According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), ʺattention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 30 to 50 percent of adults who had ADHD in childhood.ʺ
Like childhood ADHD, adult ADHD is manageable and treatable.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) stated, ʺTo be diagnosed with the condition, an adult must have ADHD symptoms that began in childhood and continued throughout adulthood.ʺ
Also, there are many adults, who are actively participating in work and life, and they do not realize they have ADHD. Many were never diagnosed with ADHD when they were children.
The NIHM website stated some symptoms of ADHD in adults include:
• A history of failure at school
• Issues at work
• Failed or difficult relationships
• Multiple traffic accidents
• Restlessness
• Trying to do several things at once, most of them unsuccessfully
• Prefer "quick fixes" rather than taking the steps needed to achieve greater rewards
Interestingly enough, the NIHM also said, ʺ[Adults with ADHD] may feel that it is impossible to get organized, stick to a job, or remember and keep appointments. Daily tasks such as getting up in the morning, preparing to leave the house for work, arriving at work on time, and being productive on the job can be especially challenging for [adults with ADHD]."
If you or your loved one are having multiple symptoms or signs of ADHD, you may want to contact a licensed mental health professional. Also, keep in mind that there is not a single test which diagnoses ADHD. Find a mental health professional that you trust. They will ask you questions regarding your family history, your childhood history, work and school history. They may also want to interview your spouse or significant other. You may also be asked to take a full medical exam and some psychological tests.
The AAFP stated, ʺAdults with ADHD should be educated about their elevated risk for drug and alcohol dependence and should be encouraged to drink in moderation or practice abstinence.ʺ
Treatment for ADHD includes therapy and/or medications. However, you may also benefit from an ADHD support group. The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) website provides a directory of ADHD support groups. Click the following link for the international list: http://031df74.netsolhost.com/Downloads/States.pdf
The AAFP’s website recommends these self-management strategies for ADHD adults:
• Go to work early to accomplish tasks before coworkers arrive and phones begin ringing
• Placing a calendar with important dates and deadlines in a central location in the home or workplace
• Systematically breaking down large projects into manageable "chunks," each with its own deadline
• Reduce distractions (have a clutter-free desk, a carrel-style desk, a windowless office, etc.)
Finally, the CDC offers a plethora of ADHD resources. For example, the CDC offers a wealth of information at http://www.help4adhd.org/ or you can call 1.800.233.4050 for additional ADHD information. The services are also available in Spanish.
References:
AAFP – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). American Academy of Family Physicians. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from http://www.aafp.org/afp/20001101/2077.html
NIMH – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/complete-index.shtml
CDC - ADHD, Facts - NCBDDD. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html
Reviewed November 10, 2011
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith