Why ADHD is Difficult to Diagnose in Adults
Dr. Shaunak Ajinkya, consultant psychiatrist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital (Mumbai, India) - said that everyone can experience problems such as reduced attention, difficulty concentrating or hyperactivity or even feeling restless and having difficulty sitting still, impulsiveness... at some point in their life.
“But there are cases where this condition occurs more frequently, and people are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adulthood, but the truth is that it has existed since childhood,” says Dr. Shaunak Ajinkya.
The reason diagnosis in adults can be difficult is because of overlapping symptoms, such as bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, or substance abuse disorders.
ADHD can absolutely coexist, and at the same time, they can exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD, creating a cycle of increasing dysfunction and distress.
Therefore, doctors often consider a detailed history, symptoms from the patient, and information from relatives or other significant others who know the individual well.
How to control this condition?
To control ADHD, Dr. Shaunak Ajinkya recommends a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications.
Among these, drugs such as stimulants (eg, methylphenidate) and non-stimulants (eg, atomoxetine) help regulate attention and behavior. But these drugs should only be used by prescription.
Additionally, psychological counseling in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help patients develop coping strategies, improve organizational skills, address negative thinking patterns, and provide practical support in managing daily tasks and responsibilities.
Lifestyle changes, in particular, play an important role. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep (seven to nine hours a day), and mindfulness practices (meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, journaling, or visualizing a peaceful scene) can significantly reduce symptoms.
Patients can use tools like planners, reminders, and apps designed to manage daily tasks.
