Getting to Know the Indicators and Therapy for Adulthood Attention Deficit Disorder

Nov 26
09:22

2008

Trevor Price

Trevor Price

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The symptoms of attention deficit disorder may appear obvious. Those afflicted with it seem to be in perpetual motion. They can't sit still, hate waiting and are constantly interrupting.

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Though the symptoms of attention deficit disorder may seem obviously apparent,Getting to Know the Indicators and Therapy for Adulthood Attention Deficit Disorder Articles the disorder often goes undiagnosed in adults. People dealing with it might be constantly fidgeting, easily aggravated, chronically impatient or unable to focus on a task. They may jump from activity to activity or have trouble concentrating.

But, are these hyperactive youngsters? No, they're adults. Though attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is the most common diagnosis in child psychiatry, it can also be very prevalent in adults, and the symptoms are often either harder to spot or chalked up to daily stress. To learn more about adult ADHD, including its symptoms and where to go for help, keep reading.

How Common is Adult ADHD?

About 1 to 2% of adult men and women, or roughly 5 million Americans, have problems maintaining attention or controlling their movements and impulses. ADHD refers to a spectrum of difficulties in restraining motion and paying attention.

Unfortunately, the symptoms they suffer from are often harder to spot and will be missed by doctors and even the patient themselves.

The Symptoms of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

-Constant fidgeting, moving, shifting or restlessness

-An inability to sustain any form of focused activity (like reading) for a long period of time

-An inability to remember small details and constantly being distracted

-Difficulty focusing on conversations or speeches, particularly at work

-Impatience - for example, irritable when forced to wait in line or traffic

-Pronounced mood swings that run from depression and unhappiness to high energy excitement and happiness

-Disorganization, inability to finish tasks

-Time management and punctuality problems

-Aggressive or irritable personality reflected in a hot and easily flared temper

-Impulsiveness in decision making and in starting or ending relationships

-Low tolerance for stress and otherwise ordinary hassles

-Clumsiness, poor body image, little sense of direction

-Immaturity

Instead of running around the room, breaking things and throwing toys on the floor like a child with ADHD may do, an adult with the disorder will simply constantly be in motion. They'll often tap their feet, fidget with their hands or move around in their chair.

Getting Help With the Adult Onset

If you suspect that you or someone you love has a problem with this disorder, find a physician who understands the problem. You can either contact pediatricians who know local doctors specializing in attention disorders or seek a referral through a group like the Attention-Deficit Disorder Association (1-800-487-2282).

Remember, many people mistake the symptoms of attention deficit disorder for either daily stress or possible mental illness. Avoid misdiagnoses by talking to your doctor about your concerns. Adult ADHD can be treated, often with the same drugs and treatment methods used to treat childhood ADHD.