Psychiatric/Neurological Disease & Disorders
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Adults
Find out about ADHD in Children

What is it?

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological disability. It is characterized by developmentally inappropriate impulsivity, inattention, and in some cases, hyperactivity. Although individuals with ADHD can be very successful in life, without appropriate identification and treatment, ADHD can have serious consequences such as school failure, depression, conduct disorder, failed relationships, and substance abuse. Early identification and treatment are extremely important.

Until recent years, it was believed that children outgrew ADHD in adolescence. This is because hyperactivity often diminishes during the teen years. However, it is now known that many symptoms continue into adulthood. If the disorder goes undiagnosed or untreated during adulthood, individuals may have trouble at work and in relationships, as well as emotional difficulties, such as anxiety and depression.

What are the symptoms?

• Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes
• Has difficulty sustaining attention
• Does not appear to listen

• Struggles to follow through on instructions
• Has difficulty with organization
• Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort

• Is easily distracted
• Is forgetful in daily activities
• Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in chair

• Has difficulty remaining seated
• Runs around or climbs excessively
• Has difficulty engaging in activities quietly

• Acts as driven by a motor
• Talks excessively
• Blurts out answers before questions have been completed

• Has difficulty waiting or taking turns
• Interrupts or intrudes on others.

What are the treatment options?

The primary method for treating ADHD is using appropriate medications. The most widely prescribed medications for ADHD are the stimulants. These include Ritalin, Dexedrine, and Adderall. There are also a large number of non-stimulant medications available to treat ADHD including Straterra, imipramine and buproprion.

Different types of therapy are also essential in treating ADHD, and some milder forms of ADHD will respond to these treatments without the use of medication. A combination of education, therapy and medication typically produces the best results