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1. What is Adult ADHD?
Adult ADHD is a neurological brain disorder that manifests as a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity that is more frequent and severe than is typically observed in individuals at a comparable level of development. ADHD which begins in childhood, and as has only recently been understood, can persist into adulthood as well. While some children outgrow ADHD, about 60% / 70% continue to have symptoms into adulthood. The disorder manifests differently in adults as hyperactivity tends to diminish.
2. What Causes Adult ADD?
Although the exact cause of ADD remains unknown, research has increased in the last decade. At present, the most likely cause of ADHD is believed to be genetic, but other causes have been implicated as well.
3. Is there a cure for ADHD?
Like other chronic disorders, ADHD is not curable. Some patients have a remission of the disease, and may lead productive adolescent and adult lives..
ADHD is treatable. Fortunately, research is progressing on many fronts, making the outlook for people with ADHD much more positive. Progress has been made toward better understanding this illness and its treatment, and scientists are using many approaches to learn more about what causes ADHD. While no single therapy has been devised that "cures" ADHD, many people with ADHD are able to lead more satisfying lives.
ADHD can have co morbid disorders with it such: learning disorders Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Opposite Define Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Tourettes Syndrome, Pervasive Personality disorder, Aspergers, Conduct disorder. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Sensory Integration Disorder.
Some examples of impulsiveness include:
- Speaking out of turn or interrupting during conversations
- Blurting out answers or opinions, even when inappropriate
- Over extending themselves by impulsively offering help or assistance
- Impulsive shopping or buying items when you can't afford them
- Making quick decisions without considering the consequences
- Not stopping to check details
- Not considering alternatives
The results of a survey raise awareness about the possibility that many children who have ADHD continue to have related symptoms as adults. It points to the need for long-term, follow-up assessments of children diagnosed with ADHD to determine if the disorder lingers past adolescence and into adulthood.
In the survey, those with attention deficit/hyperactivity symptoms were more likely divorced and unemployed or unable to work. They also tended to have more problems with alcohol and drug abuse—problems that are known to be associated with ADHD. In addition, the study found that while many people with ADHD problems are in treatment for other mental disorders and substance abuse, a smaller proportion receive treatment for their ADHD symptoms.
According to studies, anywhere from 24% to 30% of patients with ADHD also suffer from depression. In the past it was thought that depression may have been the result of constant failures due to ADHD symptoms. Therefore, if ADHD was successfully treated, the depression should disappear.
Many physicians will, therefore, treat the depression first, and, once that has been controlled will begin to treat the root problem ADHD. Depression becomes the “primary” diagnosis and ADHD becomes the “secondary” diagnosis.
Some of the risks of co-existing conditions (especially undiagnosed and untreated) are:
- Substance Abuse
- Development of Conduct Disorders
- Development of Bipolar Disorder
- Depression and Anxiety
- Suicide
- Aggressive or Anti-Social Behaviors
Dr. William Bailey states that if ADHD isn't treated before age 15, those children are three times more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol.
Some experts recommend that all individuals receiving a diagnosis of ADHD should also have a complete and thorough psychological evaluation to determine the presence (or absence) of any co-existing disorders. Once this has been completed, a treatment team, sometimes consisting of family physician, psychologist and psychiatrist, can work together to create a treatment plan geared specifically for that individual. Although there is no "cure" for ADHD, there are accepted treatments that specifically target its symptoms. The most common standard treatments include educational approaches, psychological or behavioral modification, coaching, and medication.
For further information, regarding the above, kindly contact us:
Tel: 00356 21233749
Email: adults@adhdmalta.org
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