ADHD, short for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects not just children but also adults. Many adults with ADHD also face challenges with anxiety and depression. Interestingly, several celebrities have openly shared their experiences with ADHD. Stars like Ryan Gosling, Will Smith, Emma Watson, Jim Carrey, and Justin Timberlake are among the famous faces living with this condition.

Dr. Achal Bhagat, senior consultant, psychiatrist, and psychotherapist at Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, explains about adult ADHD in a video for Apollo hospital’s YouTube channel. He explains that clinically there is no definite evidence as to what causes ADHD. But it is known there could be a genetic vulnerability and prenatal factors such as when a child is in mother’s womb and a mother’s health is affected or substance abuse at that point of time, there could be a presentation of ADHD. It leads to neurocircuitry changes in the brain and pruning of neurons as they should happen and does not happen. And this causes ADHD. 

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According to a 2016 study published in the journal ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders, about 2.8 per cent of adults worldwide have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
So, despite its prevalence, very few adults with ADHD get properly diagnosed and treated. Finding out you have ADHD as an adult can change your life. It helps you understand how ADHD has affected you before and gives you tools to create a better, happier future.

 

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Symptoms of Adult ADHD

In adults, ADHD often looks different than it does in children, and its symptoms vary from person to person. Here are some common symptoms of adult ADHD. Try to identify the areas where you struggle the most. 

• Unable to concentrate: Adults with ADHD often have difficulty sustaining attention, staying organised, and following through on tasks. Frequently losing track of conversations, reading material, or work assignments due to external stimuli like noises or movements. Missing appointments, misplacing keys, or forgetting to pay bills on time. Besides, struggling to maintain a tidy workspace, or manage a schedule can also be a major sign of adult ADHD. 
• Hyperfocus: While adults with ADHD may struggle with attention, they can also become intensely focused on tasks that interest them. For example, spending hours on a hobby or project and neglecting other responsibilities like eating, sleeping, or meeting deadlines. Hyperfocus may also look like getting lost in a book or TV show that you forget to complete household chores or work tasks.
• Impulsivity: Impulsivity in adults with ADHD can manifest as hasty decisions, interrupting others, or difficulty waiting for their turn. For instance, making spontaneous purchases without considering the budget or necessity. Also, frequently speaking out of turn or finishing others' sentences during discussions are some examples of being impulsive.
• Hyperactivity: Hyperactivity is usually more commonly associated with children, adults with ADHD may experience a sense of restlessness. Feeling an ongoing urge to move, such as tapping your feet, fidgeting, or difficulty staying seated for long periods. Apart from this, finding it hard to stay quiet, talking over others, or feeling the need to fill silences also comes under adult ADHD.
• Relationship Issues: The symptoms of ADHD can impact relationships with family, friends, and coworkers, often leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. If you're making inappropriate comments or decisions that can strain relationships, forget important details, interrupt conversations, or cause frustration for others then you may be suffering from ADHD. 

 

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Tips To Manage Adult ADHD

Many individuals with ADHD have found effective ways to manage their symptoms and lead productive, satisfying lives. You don't always need outside help right away—there's a lot you can do on your own to get your symptoms under control.

• Vigorous, regular exercise helps burn off excess energy and aggression, soothing and calming your body.
• Eat a variety of nutritious foods and limit sugary foods to help stabilise your mood.
• Being well-rested makes it easier to focus, manage stress, stay productive, and handle responsibilities.
• Turn off screens at least one hour before bed and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
• Practise better management skills. Create deadlines for everything, even small tasks. Stay on track with timers and alarms, and take regular breaks.
• Avoid procrastination by handling tasks as they come in.
• Plan activities with friends and keep your commitments.
• Listen carefully when others speak and avoid rushing your responses.
• Cultivate friendships with people who understand your ADHD challenges.
• Regular meditation can help calm your mind and give you more control over your emotions. 

 

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When to Seek Help?

If your ADHD symptoms are still disrupting your life despite your self-help efforts, it might be time to seek outside support. Several treatments can help adults with ADHD, including behavioural coaching, individual therapy, self-help groups, vocational counselling, educational assistance, and medication. 

Consult a UR.Life therapist who can help with depression, anxiety, relationships, and more.

 

It’s never too late to get diagnosed and treated for ADHD. ADHD doesn’t have to prevent you from living a fulfilling life and reaching your goals. With timely support and treatment, adults can effectively manage their symptoms and create a structure that helps them thrive. The first step toward making positive changes is getting a proper diagnosis.

 

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