Getting To Know ADHD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. Usually, the condition is first diagnosed in childhood and often continues into adulthood.
Children with ADHD generally have difficulty paying attention, controlling impulsive behavior (perhaps acting without thinking about what the consequences will be), or becoming overactive.
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ADHD in adults can lead to unstable relationships, poor performance at work or school, low self-esteem, and other problems.
ADHD Adult Symptoms
In some cases, ADHD is not detected or diagnosed until the person is an adult. ADHD symptoms in adults may not be as obvious as ADHD symptoms in children. In adults, symptoms of hyperactivity may decrease, but other symptoms persist.
Here are the common symptoms of ADHD in adults as quoted from the Mayo Clinic:
- Impulsive
- Poor time management skills
- Difficulty focusing on a task
- Difficulty multitasking at once
- Restless
- Easily get frustrated
- Frequent mood swings
- Difficulty completing tasks
- Irritability
- Difficulty coping with stress
If you look at the list of symptoms above, almost everyone has symptoms similar to ADHD at some time in their lives. It's important to note that ADHD is diagnosed only when the symptoms are severe enough to cause serious problems in your life.
Also, read: WHO Names Loneliness as Global Health Threat.
Diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be difficult because certain ADHD symptoms are similar to symptoms caused by other conditions, such as anxiety disorder. And many adults with ADHD also have at least one other mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety.
Symptoms of ADHD in children
A child with ADHD may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Lots of daydreaming
- Often forget or lose a lot of things
- Restless
- Talking too much
- Making careless mistakes or taking unnecessary risks
- Difficult to resist temptation
- Having difficulty getting along with others
ADHD Medication
Treatment of ADHD can be done through pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapy. Pharmacological therapy involves the use of drugs, such as the stimulants methylphenidate and amphetamine sulfate, as well as nonstimulant drugs such as atomoxetine.
Methylphenidate, as a first-line therapy, has been shown to address ADHD symptoms, working by inhibiting the reuptake of the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and catecholamines. Methylphenidate tablets available in Indonesia are slow-release and given according to the doctor's dosage.
The importance of the family's role in supporting the success of therapy cannot be ignored, especially since ADHD patients are mostly children and adolescents.
In treatment, the dose of methylphenidate is gradually increased until an optimal therapeutic response is achieved. Although this drug has side effects such as difficulty sleeping, anxiety, weight loss, nausea, and decreased appetite, its greater benefits keep it a given. Discontinuation of the drug needs to be supervised by a doctor and can be done under certain conditions, such as an unsuccessful response or the appearance of dangerous side effects.
Other stimulant medications, such as dexamphetamine, levoamphetamine, and dextroamphetamine, are also effective and safe for the treatment of ADHD. However, it is not currently available in Indonesia. In addition, nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine may be an alternative for children and adults with ADHD. Atomoxetine works by inhibiting norepinephrine uptake and increasing dopamine levels.