Generally associated with childhood, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can persist into adulthood
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological disorder characterized by persistent difficulties with attention, impulsivity and/or hyperactivity. The condition usually appears in childhood. However, it is increasingly common for adults to be diagnosed with this condition.
According to the psychiatrist Doctor Wendell Ribeiro OliveiraAlthough often associated with childhood, ADHD can persist into adulthood, in most cases, affecting approximately 2-4% of adults according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO).
What are the symptoms of ADHD in adults?
According to the psychiatrist, the symptoms of ADHD in adults are mainly inattention, executive dysfunction, motor restlessness, impulsivity and emotional dysregulation.
“These are people who are easily distracted by internal and external stimuli, such as their own thoughts, have great difficulty planning, executing and completing long-term tasks, often postponing and interrupting projects halfway through,” explains the expert.
Furthermore, these individuals commonly feel restless and bored, even when they have free time to relax. They are also people who have difficulty waiting their turn and who frequently interrupt other people’s speech, Wendell points out.
“Emotional dysregulation is the most studied, but still poorly recognized, aspect of ADHD. Adults with ADHD may have considerable difficulty controlling their emotions, resulting in intense and sudden reactions, such as outbursts of anger,” adds the doctor.
Factors related to the disorder
The psychiatrist explains that ADHD has a strong genetic link. Therefore, parents of diagnosed children are also more likely to suffer from the disease.
“The currently most accepted explanation for the origin of ADHD is the multifactorial model, which involves the interaction between genetic and environmental factors. It is believed that the combination of genetic risk variants and unfavorable environmental conditions can trigger the disorder,” he says .
Furthermore, there are other factors that can explain the origin of ADHD. Wendell cites, for example, changes in the prefrontal cortex (which functions as a conduit that regulates cognition); neural networks linked to neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine; and behaviors and emotions.
Treatment for adults
Treatment of ADHD in adults involves a multimodal approach, combining education about the disorder, lifestyle care, physical activity, nutrition, sleep, psychotherapy and medications, when indicated.
“Medication has been shown to be effective and should be used only with medical advice. Additionally, maintaining a structured routine, setting achievable goals, and practicing time management techniques are helpful strategies in managing ADHD,” Dr. Wendell points out.
The psychiatrist points out that adults with ADHD can face significant challenges in areas such as work, relationships, performance, mental health and general well-being, impacting daily and social life. Therefore, seeking treatment is essential.
“It is critical to recognize and understand the complexity of ADHD in adulthood to promote early diagnosis and appropriate interventions. With greater awareness and support, it is possible to help people with ADHD manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life,” he said. stated. concludes the doctor.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
