You may be surprised to learn that ADHD in adults is very common. It is estimated that over 8 million people over the age of 18 in the United States have been diagnosed with adult ADHD. Having ADHD as an adult can make employment, family life, and daily activities more difficult. While ADHD can be challenging to manage in adulthood, there are strategies that can be used to make the condition easier to handle.
This blog focuses on ADHD in adults and the strategies used to help people better cope with this disorder. Are you struggling with ADHD? Are you looking for effective treatment for addiction and ADHD in adults? Take the guesswork out of finding the perfect rehab program and call My Recovery Source toll-free today. Our dedicated team of experts will work with you to find the perfect treatment matches tailored for your needs. No matter your age, background, or finances, My Recovery Source can offer personalized addiction help and help you get on the road to recovery.
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The Difficulties Of Diagnosing ADHD In Adults
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can often be challenging. In many cases, adults with ADHD first experience symptoms in the preteen and teenage years but do not get a proper diagnosis. In many cases, their symptoms are often seen as just a sign of growing up and as a by-product of the massive changes in body and brain development.
When teens with ADHD grow into adulthood, the lack of diagnosis can cause other issues to arise. It is not uncommon for adults with undiagnosed ADHD to develop mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Even if an adult does get treatment for ADHD, the condition may return if that person has undiagnosed anxiety and depression. Additionally, about half of those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder also have ADHD.
Managing ADHD In Adults: Treatment
While addressing adult ADHD can be tricky, there are sound strategies that can be used to help those dealing with this condition live a healthy and fulfilling life. First and foremost, adults who have ADHD should seek professional mental health treatment. In the event that someone with ADHD also is dealing with a substance abuse issue, they need to seek dual diagnosis treatment where both addiction and mental health specialists can work together in designing a comprehensive long-term treatment plan.
Treatment programs for those with ADHD should feature evidence-based therapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). With CBT, therapists work with clients to identify negative thought patterns that keep clients stuck in their current behaviors. Once identified, therapists help clients develop healthy coping strategies that promote new and positive ways of thinking and acting.
ADHD treatment should also include some form of medication-assisted therapy (MAT). Common medications used in adult ADHD treatment include stimulant-based drugs such as Adderall and Ritalin. While these medications are effective, they must be closely prescribed and monitored by experienced medical personnel due to their high addiction potential. It is also highly advisable those with ADHD seek some form of aftercare programs that include additional therapy and life and coping skills training.
Managing ADHD In Adults: Everyday Coping Strategies
Beyond treatment, adults with ADHD can utilize strategies that make daily living easier to manage. First, adults with ADHD should find an effective way to organize their day. It is helpful to write down what needs to be done for the following day the night before. When organizing that list, it is important to focus on top priorities in order to maintain focus and energy. Second, it is important to establish a daily routine. This can include doing household chores during specific days of the week or hanging jackets on a particular hook and dropping keys in a specific area.
It is also wise to take big tasks or projects and break them down into several smaller steps that are easily achievable. When those smaller steps are completed, there is a profound sense of accomplishment. Additionally, adults with ADHD need to minimize distractions while at work. Steps that can be taken include during off notifications on cell phones and routing calls to voicemail. Wearing noise-canceling headphones may also work.
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