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a man struggles with adult add

What is Adult ADD?

While attention deficit disorder (ADD) is one of the most common developmental disorders among children, less publicly recognized is the equally difficult adult ADD. While half to two-thirds of the children with ADHD or ADD carry it into adulthood, some children are simply not diagnosed with it until they reach adulthood and develop their own understanding of it themselves. 

Adult ADD Complications

Adult ADD has only recently become a concern, as more and more attention has been drawn to the number of incorrect or absent diagnoses in childhood. Many children with ADD/ADHD grow up labeled with learning disabilities or personality disorders, and lack the appropriate help and care; others receive no help at all and are simply labeled boisterous.

Because of this, underlying problems may develop into adulthood as an attempt to deal with the impairments this disorder can present. Difficulty maintaining strong relationships, excessive aggressiveness or depression, and even substance abuse may become present when proper help is not given. Even with a solid diagnosis, many ADD sufferers may struggle to perform in school or the workplace, get into frequent trouble or accidents, and have difficulty balancing finances. 

Adult ADD Diagnosis

In order to accurately diagnose adult ADD, a visit to a psychologist or psychiatrist is necessary. The psychologist will give a verbal interview about both past and present quality of life, performance, relationships, and other related history and current affairs. It is often quite helpful to have a family member (such as a parent, sibling, or spouse) present, not only for moral support but to help answer questions, sometimes from a more objective point of view. It’s extremely important that this person understand they are there to be supportive and helpful for the patient, not themselves. 

Following this, a questionnaire may be given to assist in the specific diagnosis of type. If the current symptoms of inattentiveness or hyperactivity were not present in childhood, ADD is not a likely diagnosis. Additionally, whether child or adult, at least six symptoms in the requisite category or categories must be present for at least six months and in two different settings (such as home and work). Perhaps the most important issue that must be present is that the symptoms are creating a significant impairment at work, school, or in relationships.

Adult ADD Treatment  

Treatment may be given either through medication or counseling. A stimulant is often prescribed, as ADD patients respond differently to such chemicals. Rather than creating an energetic, frenzied feeling, it provides the ability to focus and calm down. Antidepressants are another common medication that is useful in controlling ADD, as well as some of its complications. However, it is important to understand the side effects before embarking on long term use of such medication. 

Alternatively, counseling can help as a sort of teaching mechanism. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is currently the preferred method of psychotherapy in such patients, as it allows them to begin to understand behavioral patterns and learn to manage things differently, while coping with problematic behavior and feelings. Behavioral therapy is also used as a method of dealing with current problems by changing behavior, often using a reward system. In some instances, the patient may need additional counseling or support. Social skills training may help with relationships, and joining a support group can help individuals cope with strong feelings and undergoing such changes in an empathetic atmosphere. 

Last Updated: September 17, 2015