Managing ADHD in adulthood
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects attention and focus, impacting many children and adults. While some might not receive a diagnosis until their adult years, ADHD typically develops during childhood.
“It’s pretty uncommon to see ADHD come about in adulthood,” said Dr. Andrew Wiese, psychologist and assistant professor in the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine. “The symptoms likely existed beforehand, but the person didn’t have awareness of those symptoms until they caused interference and became impairing or problematic.”
Adults with ADHD typically report difficulties with attention, staying focused, staying on top of work-related tasks and getting distracted. Usually, psychologists or psychiatrists diagnose patients with ADHD, but many patients are aware of their symptoms and start to suspect they have it based on their own anecdotes. Mental health professionals will also perform a standardized assessment battery to diagnose the condition.
According to Wiese, those struggling with ADHD might experience increased frustration and inability to complete tasks their peers are able to do, getting in the way of their work performance. If someone is not able to perform their duties, it can lead to feelings of depression, low mood, excessive worry or anxiety.
Pharmacological intervention is a path some might take to treat their ADHD, and a therapist will refer them to a psychiatrist to prescribe medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is another option to help the patient develop awareness for different tasks or situations where they may struggle with attention or focus.
“With CBT, we’re challenging some of the unhelpful thinking patterns they might have if they’re struggling with tasks to help give them a broader perspective of the context rather than defaulting into anxious or negative interpretations of what’s happening,” Wiese said.
Experts recommend using reminders, calendar apps, a planner or a journal to practice structure and staying on-task. Wiese also emphasizes the importance of involving loved ones, such as spouses, family members and friends, to provide perspective and encouragement. Basic education gives the family framework to support and be more empathetic toward those struggles.
“I’m a big proponent of involving family. They’re the people who care about you the most, so why not include them?” he said. “We involve them in our interventions because we want to give them the same education that we give our patients early on, so they know what to expect. Then, they can have some understanding of why it is their loved one is struggling with ADHD.”
By Homa Warren
