Adult ADHD is not frequently acknowledged, as ADHD is more common for younger individuals. What are the causes of adult ADHD, its symptoms, and how to cope with it?
Children’s most common mental disorder is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, surprising findings from a recent study indicate that ADHD could impact adults on a large scale despite previously thought.
Not all adults with ADHD will display symptoms in the same way or to the same degree, and you may undoubtedly see changes in the way the symptoms manifest themselves based on different ages and stages of life.
Here’s what you need to know about adult ADHD.
What are the Causes of ADHD?
As of yet, no specific cause of ADHD has been identified. It has been shown that genetics can affect the condition. Some other factors that may aid in the evolution of ADHD include being pre-born, brain injury, and sometimes the mother smoking, using alcohol, or having extreme stress during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of ADHD in Adults?
Many adults don’t realize that they are diagnosed with ADHD. An overall assessment which include previous and ongoing symptoms, a medical exam and history, and adult rating scales or checklists are used.
Symptoms of ADHD in adults include:
Inattentive type, the following symptoms occur frequently:
- Lack of attention to details or doing careless mistakes.
- Concentration and listening problems
- Problems following instructions.
- Lack of organization
- Forgetfulness
Hyperactive/impulsive type, the following symptoms occur frequently:
- Fidgeting with or tapping hands or feet, or squirming in their seat.
- Inability to stay seated.
- Excessive talking
- Having difficulty waiting for their turn.
Other common symptoms of adult ADHD may also include excessive distractibility, spacing out, problems with memory, frequently losing things, trouble organizing steps in a project, chronic lateness; procrastination; difficulty starting and finishing tasks; and careless mistakes.
Adults with ADHD are usually treated with medication, psychotherapy, or a combination. Behavior management strategies, such as ways to minimize distractions and increase structure and organization, and involving immediate family members can also be helpful.
How to cope with ADHD?
- Get Organized
Being organized helps you manage activities and time efficiently, and removes distractions and potential frustration from your day. Waking up and knowing what to expect gives you control over your responsibilities and activities. Write down a schedule for yourself every night for the following day. Sometimes crossing out tasks that have been done can boost a positive sense of accomplishment.
- Minimize distractions
When you have work that requires a higher concentration level, try to minimize your distractions. This can help you in keeping your focus for longer periods. Also, simplify your surroundings at home try to remove any distractions that can help in improving your focus.
- Identify your concentration times
Utilize your internal clock to your benefit. For instance, if you are a morning person- having high levels of productivity early-organize your day based on that. Also, look for jobs that will allow you to be comfortable in your schedule to benefit from your productive patterns.
- Respect your limits
Many people pressure themselves by handling more tasks than they can manage or underestimating the amount of time they need to get things done. Nothing creates more pressure than committing yourself beyond your limits day after day. Failing to deliver on your promises will leave you feeling more scattered than usual.
Coping with adult ADHD can be a challenging experience, but you can achieve it using the proper methods, attitude, and patience. Hang on!