Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a condition that makes it hard to pay attention. So you may have problems when you try to focus, get organized, and finish tasks. It might make you more active than other people. Or you might do things without thinking first.
ADHD is very common. It usually starts in early childhood. Many adults don't realize they have it until their children are diagnosed. Then they become aware of their own symptoms.
Doctors don't know what causes ADHD. But it often runs in families.
ADHD can be treated with medicines, behavior training, and counseling. Treatment can improve your life.
The most common types of ADHD symptoms in adults are attention problems and hyperactivity.
Adults with ADHD often find it hard to:
Adults with ADHD may:
ADHD can be treated with medicines, behavior training, or counseling. Or it may be a combination of these treatments.
Stimulant medicines are most often used to treat ADHD. These may include:
Other medicines that may be used are:
Behavior training can help adults with ADHD learn how to:
Counseling is not meant to treat inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsiveness. But it can help with some of the problems that go along with ADHD. These include not getting along well with others and having problems following rules.
ADHD in adults may affect:
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition in which people have a hard time paying attention. Adults with ADHD also may be more active than normal. They tend to act without thinking. ADHD may make it harder for them to focus, get organized, and finish tasks.
ADHD most often starts in childhood and lasts into adulthood. Many adults don't know that they have ADHD until their children are diagnosed. Then they begin to see their own symptoms.
Doctors don't know what causes ADHD. But it tends to run in families.
Behavioral strategies may help manage and treat the symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention, overactivity, or impulsivity. Here are some ideas you can try.
Find a daily organizer or planner that fits your needs. Write notes in your organizer about your appointments and other things you need to remember.
Your surroundings can be an important part of being organized. Set up your work area so that there are fewer distractions. You may find using headphones or a "white noise" machine helpful. If you're a college student, try to arrange a quiet living situation, such as a single dormitory room.
If you are impulsive, train yourself to stop and think before you act. If you tend to blurt out statements that you later regret, train yourself to write down the statement and think about whether it should be said out loud. If you have a problem with your temper, use this same "stop and think" method. If this does not work, talk with a health professional.
Social skills training can help you relate to family, friends, and coworkers. Also, marital counseling or family therapy can greatly improve your family relationships and overall family function.
Think ahead about situations where you think you may feel restless, and plan ways to keep yourself moving without affecting others. For example, take notes during meetings instead of fidgeting.
Learn as much as you can about ADHD and how its symptoms affect your life. Go online to find organizations for helpful information about the condition. Ask a doctor about local resources or books that may be helpful.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
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