Quick look at the symptoms:
Adult ADHD symptoms, according to DSM-5, might include:
- Impulsiveness.
- Disorganization and difficulty prioritizing.
- Lacking practical time management skills.
- Problems concentrating on a task
- Struggling with multitasking
- Excessive activity or hyperactivity
- Poor planning.
- Low frustration tolerance
- Frequent fluctuations in mood
- Difficulties in following through and completing tasks
- Hot temper
- Having trouble managing stress
What does ADHD mean?
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurological condition that usually develops in childhood. It often results in difficulties with focus, organization, and emotional regulation, and can also manifest as hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
Differences between the brains of children with and without ADHD are well established, especially in the frontal lobe. However, some people are only diagnosed with ADHD later in life.
The National Institute of Mental Health suggests that the actual number of adults with ADHD might be higher than current data indicates. Many children assigned female at birth often remain undiagnosed until adulthood, as ADHD symptoms can appear differently in females. Without treatment, ADHD can significantly affect daily functioning, impacting work, school, and personal relationships.
How is ADHD Different in Men and Women?
Men are diagnosed with ADHD more often than women because they typically display more noticeable external symptoms. Research shows that boys with ADHD usually exhibit hyperactive-impulsive or combined-type symptoms. In contrast, girls with ADHD tend to have more inattentive symptoms.
This indicates that men with ADHD often display behaviors such as blurting out answers and having difficulty waiting their turn. They are also more likely to experience aggression, emotional swings, and engage in impulsive or risky activities.
Some research also indicates that ADHD is less likely to persist into adulthood in men than in women. This could be because hyperactivity symptoms tend to diminish with age, while inattention in ADHD is more likely to stay.
Both men and women experience increased risks for specific conditions related to their ADHD. Men with ADHD more often encounter “externalized” issues like substance or alcohol misuse. In contrast, women with ADHD are more prone to “internalized” conditions, including depression and anxiety.
Although ADHD manifests differently in men and women, specific challenges are shared by all. Studies show that both genders with ADHD tend to have lower self-esteem and feel more hopeless than those without the condition.
Talking to others who have faced similar experiences, such as virtual support groups for men, is an excellent way to receive help and guidance that can aid your success in these efforts.
How can ADHD symptoms cause problems in daily life?
ADHD symptoms disrupt daily life. In men, symptoms can cause:
- Having difficulty paying attention and frequently getting distracted.
- Disorganization and procrastination
- Lack of effective time management, planning, or organization.
- Having trouble remembering daily tasks
- Frequently losing items or forgetting activities
- Frequently cutting others off or excessively talking
- Difficulty concentrating on an enormous task or juggling multiple tasks
- Having difficulty following instructions or completing projects
- Difficulty sitting still for extended periods and frequently moving or fidgeting.
- Feelings of restlessness and a constant need for activity or stimulation.
- Choosing immediate rewards instead of waiting for future benefits.
Many people occasionally exhibit these behaviors. However, in adults with ADHD, they are typically more intense, happen more often, and last longer, interfering with daily life and appearing across various situations for at least six months. ADHD frequently coexists with other mental health conditions, complicating treatment. Sleep disturbances are widespread, affecting up to 70% of adults with ADHD.
For many with ADHD, symptoms often continue into adulthood, though they may evolve. Inattentive symptoms generally remain consistent as individuals age, whereas hyperactivity and impulsivity tend to lessen. Discover more about the symptoms and various types of ADHD.
What causes ADHD in men?
The precise cause of ADHD remains unknown, but research continues. Possible contributing factors include:
- Genetics: ADHD often runs in families, and research indicates that genes may play a role.
- Environment: Some environmental factors, such as lead exposure in childhood, can also raise the risk.
- Problems arising during development: potentially involving issues with the central nervous system at key moments.
What options are available for men seeking treatment for ADHD?
ADHD treatment can reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning. The most common options suggested by your doctor might include:
- Medication referred to as stimulant or non-stimulant drugs
- Psychotherapy, including behavioral and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Effective treatment often requires a combination of different approaches. Occasionally, individuals must experiment with various options before finding the one that best suits them.
Some adults may find it beneficial to seek guidance from a life coach or ADHD coach who can help them develop executive function skills to enhance their daily lives. Others attempt lifestyle modifications, like increasing physical activity as part of their routine.
