ADHD Affects 4.4 per cent of US Adults, Offering Treatment and Coping Strategies
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often misunderstood, with many incorrectly attributing it to occasional lapses in concentration or forgetfulness.
However, experts stress that the condition represents a lifelong challenge in managing attention, organization, memory, and impulse control.
“ADHD is not something transient; it’s a condition that can significantly impact your life if left unmanaged,” explains Dr Ari Tuckman, a psychologist and expert at Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). “Once diagnosed, the right strategies can greatly improve how someone lives with the condition.”
ADHD affects approximately 4.4 per cent of adults in the United States, with men being more commonly diagnosed than women.
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Many individuals may have been living with ADHD symptoms since childhood, while others are not diagnosed until adulthood, says Carly Harris, Program Director at Newport Healthcare. Stressors in adult life can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, even in those who previously managed them well.
Getting diagnosed and managing ADHD
For those struggling with day-to-day tasks or feeling overwhelmed, getting tested for ADHD is an important first step. Carly Harris suggests starting with a self-assessment like the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, followed by consulting a healthcare professional. “Your primary care physician can refer you to a specialist,” she says, adding that CHADD offers online directories to help find experienced therapists.
Diagnosis involves evaluating symptoms over time to rule out other conditions like anxiety or depression. Once diagnosed, treatment usually includes a multi-modal approach of therapy, lifestyle changes, and potentially medication.
ADHD treatment options and coping mechanisms
Managing ADHD involves more than just medication. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a balanced diet and exercising regularly, play an essential role. “Physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, can significantly reduce ADHD-related stress and improve focus,” says Douglas Mitchell, a clinical services provider for ADHD patients.
Establishing consistent routines and employing organisational techniques, such as to-do lists or the Pomodoro technique, also helps individuals stay focused and manage tasks efficiently. “People with ADHD often benefit from breaking tasks into smaller chunks and minimising distractions,” adds Mitchell.
Therapy options like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are commonly recommended to help patients manage impulsivity, regulate emotions, and develop coping strategies. “ADHD is manageable, and with the right support, people can lead fulfilling, productive lives,” says Mitchell.
While medication such as Adderall and Ritalin is effective for many, recent shortages have created challenges for patients. “People are sometimes forced to ration their medication, leading to disruptions in treatment,” Tuckman warns.
Ultimately, managing ADHD requires a combination of approaches. As Dr Tuckman highlights, “It’s not something that will disappear, but with the right strategies, you can live the life you want.”
