Becoming Familiar with the Signs and Treatment of Adult Attention Deficit Disorder

Though the symptoms of attention deficit disorder may seem obviously apparent, the disorder often goes undiagnosed in adults. People dealing with it might be constantly fidgeting, easily aggravated, chronically impatient or unable to focus on a task. They may jump from activity to activity or have trouble concentrating.

But, are these hyperactive youngsters? No, they're adults. Though attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is the most common diagnosis in child psychiatry, it can also be very prevalent in adults, and the symptoms are often either harder to spot or chalked up to daily stress. To learn more about adult ADHD, including its symptoms and where to go for help, keep reading.

How Common is Adult ADHD?

Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder affects approximately 5 million American adults. These impacted individuals have trouble controlling their impulses or their ability to concentrate and focus.

Symptoms of attention deficit disorder are often harder to spot and diagnose among adults than among children.

The Symptoms of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

-Constant fidgeting, moving, shifting or restlessness

-An inability to sustain any form of focused activity (like reading) for a long period of time

-An inability to remember small details and constantly being distracted

-Difficulty focusing on conversations or speeches, particularly at work

-Difficulty waiting, extreme irritation when stuck in traffic

-Pronounced mood swings that run from depression and unhappiness to high energy excitement and happiness

-Failure to stay on a single task, and instead jumping from task to task

-Difficulty solving problems or managing time

-Aggressive or irritable personality reflected in a hot and easily flared temper

-Impulsive decision making - for example, with relationships or purchasing decisions

-Easily frustrated and unable to handle stress and everyday hurdles

-Clumsiness, poor body image, little sense of direction

-Immaturity

Instead of running around the room, breaking things and throwing toys on the floor like a child with ADHD may do, an adult with the disorder will simply constantly be in motion. They'll often tap their feet, fidget with their hands or move around in their chair.

Getting Help With the Adult Onset

If you suspect that you or someone you love has a problem with this disorder, find a physician who understands the problem. You can either contact pediatricians who know local doctors specializing in attention disorders or seek a referral through a group like the Attention-Deficit Disorder Association (1-800-487-2282).

And remember, though the symptoms of attention deficit disorder may seem similar to those often associated with stress, adults need to be serious about attending to this often debilitating disorder. It can be treated - and with the right drug treatment program administered by an experienced doctor, having adult ADHD treated is a life-changing experience.

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