Everyone is busy and often overwhelmed with life in today’s world. So much so that ADHD, or Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, often goes undiagnosed, and its symptoms are simply brushed off as adult stress. 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health offices, ADHD is defined as a persistent pattern of impulsivity or inattention that can interfere with a person’s development and functioning. 

In adults, undiagnosed ADHD can become problematic and appears in a variety of ways which we don’t always associate with the disorder. Symptoms include difficulty focusing, inability to pay attention, feelings of restlessness, and impulsiveness. 

These symptoms can appear physically as missing deadlines, forgetting social plans, impatience, sudden outbursts, and mood swings. Overall, adults with undiagnosed ADHD often have difficulty going about normal day-to-day activities and can appear irresponsible and insensitive to others. 

Various things can trigger ADHD in adults. Determining a person’s trigger point is the first step to managing it. The most common triggers include: 

• Stress 
• Technology 
• Poor sleep quality 
• Specific foods and additives 
• Overstimulation 

Several conditions can mimic the symptoms of ADHD, and these include: 

• Anxiety 
• Depression 
• Sleep issues 
• Hearing problems 
• Cognitive Disabilities 
• Substance Abuse 

Any of these can lead to difficulties in behavior and often be blamed before considering ADHD as a diagnosis. 

Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults:

An Adult ADHD diagnosis, however, is often difficult to ascertain. In most cases, ADHD starts in childhood, and the symptoms will then follow the child into adulthood. 

While there is no simple way to diagnose ADHD in adults, steps to take include: 

• A physical examination to rule out other possibilities. 
• Compiling information on current medical conditions, related symptoms, and family medical history. 
• Psychological tests or rating scales to assist in the evaluation. 

Treatment:

Once an adult is diagnosed with ADHD, treatment options to manage the disorder can vary. In most cases, a combination of the following is recommended. 

• Prescription Medications 
• Psychological Counseling 
• Lifestyle Changes 
• Meditation and mindfulness 

There is help for ADHD in adults, starting with an accurate diagnosis and managing the disorder to improve one’s overall quality of life. 

Axiom Medical Can Help!

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