How can I manage ADHD?
ADHD can be managed through various approaches, such as lifestyle changes, workplace adjustments, or medication. It depends on your symptoms and how they affect you. Not everyone needs or prefers to take medication to control their ADHD symptoms.
When you get an ADHD diagnosis, your specialist will discuss ways to support you and might recommend steps to help you navigate more effectively.
1.Lifestyle
There are things you can do to help yourself.
- Engage in activities you enjoy: by dedicating time to physical activity, as exercise offers numerous health benefits and helps channel your energy effectively. Additionally, regular exercise can alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms, which may otherwise exacerbate ADHD.
- Healthy routine: Prioritize getting enough sleep by setting a consistent bedtime and creating a quiet, dark sleep environment. It’s helpful to avoid screens, caffeine, sugar, and alcohol close to bedtime.
- Maintain regular mealtimes: to support a healthy, balanced diet and keep your eating schedule consistent.
- Maintain a social life: It may also be beneficial to discuss your ADHD with friends and family.
2.Work, college, or university
At work or school, you can request modifications to support your ADHD better. These are known as “reasonable adjustments.” Reasonable adjustments might include things like:
- Having a personalized workspace in a quiet area.
- Having both written and spoken instructions
- Getting help from someone to plan and organize your tasks
3.Medicines
ADHD medications should be prescribed and monitored by a specialist experienced in ADHD. The doctor may recommend stimulant or non-stimulant drugs depending on the individual’s condition. Stimulant drugs, also known as psychostimulants, are the primary treatment for ADHD. Conversely, a doctor might prescribe nonstimulants if a person has an adverse reaction to stimulants or does not respond to them. Therefore, it is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor and follow their recommendations when taking medication.
A General Physician can prescribe ADHD medications only if there is a “shared care agreement” (health and social care agreement in the UK) with an ADHD specialist. For more information, consult your ADHD specialist or General Physician.
4.Talking therapies
For men with ADHD, talking therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness may be recommended.
Living with ADHD:
ADHD in men is a complex but manageable condition that can significantly impact personal, work, and social life. The first step toward treatment and improving daily life is recognizing the symptoms, such as impulsivity, disorganization, and poor time management. With accurate diagnosis and a customized treatment plan that includes therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, men with ADHD can lead balanced and productive lives.
Understanding that ADHD manifests differently in each person is essential for reducing stigma and increasing awareness. Early intervention, honest communication, and ongoing support can have a profoundly positive impact. If you or someone you know shows signs of ADHD, consult a licensed healthcare professional to explore effective treatments and strategies for better mental health and productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a way to test for ADHD?
Determining whether someone has ADHD involves several steps. There is no single diagnostic test, and other conditions like sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, and some learning disabilities may show similar symptoms.
Is it possible to have high-functioning ADHD?
The term “high functioning ADHD” generally refers to mild ADHD that does not majorly disrupt your daily activities. This might mean your symptoms are less severe or that you have developed effective coping strategies. Sometimes, it indicates that only one area of your life is notably affected. Even with mild symptoms, managing ADHD without adequate support can still demand significant energy and mental effort. Researchers continue to investigate the potential long-term effects on psychological and physical health. Therefore, getting a proper diagnosis and treatment plan can still be beneficial.
How can you tell if you have ADHD as an adult?
To get an ADHD diagnosis, you need to exhibit at least five symptoms related to a specific type of ADHD for a minimum of six months. If you experience any symptoms commonly linked to adult ADHD that interfere with your daily routine, consulting a doctor might be helpful. You might also have a few personal or work accomplishments, although this is not always the case. Only you can determine what is normal or abnormal for you.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
ADHD diagnosis relies on specific criteria. Symptoms must persist for over six months, appear before the age of 12, and not align with the individual’s developmental level, causing notable difficulties in school, at home, and in social situations.
What potential complications can arise from ADHD?
Providing accurate diagnosis, treatment, and support for individuals with ADHD is crucial to preventing future challenges. Only around one-third have ADHD as their sole diagnosis; many also deal with conditions such as anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, or Autism. Additionally, obstructive sleep apnoea, which involves airway blockage during sleep, occurs more frequently among those with ADHD. Poor sleep can impair focus the following day. To effectively support someone with ADHD, it is essential to obtain an accurate assessment and implement appropriate strategies and interventions.
