Adults with ADD

Up until the mid 1990’s, it was believed that ADD was a childhood disorder that would somehow magically disappear in adolescence.  Research has proven this as wrong, and it is now known that many individual’s symptoms can continue into adulthood and create significant problems in adult life.  It is estimated that millions of American adults have ADD and have never been diagnosed or treated.

Some researchers and experts believe that ADD is inherited and passed down from generation to generation.  It has been suggested that as many as 80% of ADD cases are the direct result of genetics with the remaining 20% caused by toxins, trauma or illnesses introduced during pregnancy, delivery, or the newborn period. 

Adult indicators of ADD are numerous and vary in type and intensity from person to person as no two people are alike.  Some (not a complete list) indicators that can be suggestive of ADD are: 

• Easily distracted; forgetful; daydreaming
• Difficulty with making decisions
• Behavioral or verbal impulsiveness
• Difficulty expressing thoughts in speech or writing
• Significant periods of depression; low self-esteem
• A sense of failure; not living up to one’s potential
• A sense of internal restlessness; constantly active
• Highly sensitive to being told what to do, teasing, criticism, rejection or anger
• Thoughts jumping from one topic to another
• Easily bored; has an intense need for excitement
• Difficulty following rules
• Very impatient; low frustration tolerance
• Emotionally sensitive; easily upset
• Difficulty with personal or work relationships
• Difficulty with reading comprehension or retention
• Perfectionist tendencies
• Strong need to control or have things your way

ADD requires a comprehensive evaluation by a professional with special knowledge and experience with ADD.  The evaluation is needed to establish a diagnosis and rule out other possible causes or co-existing conditions. 

Treatment of ADD is a multi-modal approach with a possibility of medication, education about its causes, and development of compensatory skills to overcome specific problem areas in the person’s life.  Support groups for Adults with ADD are available.  To determine if you have ADD, see your physician to discuss symptoms, evaluation and treatment methods.  There is help and hope for this Disorder.