What is Adult Attention Deficit Disorder - ADD?
Attention Deficit Disorder, also commonly referred to as ADD, is a group of symptoms that affect concentration and a person's ability to focus. It can also cause mood swings and other social problems.
How Does Adult ADD Manifest?
Adults with ADD may find it hard to follow directions, remember information, concentrate, organize tasks or complete work within time limits. If these difficulties are not managed appropriately, they can cause associated behavioral, social, emotional, vocational and academic problems.
There is a differentiation made between children with ADD and adults with the disorder. Although teens fall into the adult category (ages 12 and up), they may deal with some issues that are localized to this group.
For instance, teens with attention deficit disorder have difficulty in completing their school work and are often in trouble with parents and teachers.
What Causes ADD in Adults?
There is little evidence that ADD, when correctly diagnosed, can arise purely from social factors or environment. Researchers suspect that there are several factors that may contribute to the condition, including:
Heredity and genetics: The fact that ADD tends to run in families suggests that children may inherit a genetic tendency to develop an attention-deficit disorder from their parents.
Chemical imbalance: People who have ADD may not be able to produce enough chemicals in key areas of the brain that are responsible for organizing thought.
Brain changes: Areas of the brain that control attention are less active in adults with ADD than in people without the disorder.
Natural Adult ADD Treatment Options
Prescriptions ADD Drugs and Side Effects
The most commonly used stimulants for the treatment of ADD include Ritalin, Adderall and Concerta. The non-stimulant drug Strattera has also been widely prescribed as treatment for ADD.
While there is a place for prescription medication in certain cases of ADD, careful consideration should be taken regarding possible side effects and cautions.
Short-acting stimulants may wear off quickly, and since adult with ADD administer medication themselves, problems with forgetfulness may cause multiple-day dosing.
Adults with ADD may experience significant difficulty in the evening when they do housework, pay bills, help children with homework, or drive. They may be tempted to use substances "to relax", which can lead to addiction and drug-dependency. Teens may sell their medication to friends, or combine it with other substances.
Natural ADD Remedies for ADD in Adults
Research into the long-term effects of Ritalin and other drugs prescribed for ADD is still in its early stages, and must be continued. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of using these medications or treating your teen with these medications.
There are alternative treatment options available for adult attention deficit disorder. Making simple changes in diet, sleep, exercise and routine can help. Even trying more involved approaches like incorporating relaxation therapies such as guided imagery, meditation techniques or yoga can be beneficial.
There are also many natural ADD remedies which can help maintain harmony, health and systemic balance in the brain and nervous system, without side effects or sedation. These products are known for their supportive function in maintaining brain, nervous system and circulatory health, and wellbeing.