During the course of treating women for addiction, we often become aware of an additional issue that requires our attention. This is known as having a dual diagnosis and is one of the reasons we perform close ongoing psychiatric assessment of the woman during treatment.
Adult ADD / ADHD
If you are an adult who has trouble concentrating and staying organized, are easily distracted and often feel overwhelmed by your responsibilities, you may have adult ADD / ADHD. Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) receive a lot of attention as mental health issues for children, but these conditions can also be experienced by adults. Many of us go through periods of inattention and impulsive behavior, but for an adult suffering from ADD or ADHD, the symptoms of the disorder have a major impact on everything from personal relationships to the ability to hold down a job.
ADD / ADHD in adults and children cannot be diagnosed by a physical exam or lab test. Although the effects of these conditions are often apparent, the causes remain unknown. While about 5 percent of children are diagnosed and treated for ADD / ADHD, many adults are never diagnosed or are incorrectly diagnosed as suffering from anxiety, depression, a learning disability or bipolar disorder. Undiagnosed ADD / ADHD in an adult can lead to serious consequences. Studies have linked adult ADD / ADHD with an increased risk of substance abuse, accidents, antisocial behavior and even criminal activity
The symptoms of ADD / ADHD are not the same in adults and children. The symptoms may also vary from person to person. In addition, some people may be suffering from other disorders such as anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder or a learning disability in addition to ADD / ADHD. These factors often cause ADD / ADHD in an adult to remain undetected.
These are some of the general symptoms for adult ADD / ADHD:
- Disorganization and forgetfulness
Life for most adults is a balancing act, with work, family and household duties competing for attention. For adults with ADD / ADHD, life balance is almost impossible. Procrastination, disorganization, forgetfulness and chronic lateness make life extremely difficult. - Lack of focus and trouble concentrating
Adults with ADD / ADHD are very easily distracted and have a tendency to lose focus, even in the middle of a conversation. They often have poor listening and concentration skills. These symptoms make it difficult to complete tasks, including routine day-to-day tasks, - Impulsivity and lack of inhibition
Adults with ADD / ADHD often act or speak before thinking. They may interrupt others and blurt out rude or inappropriate comments, making their behavior seem antisocial. This lack of self-control can lead to addictive or reckless behavior. Even sitting still during a meeting can be difficult for an adult with ADD / ADHD. - Hyperactivity
The hyperactive component of ADHD is often disguised as high energy. Hyperactive adults are perpetually in overdrive but they usually aren’t going anywhere. They are restless, easily bored, extremely talkative and are driven by racing thoughts. Their tendency for extreme multitasking can be exhausting for family, friends and co-workers.
There are several popular myths about ADD / ADHD, including a widespread belief that the symptoms of ADD / ADHD can be overcome with willpower. Studies of the brain have shown this myth to be false. The symptoms of ADD / ADHD are cause by the chemical environment in the brain and are not a willpower problem, though many adults are able to train themselves to control some of the worst effects of the condition.
Treatment for adults with ADD / ADHD usually involves medication, including many of the same stimulants that are prescribed to children. Adults may also be prescribed an antidepressant to treat ADD / ADHD. In addition to medication, adults with these conditions should seek psychotherapy and education to help deal with emotional issues and personal problems that have arisen as a result of ADD / ADHD.
