Attention Deficit Disorder is a disorder characterized by a short attention span, impulsivity, and in some cases hyperactivity. It is often associated with children and commonly considered to be a childhood disorder. However this is not always the case and many children with ADD continue to display symptom throughout childhood and into adulthood.
Common adult ADD/ADHD symptoms: Disorganization and forgetfulness
· Tendency to procrastinate
· Chronic lateness
· Poor organizational skills (areas are extremely messy and cluttered)
· Frequently forgetting appointments, commitments and deadlines
· Underestimating the time it will take to complete tasks
Common adult ADD/ADHD symptoms: Impulsivity
· Have addictive tendencies
· Frequently interrupt others or talk over them
· Blurt out thoughts that are rude or inappropriate without thinking
· Act recklessly or spontaneously without regard for consequences
Common adult ADD/ADHD symptoms: Emotional difficulties
· Short, often explosive, temper
· Easily flustered and stressed out
· Irritability or mood swings
· Low self-esteem and sense of insecurity
· Hypersensitivity to criticism
Common adult ADD/ADHD symptoms: Hyperactivity or restlessness
· Getting bored easily
· Racing thoughts
· Talking excessively
· Doing a million things at once
· Trouble sitting still, constant fidgeting
ADD/ADHD can affect individuals in nearly every aspect of their life. Those who suffer from Attention Deficit Disorder often have problems with their marriage, friendships, work relationships and more. It causes issues when participating in everyday activities including work related activities, school activities, family activities and so forth.
Methods of treatment often involve some combination of behavior modification, life-style changes, counseling and medication. Medical management and behavioral treatments is the most effective ADHD management strategy, followed by medication alone and then behavioral treatment.
