Concentration problems, constant movement or inner restlessness – not only children, but also adults can have ADHD. You can read about the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder here.
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What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder – ADHD for short – is referred to as a mental disorder by the Federal Ministry of Health. Around 2 to 6 percent of all children and adolescents suffer from ADHD. ADHD is characterized by hyperactivity (excessive urge to move), inattention (impaired ability to concentrate) and impulsiveness (imprudent action).
In order to diagnose ADHD correctly, the abnormalities must appear over a longer period of time and in different areas of the child’s life. The diagnosis and treatment are carried out after a differentiated examination by a doctor or psychotherapist.
Adults can have ADHD too
ADHD does not only affect children, adults can also have the syndrome. ADHD was either diagnosed in childhood or at a later point in time. Reduced alertness can be observed in all affected adults with ADHD. Hyperactivity and impulsiveness, which are very pronounced in children and adolescents, decrease in adulthood. Instead, adults with ADHD are internally restless and more erratic than other people.
ADHD can make people’s professional and personal lives difficult. Those affected have problems adhering to structures. For example, they forget appointments, don’t meet deadlines or have trouble concentrating at work.
Symptoms of ADHD in adults
In adults, ADHD manifests itself through the following symptoms:
- Reduced performance: A lack of attention, inconsistent work or forgetting tasks are typical behavior patterns of adults with ADHD.
- Emotional instability: Adults with ADHD suffer from strong mood swings, are prone to depressive moods and make erratic decisions.
- Impulsive behavior: ADHD sufferers often act spontaneously, talk a lot and interrupt others in conversation.
- Stress intolerance: Affected people do not cope well with stress and do not manage to deal with pressure. The low stress tolerance is expressed, among other things, by problems falling asleep or an exaggerated need for rest when overwhelmed.
- Disturbed social behavior: Adults with ADHD have difficulty following rules (e.g., driving on the road), crossing boundaries with others, and being socially isolated.
- Problems organizing everyday life: ADHD sufferers often find it difficult to keep their lives in order. They misplace or forget things, show up late for appointments, or have trouble doing the housework.
- Low self esteem
- avoidance behavior
- addiction problems
Differences between the sexes are recognizable, but there is no scientific evidence to prove this with certainty.
Women with ADHD are more likely to have the following characteristics:
- dreaminess
- Chaotic thinking and acting
- Problems with structuring and planned action
- uncertainties
- tension
- mood swings
Men have the following problems:
- Strong inner restlessness and nervousness
- impatience
- Problems with teamwork
- Quick distraction
Causes of ADHD
In ADHD patients, brain regions that are crucial for behavioral control and attention are particularly affected. In ADHD, the messenger substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain are imbalanced. The main cause of ADHD is genetics. In addition, environmental influences such as premature birth, birth complications or drug and nicotine consumption during pregnancy play an important role.
Treatment options for ADHD in adults
There are various non-drug and drug therapies used to treat ADHD in adults. Which therapy method makes the most sense depends on the individual and the symptoms. Those affected should therefore seek comprehensive advice from their doctor. In the case of severe suffering, medication can alleviate the symptoms. Drugs are often used in combination with other therapy options such as psychotherapy. Using behavioral therapy, adults with ADHD learn to carefully change their thought and behavior patterns.
