Is it really ADHD? What adults should know about the diagnosis

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PICTURE: PEXELS/sad woman

Some individuals have trouble focusing, remembering things, or feeling disorganised, which makes some people question if it could be ADHD.

To improve concentration and well-being, the below health publications explore what people should know about identifying ADHD, getting a diagnosis, and accessing help:

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that includes a combination of persistent problems, such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour.”

The clinic also states that relationship instability, poor academic or professional performance, low self-esteem, and other issues might result from adult ADHD.

“Treatment for adult ADHD is similar to treatment for childhood ADHD. Adult ADHD treatment includes medications, psychological counselling (psychotherapy) and treatment for any mental health conditions that occur along with ADHD,” the clinic mentioned above further adds.

Health-focused publication Healthline claims that ADHD was long thought to be primarily a condition that affects children. Although symptoms of ADHD typically manifest before the age of 12, the diagnosis can be made for anyone at any age. Getting a proper diagnosis might take years, and some people never get one at all.

“Adults with undiagnosed ADHD may not understand why they struggle with focusing, are always late, and can’t follow along in social situations. The interpersonal components of ADHD can make it hard to make friends and maintain friendships,” according to the above health publication.

The health hub also explains that adult ADHD symptoms could include the following:

  • Unable to maintain concentration on one task.
  • Inability to focus.
  • Neglecting commitments or appointments.
  • Regular tardiness.
  • Forgetting what people say or not paying attention when they speak.

Also see: The impact of stroke in mental health