Adult ADHD (Attention- Deficit/ Hyper Activity Disorder)

adult adhd

Sometimes, when people think of ADHD ( Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), they associate it with children, But, did you know that around 4-5 % of adults have ADHD? Every adult who has ADHD had it as a child. Some were diagnosed in childhood, but others found out much later in life. Typically, symptoms can change over time, so adults may find different symptoms from when they were children. While hyperactivity may become less prominent, difficulties with attention, organization, and impulse control can persist or even become more noticeable in adulthood. Adult ADHD can have a significant impact on various aspects of life including work, school, relationships, and personal well-being. ADHD is considered to be a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that significantly impacts a person’s daily functioning and quality of life. The symptoms of adult ADHD can vary but generally include:

  1. Inattention: Difficulty sustaining focus, being easily distracted, making careless mistakes, struggling with organization and time management, having trouble following through on tasks or instructions.
  2. Hyperactivity: Restlessness, difficulty staying still, excessive talking, feeling a constant need for activity or movement.
  3. Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, difficulty waiting their turn, making impulsive decisions without considering the consequences.

To receive a diagnosis of adult ADHD, a formal evaluation is necessary. This process typically involves a clinical interview, a review of symptoms and medical history, and assessment scales/questionnaires. Diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. There are a few well recognized and researched ways to manage adult ADHD. 

  1. Medication: Medicine can be highly effective in managing the symptoms of ADHD. There are different types of medications used for ADHD, including stimulant medications and non-stimulant medications. Medication can be prescribed by a medical doctor or psychiatrist.
  2. Neurofeedback therapy: Neurofeedback therapy is an evidenced based treatment for ADHD. It is a non-invasive therapeutic technique that aims to train individuals to self-regulate their brainwave patterns. Individuals with ADHD may have abnormal or dysregulated brainwave patterns. By providing feedback to individuals to balance their brainwave activity, ADHD symptoms can greatly improve.  
  3. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely used therapeutic approach for ADHD. It focuses on helping individuals develop specific skills and strategies to manage their symptoms. Things such as coping, organization, and time management skills may be a part of CBT training. In general, CBT helps individuals identify unhelpful patterns or thoughts and replace them with more adaptive ones. CBT explores the connection among thoughts, emotions and behaviors.  

Some adults have known they have ADHD for a long time, while others have just found out! In any event, ADHD can be impactful and challenging at times. If you struggle with ADHD, you are not alone. Managing adult ADHD is a personal experience and needs can vary. Working with healthcare and mental health professionals can greatly assist in managing symptoms and overall wellbeing. At Mountain Vista Psychology, we are here to support you along the way! Reach out to us today!

Categories

Schedule a FREE Consultation

We believe in an integrative and holistic approach to help you make the changes you want. Contact us now to schedule an appointment or to request a 20 minute free phone consultation. During this session, you will be invited to share your story and ask any questions you may have.

Recent Articles

A therapist reviews intake forms with a client during an in-person or online therapy session that takes insurance, including anxiety therapy in Littleton, CO and ADHD testing options.

What to Expect in Counseling: A Guide to Therapy & Using UnitedHealthcare

If you have ever thought about going to counseling but were not sure what to expect, you are not alone! …

A conceptual staircase leading to a glowing question mark, symbolizing the rise of ADHD that can be addressed through ADHD therapy in Littleton, CO and online therapy in Colorado, especially for those seeking an ADHD evaluation near me.

Is ADHD Actually On “The Rise?”

You might have heard that more and more people are being diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Over the past few…

Man sits alone on a mountain ledge, reflecting on life—a powerful representation of autism treatment for adults in Colorado and the quiet strength found in working with an autism therapist in Greenwood Village, CO and accessing online therapy that takes Medicaid.

Understanding Autism in Adults

When most people think about autism, they often picture young children navigating early development and mental health. But autism is…

Image of a man waving at a laptop screen. Discover the benefits of online therapy in Colorado. Gain convenient access to couples counseling, treatment for depression and anxiety, and EMDR online in Denver, CO.

Online Counseling vs. In-Person: What Is Right For You?

If you have been considering therapy but are not sure where to start, you are not alone! Starting the process…