Table of contents:
1- What is ADHD in adults?
2- What are the symptoms?
3- What are the causes?
4- What is the treatment?
5- How is the diagnosis?
What is ADHD in adults?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a congenital disorder, but it becomes more pronounced with age and can be confused with the forgetfulness of aging. Some adults are affected more and others less. The rate of ADHD in children is estimated to be 5%, while 50% to 70% of these children continue to have the disorder into adulthood.
What are the symptoms of ADHD in adults?
The most common symptoms of ADHD in adults are inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. This pathology can lead adults to unstable relationships, poor job performance and low self-esteem.
Unlike children, hyperactivity may decrease in adults, but impulsivity and difficulty paying attention increase. Generally we can detect an adult with ADHD because they seem not to listen when spoken to, frequently forget objects necessary for normal functioning, have difficulty organizing their responsibilities and have difficulty presenting sustained attention, among others.
The most common symptoms are inattention,
hyperactivity and impulsivity
What are the causes of ADHD in adults?
The origin of this disease is still under investigation, but there are some aspects that influence its appearance:
– Genetics: it has been established that ADHD has a strong hereditary component.
– The environment
– Physical problems during development, such as central nervous system disorders.
In addition, there are some risk factors that increase the chances of developing Attention Deficit Disorder:
- Relatives who have this pathology
- Use of tobacco, alcohol and other substances during pregnancy.
- Exposure to environmental toxins in childhood, such as lead.
- Premature birth.
What is the treatment of ADHD in adults?
The main treatments are:
- Psychological: uses therapies such as cognitive-behavioral and social skills training, as well as psychoeducational.
- Pharmacological: the medications used in Spain are methylphenidate, a psychostimulant, and atomoxetine, a non-psychostimulant.
Also, in the case of adults, it is recommended to follow these advices:
- Protect social relationships, avoid unpleasant situations of separation.
- Think before acting to calm impulsivity.
- Use diaries or notebooks to get organized.
- Establish routines to lead a more organized life.
- Take 10-minute breaks every two hours.
How is the diagnosis of ADHD in adults made?
An analysis of the patient’s clinical history should be made and, subsequently, questionnaires and neuropsychological tests should be carried out to examine the executive functions. The diagnosis is made by a specialist in psychology or psychiatry.
In order to determine that a person suffers from this pathology, certain criteria are followed. First, persistent patterns of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity that interfere with the patient’s daily life must be maintained for at least six months.
Secondly, it is important to establish whether the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms existed before the age of 12. In addition, they are usually symptoms that are present in two or more contexts.