Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition in which a person has trouble paying attention and focusing on tasks, tends to act without thinking and has trouble sitting still. It may begin in early childhood and can continue into adulthood. Without treatment, ADHD can cause problems at home, school, work and with relationships. In the past, ADHD was called attention deficit disorder (ADD).
Adult ADHD Symptoms
The three types of Adult ADHD symptoms include:
- Trouble paying attention. People with Adult ADHD are easily distracted and have a hard time focusing on any one task.
- Trouble sitting still for even a short time. This is called hyperactivity. Teens and adults often feel restless and fidgety and are not able to enjoy reading or other quiet activities.
- Acting before thinking. People with Adult ADHD may talk too loud, laugh too loud or become angrier than necessary in certain situations. Teens and adults seem to "leap before they look." They may make quick decisions that have a long-term impact on their lives. They may spend too much money or change jobs often.
Adult ADHD Diagnosis
Adult ADHD is diagnosed through a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist or in some cases with formal neuropsychological testing to assess a person’s thinking abilities.
Screening questionnaires such as the Adult ADHD Self Report Scale (ASRS-V1.1) are used. In addition, patient reports from family, colleagues and employers are often employed to get a sense of the impact Adult ADHD has on others. Take the ASRS-V1.1 »
Adult ADHD Treatment Options
Although there is no cure, treatment may help control Adult ADHD symptoms. Treatment may include medicines and behavior therapy. Therapy focuses on making changes in the environment to improve the child’s behavior.
For More Information
For more information on Adult ADHD or to schedule an appointment, please call 847.425.6400.