ADHD & Adulthood

It's a common misconception that as children with ADHD grow older, they will simply grow out of having ADHD. This is false. Yes, some of the symptoms may lessen or even disappear, but this is actually a lifelong mental health disorder. As either a parent of a child or an adult with ADHD, it's important to know the common symptoms and struggles of this disorder, as to better the health of your child (or even yourself) with age. 

Some of the common symptoms are as follows:

• Impulsiveness

• Disorganization and problems prioritizing

• Poor time management skills

• Problems focusing on a task

• Trouble multitasking

• Excessive activity or restlessness

• Poor planning

• Low frustration tolerance

• Frequent mood swings

• Problems following through and completing tasks

• Hot temper

• Trouble coping with stress

Some common things that you can do to help minimize symptoms of ADHD at home are as follows:

• Create a schedule/routines (AND STICK TO IT): This will help to maintain order in the chaos and help an individual with ADHD to maintain and complete all normal daily tasks. 

• Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can help increase dopamine levels in the brain, which are often lower than normal for people with ADHD. Exercise can also release endorphins that can improve your mood.

• Practice good habits: Avoid caffeine in the evening, and try to stick to a calming bedtime routine. You can also try using blue light filters on screens, or stopping using screens and devices past a certain time.

At the end of the day, if you suspect you or your child might be suffering from signs or symptoms of ADHD, reach out to your primary care provider to get the proper screening and treatment.    

Citations:

• Advpsychiatry. (2023, November 10). ADHD tips for adults: Living with ADHD as an adult. Advanced Psychiatry Associates. https://advancedpsychiatryassociates.com/resources/blog/strategies-for-adults-living-with-adhd/#:~:text=Create%20a%20routine%20for%20chores,usual%20for%20people%20with%20ADHD.

• Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2023, January 25). Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878  

• https://stock.adobe.com/search?k=overthinking