Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically manifests in childhood. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are its most common characteristics. It was believed that ADHD is a disorder that only affected children. However, over the past few decades, researchers have discovered that attention related problems may persist into adulthood too.
Adult ADHD is a new concept in psychiatry. Earlier, ADHD was considered as a disorder in children. But in the early 20th century, researchers began to study ADHD in adults. Initially, experts were skeptical about adult ADHD. But over time, it was clear that this disorder is real and can have a significant impact on an individual’s personal and professional life.
Main challenge in identifying and diagnosing adult ADHD is that the symptoms can be subtle and easily overlooked. Unlike children who are often hyperactive and impulsive, adults with ADHD may be less outwardly disruptive. They may struggle with organizing tasks at home or work, have difficulty concentrating, or struggle to complete tasks on time. They may also have difficulty with time management, planning, and prioritization, and they may be forgetful or easily distracted.
Adults with ADHD are more likely to struggle with maintaining relationships. They couldn’t maintain emotional connect with their partner, because its difficult to understand other’s emotions and feelings. Switching employment, having higher risk of substance abuse and other mental health issues are some other real life challenges.
The most common type of ADHD is the combined type, characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, some individuals with attention problems may primarily struggle with inattention, while others may primarily struggle with hyperactivity and impulsivity.
In addition to these primary symptoms, adults with ADHD may also struggle with a range of secondary symptoms. For example, they may experience mood swings, have difficulty regulating their emotions, or struggle with anger management. They may also have difficulty with social skills, tend to interrupt others, or have difficulty with impulse control.
Managing Adult ADHD: Unleashing Full Potential
- Therapy: Therapies & life style modifications can help individuals with ADHD develop coping skills and strategies to manage their symptoms.
- Develop Routines: Scheduling for daily activities, such as exercising, eating, and sleeping, can help reduce impulsivity and boost confidence.
- Practice Mindfulness: Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga, can help individuals with ADHD to focus and reduce stress and anxiety.
- Exercise: Exercise is an effective way to manage ADHD symptoms. Regular physical activity can help improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and decrease hyperactivity.
- Organization: This can include using calendars, planners, and to-do lists to keep track of tasks and appointments.
- Avoid Multitasking: Multitasking can be overwhelming for individuals with ADHD. Instead, focus on one task at a time. Limit distractions, such as turning off notifications on your phone or computer.
- Build a Support System: Building a support system of friends, family, and professionals can be helpful in managing ADHD symptoms. Support groups can also be a helpful resource for individuals with ADHD.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that bring joy, can improve overall well-being.
- Seek Professional Help:In some cases, seeking professional help, creating an individualized treatment plan to address specific needs are useful.
- Medication: Managing adult ADHD with medications are sometimes in some cases.
How LMonk can help?
Diagnosis: The first step in treating adult ADHD is to get an accurate diagnosis. It helps to plan future therapy sessions.
Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapy like CBT can help individuals develop coping skills and strategies to manage their daily routines.
Executive Functioning Training:This training focuses on improving the cognitive processes related to planning, organization, and decision-making. It can help individuals with ADHD develop strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their daily functioning.
Medications: In some cases, individuals with ADHD features might need help from medical professional (Psychiatrist). Taking medications along with psychotherapies may help reduce the symptoms.
If managed properly, ADHD can be a blessing. By understanding the individual’s needs and with complete support from family and friends, the individual can showcase their actual potential.