ADHD, which is the acronym for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a behavioral condition that generally starts in childhood and often continues into adulthood. It can affect a person in a number of different ways; yet will usually have an influence over a person's social interactions and relationships, self-esteem and even overall lifestyle. While ADHD is a disorder regularly linked to youth, it does touch adults, and can be difficult to diagnosis at this later age, since symptoms will be different that those often exhibited in a child. However, there are certain characteristics that are commonly displayed in an adult suffering from ADHD that can help bring about a proper diagnosis.
Behavioral Indicators
Some of the most common indicators of ADHD in an adult will be behavioral, that is, in how the individual conducts himself. This disorder can manifest as being forgetful, constantly late to appointments or engagements, continually putting things off or procrastinating and having difficulty in relationships.
Cognitive Indicators
Adults suffering from ADHD may also exhibit particular cognitive indicators that typically involve their overall mood or temperament. Many times ADHD will bring about a sense of depression or anxiety in some adults. Others may experience a certain level of irritability, mood swings or impatience. On occasion, a person with ADHD may have a difficult time controlling anger or frustration.
Silent Indicators
A number of other indicators are often present in an adult with ADHD, but are usually mistaken for part of the person's nature. Silent indicators can be an inability to get organized, a tendency to become easily bored, failure to concentrate or a propensity for impulsive behaviors or actions. A number of adults who have ADHD may also have "addictive" behaviors or be subject to some sort of substance abuse.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of ADHD is difficult in an adult, since symptoms are often mistaken for other issues. To make this diagnosis easier, it is common for a physician to ask for a patient's history, which would include any social, educational, disciplinary and behavorial issues, going back to childhood. Interviews may be held with the spouse, family or friends to better understand the reason or background for the patient's behavior.
Treatment
Not surprisingly, an adult with ADHD can benefit from relatively the same treatments used for children. This would include common medications as well as psychological and behavioral therapy. However, an adult with ADHD may also benefit from job coaching, stress management, relaxation and organizational strategies.
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