ADHD in Adults: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
What to know about this topic
ADHD in Adults
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is not just a behavioral problem, but a neuropsychiatric disorder with a biological basis. It is associated with disruption of neurotransmitters, in particular dopamine, which is responsible for motivation, attention and behavioral control. Symptoms can also be triggered by constant stress, trauma, or a strict upbringing in childhood.
ADHD Symptoms in Adults
In adults, ADHD symptoms appear individually or in combination. All of them can be divided into three main categories:
- Inattention - chronic procrastination, difficulty organizing work and time management, persistent lateness due to inability to properly plan the day, forgetfulness, problems concentrating on one task.
- Hyperactivity - constant restlessness, difficulty relaxing, restlessness, excessive activity, inappropriate talkativeness.
- Impulsivity - impulsive decisions without assessing the consequences, impatience, interrupting the interlocutor, sudden mood swings, emotional outbursts, irritation for no reason.
It is noteworthy that the symptom of hyperactivity in adults is less pronounced, but difficulties with attention and impulsivity remain. Adults with ADHD often experience low self-esteem due to persistent difficulty completing tasks. This can cause anxiety, depression and other emotional problems.
Diagnosing ADHD in Adults
It is important to have ADHD diagnosed by a qualified professional as the symptoms of the disease are very similar to those of other mental disorders such as depression, conduct disorders, bipolar disorder, etc. At the Dr. Zhyvago clinic, such diagnostics are carried out by psychiatrists and psychotherapists.
You can make a preliminary assessment of your condition yourself. For this purpose, there are standardized questionnaires and scales of ADHD symptoms, for example, the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) or other online versions approved by medical and scientific organizations.
However, the “gold standard” for identifying ADHD is testing using the international clinical psychodiagnostic technique CAARS (Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales). The test helps assess the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults and select an effective correction or therapy program.
To establish an accurate diagnosis and select effective treatment, the Dr. Zhyvago Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Clinic offers packages of services with tests not only for ADHD, but also for other disorders with similar symptoms.
Services at the Dr. Zhyvago Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Clinic
Symptom Assessment package ADHD" using the international clinical psychodiagnostic technique CAARS
The package includes: CAARS test
Cost - 3,500 UAH
Package "Analysis of ADHD and comorbidity" using the international clinical psychodiagnostic technique CAARS
Package includes: CAARS test, tests for depression and anxiety
Cost - 3,800 UAH
Package "Basic diagnosis" ADHD" using the international clinical psychodiagnostic technique CAARS
The package includes: the CAARS test and a set of tests for a comprehensive study of emotional, cognitive and personal functioning.
Cost - 4,500 UAH
Consultation on the results of the study is provided separately by doctors of the Dr. Zhyvago clinic. Based on a comprehensive assessment, specialists will be able to confirm or refute the diagnosis and offer individual support strategies.
Treatment of ADHD in adults
How to treat ADHD? Unfortunately, ADHD cannot be completely cured, but its symptoms can be significantly alleviated with quality therapy. In particular, the doctor can use:
Drug therapy (the use of medications to improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity);
Cognitive behavioral therapy (the use of self-observation techniques, exercises to change mental attitudes to develop self-control, the ability to manage emotions);
Behavioral interventions (coaching methods, checklists, digital planners and practical recommendations to encourage the desired, balanced behavior).
High-quality therapy allows adults with ADHD to improve concentration, increase efficiency in work and school, as well as strengthen relationships with others and raise their own self-esteem.
Clinic of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Dr. Zhyvago provides comprehensive support for ADHD in adults: diagnosis, individual consultations, therapy and support.
Sign up for an in-person or online consultation today! Call the clinic of psychiatry and psychotherapy Dr. Zhyvago and get help in treating ADHD by phone: +38 (099) 622 70 70.
Remember: timely diagnosis and holistic support help better control symptoms and improve quality of life. ADHD is not a death sentence, but a feature that you can live with fully.