Understanding ADHD in Adults

ADHD has been well understood in the classroom. For a long time, ADHD has been well understood in children and treated for optimal growth in their maturing years. What about adults? What does ADHD look like later in life? How should we understand its effect on life and relationships? How do we treat the disorder for optimal living in the mature years? 

 

Show notes: 

What is ADHD? 

• ADHD stands for Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a brain disorder. Individuals with ADHD might find it difficult to focus, stay on task, calm and quiet themselves. 

What is the neuroscience behind ADHD? 

• ADHD is a delay in brain development. When certain neurotransmitters are unable to be balanced in the brain, ADHD will result. Two significant neurotransmitters out of balance in the ADHD brain are dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine promotes focus, motivation and reward. Norepinephrine regulates judgement and control. 

When does ADHD show up? 

• When ADHD is present, it will show up in childhood. However, the disorder does persist into adulthood. How ADHD is manifested through the aging process differs. For example, hyperactivity which manifests itself outward in youth is still present in an adult but is often experienced more inwardly. ADHD adults have an advantage over ADHD children because they have more control over their environment. For example, the classroom is imposed on the life of a child but a career conducive to an ADHD adult is within their control. 

How is ADHD diagnosed? 

• ADHD can be diagnosed at any point in a person’s life. Two methods for diagnosis are available: 

• A clinical diagnosis happens when a professional evaluates the presence of the disorder by interview. Through a holistic battery of questions to the client as well as those who live and work closely with them an ADHD determination can be given.  

• A neuro-psychological evaluation can be given by a professional. This approach includes cognitive skills assessments. 

• It is important to note that before “ruling in” ADHD, many things need to be “ruled out.” There are many confounding matters such as anxiety and depression that conflate the ADHD diagnosis.  

 

If someone suspects ADHD, should they get a diagnosis? 

• Yes and no. 

• Knowing what is contributing to pain is helpful in working through and finding remedies for it. If what an individual suspects to be ADHD is causing ongoing pain in their relationships and responsibilities, a diagnosis has purpose.  

• If very mild ADHD is present but not causing ongoing life disruption and pain, then a diagnosis may not be necessary. 

What are some “helps” for those with ADHD? 

• Two routes can be taken for assisting those with ADHD: 

• Therapy can be helpful in learning good coping, lifestyle management and relationship skills. These skills can help mitigate the pain ADHD can cause. 

• Because ADHD is an imbalance of neurotransmitters, medication is available to help bring balance where imbalance is present. 

Is having ADHD only negative in a person’s life? 

• Fortunately, many have lived well with their ADHD. Their brain is able to take in a lot of stimuli at the same time. Their activated state can produce many benefits such as creativity and ambition.