Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Adults

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a psychological disorder that typically begins in childhood but can persist into adulthood. Although its prevalence decreases with age, it can still affect approximately 4% of adults. ADHD is usually characterized by problems with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior, which are first noticed in the early school years.

Symptoms resulting from attention deficits, such as daydreaming in class and making mistakes on tests, as well as symptoms stemming from hyperactivity and impulsivity, such as being unable to sit still in class and having difficulty getting along with peers, can make it challenging for a child to adapt to school. This can also decrease self-confidence. Without treatment, as adolescents enter puberty and face the challenges of that period, the risk of engaging in risky behaviors increases, potentially leading to long-term harm. In adulthood, ADHD can manifest as difficulty starting tasks, procrastination, poor time management, starting multiple tasks but not finishing any, outbursts of anger, difficulties waiting in traffic, trouble coping with stress, and struggling with marital responsibilities, all of which can significantly impair quality of life.

Comorbidities

Research has shown that individuals with ADHD often have comorbid disorders such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and substance use disorders.

Treatment Methods

Adult ADHD requires a comprehensive treatment approach considering the complexity of adult life and comorbidities. Medication is a part of the comprehensive treatment for ADHD, which has a neurobiological basis. Additionally, structured cognitive-behavioral therapies can be added to the treatment.

Conclusion

Diagnosing ADHD in adulthood requires recognizing the equivalent manifestations of childhood symptoms in adulthood. Although the frequency of ADHD symptoms decreases with age and changes over time, adults with ADHD experience significant functional impairments compared to their peers of the same age, even if they do not meet the full diagnostic criteria. The core symptoms of ADHD, including attention deficits, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, result in significant difficulties in executive functioning and emotional regulation in adults. Without appropriate treatment, individuals with ADHD may experience difficulties in the workplace, make poor decisions regarding health issues, engage in high-risk activities, drive dangerously, and encounter legal problems throughout their lives. ADHD is a significant societal issue affecting not only individuals but also a broader community. Therefore, it is important to provide appropriate comprehensive treatment approaches for ADHD in both childhood and adulthood for both personal and public health reasons.

Spc. Dr. Tuba Öğer

Psychiatrist