Affinity Health is a leading provider of high-quality health cover. Here are their views on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults.
What is Adult ADHD?
Adult attention-deficit disorder (ADHD) is a mental condition. characterised by the following:
- A constellation of focus issues
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsive behaviour
Adult ADHD can lead to:
- Unstable relationships
- Poor work performance
- Low self-esteem
Life may seem chaotic and out of control for those with adult ADHD. Staying organised and on top of things may be quite difficult. The following may prove challenging:
- Reading pertinent information
- Focusing on a given activity
- Prioritising your to-do list
- Keeping track of activities and obligations
- Managing your time
“Adults with ADHD can focus but may be easily distracted by irrelevant sights and sounds. They may jump from one task to the next and become bored quickly,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
What Causes Adult ADHD?
Scientists are unsure of the actual cause of ADHD. But they believe that a mix of the following is likely to blame:
- Genetics
- Environment
- Subtle neurological abnormalities
If you lived with ADHD as a child, at least some of the symptoms have likely persisted into adulthood. Even if you were never diagnosed with ADHD as a child, it is still possible to experience effects as an adult.
These are typical signs of ADHD in adults:
- Poor organisational skills (home, office, desk, or car is very messy and cluttered)
- Problems beginning and concluding projects
- Frequent forgetfulness of appointments, obligations, and deadlines
- Misplacing or losing items (keys, wallet, phone, documents, bills)
- Underestimating the amount of time necessary to finish activities
- Interrupting others or speaking over them
- Poor self-control, addictive tendencies
- Emotional challenges
- Anger management
Consequences of Adult ADHD
Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD can have far-reaching repercussions. It can cause issues in almost every aspect of life.
Physical and psychological health issues:
ADHD symptoms can contribute to many health issues, such as:
- Compulsive eating
- Substance addiction
- Anxiety
- Chronic stress and tension
- Low self-esteem
Complications can be the result of the following:
- Neglecting necessary check-ups
- Missing doctor visits
- Ignoring medical instructions
- Forgetting to take essential prescriptions
Financial and occupational challenges:
Adults with ADHD tend to struggle with their careers. They also have a strong sense of underachievement.
Relationship Difficulties:
The symptoms of ADHD can strain your professional, romantic, and familial relationships. You may grow tired of continual nagging from family to pay attention or get organised. But your loved ones may feel hurt.
The good news is that no matter how difficult adult ADHD may feel, you can learn to live with symptoms.
Many adults with attention deficit disorder find effective strategies to do the following:
- Control symptoms
- Capitalise on talents
- Be productive
There are several things you may do to aid yourself and manage your symptoms.
Eat well and exercise:
Exercise burns off extra energy and aggressiveness while calming and soothing the body. To reduce mood swings, consume a range of nutritious foods and restrict sugary foods.
Get lots of sleep:
It is difficult to concentrate, handle stress and be productive when you are exhausted. Turn off electronic devices at least one hour before bedtime. Try and get between seven and nine hours of sleep every night.
Manage your Time:
Set timelines for everything, including little chores. Utilise timers and alarms to maintain focus. Take breaks at regular intervals. Avoid paperwork stacks and procrastination by handling each thing as it arrives. Prioritise time-sensitive assignments and record every assignment, message, and significant thinking.
Improve Interpersonal Relationships:
Plan activities with friends and honour your commitments. Maintain awareness in conversation and online communication. Pay attention while others are speaking. Avoid rapid speaking or texting. Develop relationships with others who are empathetic and understanding of your ADHD challenges.
Encourage a Supportive Workplace:
Utilise lists, colour-coding, reminders, notes-to-self, routines, and files frequently. Choose employment that motivates and fascinates you whenever possible. Watch how and when you work most effectively. Implement these conditions as best you can into your working environment. Teaming up with more organised individuals might be beneficial for both parties.
Observe Mindfulness:
Consider daily mindfulness meditation. That might help you calm your busy mind and achieve more emotional control.
If your ADHD symptoms continue to interfere with your life despite your self-help efforts, it may be time to seek outside assistance.
Learn More: At What Age Can ADHD Be Diagnosed?
