How to Live with AD/HD
Have you struggled with inattention or hyperactivity? Maybe you always forget where you last left your keys, or you never seem to be able to comfortably sit still. According to the CDC, in the United States, an estimated 15.5 million adults were diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) in 2023. AD/HD is common and knowing you have it can help you get resources and learn to handle its symptoms.
Definition:
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) is a developmental disorder, as symptoms begin in childhood. It is defined by patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity that make it hard to function normally. Inattention is defined by: difficulty paying attention, staying organized, and focusing on the right task. Hyperactivity is defined by: excessive activity and restlessness. Impulsivity is defined by: acting without thinking and trouble with self-control. Based on which symptoms someone experiences, you could be diagnosed with one of three types of AD/HD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined. ADD is NOT a diagnosis although it is used colloquially to describe inattentive type.
If you think you struggle with inattention, pay attention to these symptoms within the last 6 months:
If you have five of these symptoms (6 are needed for kids) you may have AD/HD, specifically with inattentive presentation.
If you think you struggle with hyperactivity/impulsivity, pay attention to these symptoms within the last 6 months:
If you have five of these symptoms (6 are needed for kids) you may have AD/HD, specifically with hyperactive/impulsive presentation.
If you have 5 or more symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity, you have what’s called a combined presentation of AD/HD. Other criteria for the disorder include: symptoms were present before age 12, several symptoms are present in at least two settings, and your symptoms interfere with your ‘functioning’. Your functioning can include your academic career, personal life, social life, or your work life.
What Mimics it:
There are many mental disorders and medical conditions that have symptoms that overlap with signs of AD/HD. This includes anxiety and Bipolar Disorder, both which can cause sleep troubles, and some personality disorders, which can include impulsive behavior. Health conditions such as hypothyroidism can cause brain fog, trouble focusing, and sleeping. Mood disorders such as depression can have similar symptoms with difficulty staying focused. Substance use, dehydration, and sleep disorders should also be considered since they have similar symptoms.
Problems it can cause for adults:
Adults with AD/HD typically have a history of poor academic performance, work difficulties, or strained relationships. They can also find it challenging to stay organized, keep appointments and jobs, or perform daily tasks / large projects.
Recommendations:
Finding a way to live with AD/HD will take time to determine what works best for you. Common treatments include medication, psychoeducation, training your skills, and counseling. Combining a few of these treatment choices is usually the most effective.
If you or someone you know may be struggling with AD/HD, reach out to kaytie@kkjpsych.com and schedule an appointment with The Purpose Center today.
Resources:
Online Resources:
1. CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder):
a. Website: https://www.chadd.org
b. Resources, support groups, and educational materials made for adults
2. ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association):
a. Website: https://add.org
b. Webinars, articles, support groups, and online community for resources / networking
3. ADHD Coaches Organization (ACO):
a. https://www.adhdcoaches.org
b. List of ADHD coaches and resources for adults to manage symptoms and improve life skills
4. MyADHD:
a. Website: https://www.myadhd.com
b. Articles, tools, and tips for managing daily life with ADHD
Books:
1. “Driven to Distraction” by Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey:
2. “You, Mean I’m Not Lazy, Stupid or Crazy?!" by Kate Kelly and Peggy Ramundo:
3. “ADHD 2.0" by Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey
4. “What Does Everybody Else Know That I Don't?” by Michele Novotni
5. “Taking Charge of Adult ADHD 1st Edition” by Russell A. Barkley
6. “The Smart but Scattered Guide to Success: How to Use Your Brain's Executive Skills to Keep Up, Stay Calm, and Get Organized at Work and at Home” by Peg Dawson, Richard Guare
7. “Adult ADD: A Guide for the Newly Diagnosed (The New Harbinger Guides for the Newly Diagnosed Series)” by Stephanie Moulton Sarkis PhD, Patricia O. Quinn MD
8. “How to ADHD: From Surviving to Thriving" by Jessica McCabe
9. “The Comprehensive Guide to ADHD: Strategies and Solutions for Adults" by Michael A. Russo”
10. “Adult ADHD: How to Succeed as a Hunter in a Farmer's World" by Jeff Copper
11. “The Adult ADHD Toolkit: A Comprehensive Guide for Busy Adults" by Dr. J. D. Lichtenstein
12. “The Gift of Adult ADHD: How to Turn Your Challenges into Strengths" by Dr. Marla D. Dwyer
13. "ADHD and the Gig Economy: Thrive in Your Career with Neurodiversity" by Jessica F. E. Barker
Support Groups:
1. Meetup.com: Local ADHD support groups for adults in your area that host regular meetings for sharing experiences and strategies.
2. ADHD Support Groups on Facebook: There are groups on Facebook dedicated to adult ADHD where members share strategies, experiences, and support each other.
Apps:
1. ADHD Organizer Apps: Apps like Todoist and Trello can help manage tasks, set reminders, and stay organized.
2. Mindfulness Apps: Consider apps like Headspace or Calm to develop mindfulness techniques that can help with focus and relaxation.
3. Pomodoro Timer Apps: Apps like Focus Keeper can help break tasks into manageable intervals for better focus
Sources:
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/adhd-what-you-need-to-know
https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/adult-adhd#disorganization
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/misdiagnosed-adhd-conditions-with-overlapping-symptoms