Adult attention-deficit disorder

Adult attention deficit disorder (AADD) is the common terminology for the psychiatric condition currently known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD), when it occurs in adulthood. Although the exact prevalence in adults is unknown, epidemiologic studies thus far reveal that the condition, marked by inattentiveness, difficulty getting work done, procrastination, or organization problems, probably exists in about 2-4% of adults. The condition persists to adulthood in about half of children diagnosed with the disorder.

Treatment

The diagnosis itself is a form of remedial therapy for some adults. In the words of one woman, diagnosed at age 38 after both her sons has been diagnosed with ADHD, she felt a weight being lifted off her shoulders, saying "I'm not using ADHD as an excuse; it's an explanation. Now I understand why."

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There are many options available to treat people diagnosed with ADHD.

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These options include a variety of medications, behavior-changing therapies, and educational interventions.

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The usual course of treatment may include medications such as methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine), amphetamine (Adderall), or pemoline (Cylert), which are stimulants that decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity and increase attention.

Related Topics:
Methylphenidate - Ritalin - Dextroamphetamine - Dexedrine - Adderall - Pemoline - Cylert

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Approximately 20-25% of people with ADD do not respond to medication. Most experts agree that treatment for ADHD should address multiple aspects of the individual's functioning and should not be limited to the use of medications alone. For children, treatment should include structured classroom management, parent education (to address discipline and limit-setting), and tutoring and/or behavioral therapy for the child. These can be adapted to the individual adult's circumstances and settings.

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Generally, treatments which have proved effective for children were observed to work equally well or better in adults with similar diagnosis.

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See main article Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder for a listing of treatments.

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