted
- Miss details or make careless mistakes
- Struggle to follow through with tasks or instructions
- Have difficulty organizing tasks and activities
- Avoid or are reluctant to take on tasks that require mental effort
- Often forget daily activities, like doing chores
ADHD, Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Individuals with this type may:
- Fidget or tap their hands or feet often
- Have difficulty remaining seated
- Talk excessively
- Interrupt others often or blurt out answers
- Have difficulty waiting their turn
- Act without thinking
ADHD, Combined Type: This is the most common type and includes both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
ADHD Treatment for Adults
Managing ADHD requires a multifaceted approach:
Medication: Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can help improve attention and concentration by balancing the chemicals in the brain. Commonly prescribed medications include Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta, and Vyvanse.
Therapy: Behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychoeducation can be beneficial. It helps in understanding the condition and equipping individuals with strategies to manage their symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes: This includes regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and healthy eating habits. Additionally, working to minimize distractions when working and using tools and apps for reminders and organization can be beneficial as well.
Alternative Treatments: Some people with ADHD benefit from biofeedback, meditation, yoga, and certain dietary interventions. However, it’s crucial to discuss with a professional before trying any alternative treatment.
Neurofeedback Training: Improves brain functioning as the brain learns how to optimize output through biofeedback. This can be useful in training the brain to perceive situations more positively.
ADHD Impact on Adults
In addition to these difficulties, those with ADHD often struggle with feelings of failure. They may have anxiety because they worry about not getting stuff done that they need to complete. Adults with ADHD may feel as though they underperform at work. Some feel as though they perform well, but they have to try too hard and are tired. For some people, their relationships are impacted.
When learning how to manage ADHD as an adult, it helps to look for medical professionals who take a comprehensive look at the effects of those with ADHD and the relationships they have. For some, this may mean looking at therapies to manage the effects of ADHD and anxiety. For others, it may look at occupational therapies that seek to help adults with ADHD and their work. Regardless of the method, treating ADHD is rarely as simple as a prescription, and individuals struggling with ADHD need to look for healthcare professionals willing to look at all options.
Take The Next Steps
If this sounds like you, Mountain Vista Psychology can help. We offer a variety of services, from the initial ADHD diagnosis for adults to interventions and support so that you can better live life. You don’t have to keep struggling.
Call (720) 583-9332 to schedule an appointment or a free 20-minute phone consultation. You can join our email list or our Facebook page as another way to get helpful wellness inspiration and information.