ADHD in Adults: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Do You Have ADHD?

The exact cause of ADHD remains elusive to researchers. But most studies attribute the cause of this condition to differences in brain structure and functionality. Such individuals are described as "Neurodivergent." This term also describes other disorders associated with brain functionality, like Autism and Dyslexia.

It is important to know that people with neurodivergence do not lack something in their brains. Just as no two people have the same fingerprints, no two can have the same brain. It is not a deficit; it is a difference.

An imbalance of neurotransmitters like Dopamine and Norepinephrine is said to be responsible for many of the symptoms of ADHD, like poor short-term memory and cognition.

Empirical studies have also indicated that genetics and environmental risks play a significant role in contributing to ADHD. Consuming tobacco and nicotine during pregnancy and premature birth may also be additional risk factors for ADHD.

Types of ADHD

There are three main types of ADHD:

1. Hyperactive or Impulsive ADHD: Such people are physically and mentally restless, impatient, and may talk a lot.
2. Inattentive or distractible ADHD: Such people face difficulties in organisation, have poor time management, and often don't initiate or complete tasks that require focusing.
3. Combined ADHD: Such people exhibit symptoms of both types of ADHD.

Adult ADHD Symptoms

Most people believe that by the time children with ADHD become adults, their brains must be fully developed, and as a consequence, they simply grow out of this condition. It is not true. More than 50% of children with ADHD show signs of adult ADHD as they grow older. They feel the full brunt of the symptoms, especially when entering a professional working environment.

Some common symptoms of adults with ADHD are:

• Impulsiveness
• Disorganisation and problems prioritising
• Poor time management skills
• Problems focusing on a task
• Trouble multitasking
• Excessive activity or restlessness
• Poor planning
• Low frustration tolerance
• Frequent mood swings
• Problems following through and completing tasks
• Hot temper
• Trouble coping with stress

Women are less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than men. Due to cultural stereotypes, things like excessive talking, lack of attention, and mood swings are often written off. It often results in them being under-diagnosed or misdiagnosed. Find out more about female adult ADHD in our detailed post.

Most people lack a proper understanding of what ADHD is. It is not true that people with this disorder cannot focus on anything at all. They are just incapable of focusing on something that doesn't interest them. They often "hyperfocus" on things that actually interest them. "Why can't you do this when you can do that?" is something they may often hear.

Several years ago, ADHD was about unruly, lazy boys with behavioural issues. Thankfully, people have evolved past that idea. Being unable to wait in a queue, not paying attention to a boring speaker, and interrupting someone rudely are the least of their problems.

Their inability to behave the same way other 'neurotypical' people puts them at the receiving end of overwhelming amounts of stress. Comments like "You are too chatty", "Why are you so impatient?", "Can't you just sit still?" and so on can be a huge blow to their self-esteem and confidence. It may also cause them to withdraw from active social life and make it harder to form healthy relationships.

With a hyperactive thought process, falling asleep isn't easy either. This, in turn, may cause more anxiety.

Studies have shown that people with ADHD are more likely to have Sleep Apnea and Restless leg Syndrome.

It is also harder for them to stick to a healthy diet. They may forget a meal, be picky eaters, or eat impulsively.

If you have ADHD, you are also more likely to have other psychiatric issues like autism, anxiety, sleep disorders, mood swings, and substance abuse, or non-psychiatric illnesses such as migraine, obesity, and epilepsy.

Diagnosis

Signs of ADHD are usually seen before the age of 12. But in many cases, people may not receive a formal diagnosis until adulthood.

"There are some people who have this where you can see it from early childhood. There are others where you don't see it much in the early years of their schooling," stated Dr. Thomas E. Brown, an ADD/ADHD Specialist. "There are some whose parents are so effective in building a scaffolding around them that you don't even see the problem until they get up into high school."

Adult ADHD assessment is harder for adults, as they may have other conditions like anxiety or stress. If you suspect that you have ADHD, try completing an ADHD Quiz like the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) or the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS).

ADHD tests, although quick and effective, are not 100% accurate. If you feel like, "Hey, that's me", speak to your General Practitioner (GP) or a psychiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and choose an appropriate treatment plan.

Is this a Disability?

Yes, The Disability Discrimination Act of 1992 recognises ADHD as a disability, however it's not common to receive NDIS support for ADHD. It's common for people with ADHD to have other conditions that are more likely to be covered by NDIS, so ADHD is rarely the primary condition for receiving NDIS support.

Treatments & Living with ADHD

While it is understandable that some people are averse to being labelled, getting an official diagnosis may help you understand how to combat the challenges you face due to ADHD.

There is no permanent cure for ADHD. As Dr Brown stated, it is not strep throat. You cannot just take a dose of antibiotics and get rid of it. However, there are several ways to manage the negative impacts of ADHD. Treatment for adult ADHD often includes a combination of therapies and medications.

Therapy

Before opting for medications for adult ADHD treatment, most psychiatrists study the symptoms that affect you personally. Your work life, personal life, stress triggers, and experiences may differ from other adults with ADHD. Behavioural therapies like CBT or Social skills training can improve the overall quality of life of the affected individual. Therapies can also help you positively channel your symptoms.

Medications

Stimulants like Amphetamines are very effective in treating adults. These drugs increase brain or nervous system activity, making you feel more alert and energetic (like caffeine). If someone is prone to substance abuse, they are treated with non-stimulant medications like Atomoxetine. The medication prescribed to you will also depend on what other comorbidities (more than one disease or disorder) you have—for example, depression.

Adult ADHD And Relationships

Living with ADHD or living with someone who has ADHD can be emotionally draining. A person affected with ADHD may constantly forget an anniversary or an important task given to them. Constantly having to remind them or handle things on your own can be frustrating. At the same time, having ADHD may make you feel lonely or unloved or ignored.

However, try to understand that ADHD symptoms do not define someone. Such people do not intend to break promises or ignore their responsibilities. Forgetting an errand or zoning out during an important conversation can make them feel like a failure. Their actions are not overwhelming for you alone. Accompanying a family member or a friend with ADHD to their therapy sessions can help you better empathise with them.

Final Thoughts

There is a lot of stigma associated with mental disabilities. It is not very pleasant to be branded as incompetent or crazy. Taking charge of Adult ADHD and dealing with it may cause you a lot of anxiety. However, it doesn't mean you aren't as smart as your peers.

While you are different from the rest, not all these differences are bad. Your overactive brain can make it easier to think of 'out-of-the-box' ideas. Your ability to hyperfocus on things you like does not always hinder your career. It might help you find your passion and achieve your goals. Although ADHD has no cure, you can still have a great future with the right treatment and support.

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As an adult in Australia with ADHD, you're part of a vibrant community of approximately one in 20 adults living with this condition. Remember, ADHD isn't a barrier but rather a different way of perceiving the world, bringing its own strengths and challenges.