1718 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 265, Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 254-3508
Atlanta Psychiatric Consultation Center | General Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry and Evaluation Team

ADHD In Adults

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), whose telltale symptoms include impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattention, has received a lot of notoriety over the past few decades and is among the most well recognized developmental problems in children.

Some of the symptoms of adult ADHD include:

  • Inability to complete tasks within a given time frame.
  • Inability to retain information.
  • Inability to follow directions appropriately.
  • Inability to concentrate on a given task.

These difficulties may lead to behavioral, emotional, social, vocational and academic problems.

What are the Common Behaviors and Problems of Adult ADHD?
Those suffering from adult ADHD may display any or all of the following problems to varying degrees:

  • Chronic lateness and forgetfulness.
  • Anxiety.
  • Low self-esteem.
  • Employment problems.
  • Difficulty controlling anger.
  • Impulsiveness.
  • Substance abuse or addiction.
  • Poor organization skills.
  • Procrastination.
  • Low frustration tolerance.
  • Chronic boredom.
  • Difficulty concentrating when reading.
  • Mood swings.
  • Depression.
  • Relationship problems.

Adults with ADHD tend to have some history of difficulty in school. Many did poorly or were forced to repeat a grade or may have even been forced to drop out. Their employment history also tends to show that ADHD sufferers change jobs frequently and may have poor performance ratings.

How Is Adult ADHD Diagnosed?
At Atlanta Psychiatric Consultation Center, ADHD is diagnosed by clinical psychiatric history in conjunction with psychological testing.

Treating Adult ADHD
Adult ADHD may be treated with one or more of the following:
  • Medication
  • Individual cognitive and behavioral therapy to enhance self-esteem.
  • Behavioral therapy
  • Relaxation training and stress management to reduce anxiety and stress.
  • Behavioral coaching to teach the person strategies for organizing home and work activities.
  • Job coaching or mentoring to support better working relationships and improve on-the-job performance.

Assessment and a complete and comprehensive customized treatment plan are essential to maintain each patient. Family support and the building of the patient’s self esteem are also crucial factors in successful theatment.