It's just my ADHD kicking in....

Over the last several years, there has been a great deal of attention given to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), formerly known as Attention Deficit Disorder, or ADD, in children. This disorder is largely considered a disorder of childhood, however, if you WERE diagnosed in childhood, it is quite possible that you still have some of the symptoms or characteristics. But what many people don't know is that you can be first diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood.

Adult ADHD is frustrating and can interfere with normal, everyday functioning. And it can be treated very effectively with behavioral strategies, therapy, and/or medication (in severe cases). In many instances, ADHD has been missed in childhood, and before it was commonly known, children might have been labeled as "bad kids", lazy, class clown, day dreamer, or slacker. The fact is, ADHD can be present, and undiagnosed, in adults for many years. They learn to compensate for their difficulties, and find careers that fit their disorganized or unfocused way of life.

www.Helpguide.org is a nonprofit website that provides information about ADHD and outlines several Myths about Adult ADHD and provides the facts:

MYTH: ADHD is just a lack of willpower. People with ADHD are just undisciplined and lazy.
FACT: ADHD is a real problem and is a chemical imbalance in the brain that affects planning, impulse control and focus.

MYTH: All kids have trouble with attention, and they will grow out of it when they become adults.
FACT: While many children have difficulty paying attention at all times, and some have a high level of energy, one would be diagnosed with ADHD if these symptoms interfere with their successful functioning. In addition, The symptoms of ADHD can change over time, and appear very different in adults.

MYTH: People who have ADHD don't have any other mental health disorders.
FACT: Those with ADHD are 6 times more likely to have a co-occurring disorder or learning disability.

MYTH: You have to have been diagnosed with ADHD as a child to have it as an adult.
FACT: Many adults struggle for years with symptoms of ADHD that have gone undetected, unrecognized, and untreated.

Signs and symptoms of ADHD in adulthood are:

• Difficulty concentrating and staying on task.
• Becoming hyperfocused and blocking out all other stimuli.
• Lack of organization and forgetfulness.
• Problems controlling their emotions.
• Restlessness, agitation or hyperactivity.

Untreated, ADHD can cause problems in everyday life, such as relationship difficulties, financial and work problems, emotional and physical concerns. People with ADHD are more likely to have auto and other types of accidents. In addition, they often neglect routine checkups and do not take care of their physical health. Finally, adults with ADHD can be disorganized and fail to take care of bills and other obligations (i.e. renewing drivers license, etc).

The good news is that there is help available.  Therapy, coaching, training in organization and planning, and/or effective medications such as Concerta, Straterra, Adderral or Ritalin, can help minimize the negative effects of ADHD on both children and adults.In addition, the following article provides self-help strategies for ADHD.

http://helpguide.org/mental/adhd_add_adult_strategies.htm

Don't forget, HELP IS AVAILABLE.  Want to know more? ASK ME!