Dear Mr. Morton- My son has been diagnosed with ADHD and many of his symptoms resemble mine. Ever since I can remember, I’ve been impulsive, distractible (Can’t focus long enough to read a magazine article) and restless. Can anything be done for ADHD adults? - Frustrated.
Dear Frustrated- Since 30 to 50 percent of ADHD children grow into ADHD adults, I suggest obtaining a thorough diagnosis if these manifestations have, historically, complicated your life. It’s tricky to diagnose between true and mistaken ADHD in adults; you must rule out other possible causes of your restlessness and impulsivity, such as an anxiety or mood disorder.
The diagnosis should include a meticulous life history, including developmental milestones, obtained by your personal accounts and by your personal accounts and by recollections from your parents, siblings, and relatives.
If sufficient evidence indicates your above-mentioned ADHD behaviors have occurred in various aspects of your life (home, school, neighborhood, and family get-togethers) since childhood, starting at or before age 7 (origin of ADHD in adulthood never happens), your chances for proper diagnosis and treatment will increase Many intelligent and capable adults truly fit the ADHD profile. Their impulsive, distractible and restless manners make it fatiguing for them to perform certain tasks which others do with ease: finishing magazine articles; holding chats with people without regrettably saying the wrong thing at the wrong time; finishing detailed tasks; receiving job recognition and promotions; making good grades in school; and, not surprisingly, maintaining an adequate self-esteem.
Visit the Family Journal site for a complete description of diagnostic ADHD symptoms and access to supports groups and area professionals who specialize in adult ADHD diagnosis and treatment, plus free videos and newspaper/journal articles on this topic.
It’s interesting your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, for an abnormally high proportion of the 5 million ADHD adults have similar-diagnosed children. Twin studies reveal a strong, genetic role. Remember, all children with developmental delays need positive strokes, and so do kids and adults with ADHD!
Robert Morton, M.Ed., Ed.S., a native of Rocky River, has retired from his positions of school psychologist and adjunct professor in the School of Leadership & Policy Studies at BGSU. Questions or concerns about family, parenting, educational, or personal issues? Contact him at the Family Journal
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