adhd
Do you often feel like your mind is racing, making it difficult to focus? Or maybe you struggle with distractions and find it challenging to manage your time? These can all be signs of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and we understand how overwhelming it can be to cope with these symptoms.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily affects attention, focus, and impulse control. While it often begins in childhood, many adults are diagnosed later in life as symptoms continue or emerge in new ways. Adult ADHD is not a reflection of laziness or lack of motivation, it's a condition rooted in neurological differences and there are ways to help manage it. While everyone experiences forgetfulness or trouble concentrating from time to time, ADHD symptoms are more persistent and disruptive. There are three primary types of ADHD:
Predominantly Inattentive
This type is more common in adults and often goes undiagnosed. Key signs include:
Executive Function Challenges: Struggles with planning, time management, working memory, and task prioritization are common.
Disorganization and Forgetfulness: Losing track of important items like keys or papers and missing deadlines regularly.
Easily Distracted: External and internal distractions make it difficult to stay focused on tasks.
Difficulty Completing Tasks: You may start projects but have trouble finishing them due to procrastination or loss of interest.
Difficulty Focusing: Concentrating on conversations, reading, or completing tasks becomes a challenge as the mind frequently wanders.
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive
This type is less common in adults but still affects some. Symptoms include:
Restlessness and Fidgeting: Feeling the need to move constantly, such as tapping feet or fidgeting with objects.
Impulsivity: Making hasty decisions, interrupting others, or acting without considering consequences.
Feeling on Edge: A constant sense of internal tension or being "wired."
Excessive Talking: Talking without pause, interrupting, or saying things impulsively that might be regretted later.
Difficulty with Quiet Tasks: Struggling to engage in quiet or relaxing activities without feeling restless.
Combined Type
This is the most common type of ADHD, involving symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types.
Combination of Symptoms: Individuals with combined type ADHD experience difficulties with executive function, distractibility, fidgeting, and impulsive behaviors.
Widespread Impact: About 70% of adults with ADHD have the combined type, which can affect multiple areas of life, including work, relationships, and self-esteem.
how is adhd diagnosed
Diagnosing Adult ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation by one of our psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners specializing in ADHD. Here’s what you can expect during the diagnostic process:
In-Depth Interview: We'll discuss your current symptoms, personal and family history, and any past experiences that may indicate ADHD.
Clinical Testing: Integrative Mind uses clinically validated scales and questionnaires to assess ADHD symptoms and determine their impact on your life.
Co-occurring Conditions: We will evaluate for any co-occurring conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, or trauma that may need to be addressed in conjunction with ADHD.
how is adhd treated
Treating ADHD often involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Stimulant medications, such as Ritalin, Concerta, and Adderall XR, are first-line treatments that help increase dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to improve focus, attention, and impulse control. For those who cannot use stimulants, non-stimulant options are effective alternatives in managing symptoms like impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Beyond medication, complementary treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help address procrastination, disorganization, and emotional dysregulation. Meditation, mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can also contribute to improved focus and stress reduction. Supplements, including Omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, and magnesium may also provide additional support for cognitive function and relaxation.