 ADHD IN Adults What Is ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)? ADHD is characterized by a pattern of behavior, present in multiple settings that can result in performance issues in social, educational, or work settings.

Classified As?  ADHD is classified by the DMS-I-TR as a developmental disorder of age inappropriate inattention and hyperactivity that arises before 7 yrs. of age.  Disorder recognized by severe behavioral and cognitive symptoms that cause impairment in 2 or more settings.

What Does the DSM-V Say?  As in DSM-IV, symptoms will be divided into two categories of inattention and hyperactivity and impulsivity  included behaviors are failure to pay close attention to details, difficulty organizing tasks and activities  excessive talking, fidgeting, or an inability to remain seated in appropriate situations.

How Does it Develop  Mostly diagnosed in the early stages of elementary school.  May occasionally develop in adolescence or adulthood.  Secondary to an acquired injury to the brain  Particularly injury to the frontal lobes

How Many Adults in the U.S.  4.4% of adults have ADHD  3.4% World-wide  In U.S Adults are being treated for disorder

Why’s so few treated?  It’s hard to diagnose in adults.  Diagnosis can’t be based solely of individuals believe they have ADHD  Evidence must show over their life time in patterns from their behavior.  Comorbidity meaning a existing prescience of multiple disorders can occur, but ADHD can only be a diagnosis if the other disorder does not account for the symptoms.

Problem with Diagnosing Adults  The DSM-IV criteria was developed for children  In Adulthood the hyperactivity and impulsive behavior tend to be internalized with age.  As adults they feel mental restlessness, but tend to adjust by starting projects, but never finishing.  Instead of behavioral impulsivity they tend to be verbally impulsive

How did they Identify Symptoms?  Study was done  3 groups  Group 1-Subjects used were patients who were diagnosed with ADHD and referred to a clinic.  Group 2-Control Group thought they had ADHD-85% of which were diagnosed with disorders other than ADHD  Group 3-Communtiy Control Group  Study identified 9 essential symptoms for Adults with ADHD.

Proposed Criteria ADHD In Adults  Often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli  Often makes decisions impulsively  Often has difficulties stopping activities or behaviors  Often starts projects without finishing  Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks  Difficulty with organization or doing things in proper order  Poor at following through on promises and commitments  Need too have 6 out of 9 symptoms to be diagnosed as an adult

Managing Comorbidity w/ADHD  It’s tough to see comorbidities because things can be covered up by the opposite disorder.  ADHD symptoms might conceal anxiety & learning disabilities.  ADHD can be concealed by the robust symptoms of bi-polar, depressive disorders, or substance abuse.  It’s important that things are distinguished for treatment  Comorbidity in Adults with ADHD is COMMON!