Diagnosis and Treatment

The first studies done on adults who were never diagnosed as children were done in the late 1970s.  This research produced clinical criteria for the development of diagnostic tools. Those that are widely used today are the Conners Rating Scale and the Brown Attention Deficit Disorder Scale.

A diagnostic manual compiled by the American Psychiatric Association identifies three types of ADD: 

• Inattentive:  A person with this type has trouble focusing on activities, organizing and finishing tasks and following instructions
• Hyperactive-impulsive: A person with this type feels restless, is constantly “on the go,” and tries to perform multiple tasks at once.  They are often perceived as not thinking before they act or speak
• Combined:  A person with the combined form shows symptoms of both

            http://mental-health.emedtv.com/adult-add/adult-add.html

Treatment begins with awareness.  Medication and behavioral therapy can help with the symptoms of the disorder and individual counseling can help with life struggles in general.

Stimulant drugs such as those given to children with ADD are often prescribed to adults.  Studies show that about two-thirds of adults show significant improvement from them.
Since children with ADD have their medication administered by an adult, there is generally consistency and no abuse.  An adult with ADD, however, may forget to take it, take it too often, or even be tempted to abuse it.

Behavioral therapy is also used to build self-esteem and relaxation training and stress management will help to reduce anxiety.  Behavioral coaching may help the adult learn to organize their life and life coaching may improve their work performance and relationships in general.  [See our February e-newsletter on Christian Life Coaching.]

Although most adults do not outgrow ADD, they do learn to adapt and can navigate their life more easily as they understand ADD and strive to manage it.

If you think you might be dealing with adult ADD,
Call 336-896-0065, ext. 203, and make an appointment for an evaluation.