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ADHD affects how the brain develops and works, leading to focus, organization, and activity challenges. People with ADHD might find it hard to stay on task, keep track of important items, or listen attentively, which can differ from what is expected for their age. They may also have high energy levels, need to move or fidget constantly, struggle to sit still, interrupt others unintentionally, or wait their turn. These behaviours often go beyond what is typical for their age or developmental stage. ADHD behaviours, such as difficulty concentrating, being overly active, and acting impulsively, often exceed what is typical for a person’s age or developmental stage (Kooij et al., 2010).
While ADHD is commonly diagnosed in childhood, its symptoms often persist into adulthood, impacting various aspects of life. For some individuals, the disorder may remain undiagnosed until adulthood when the challenges of managing careers, relationships, and responsibilities bring the symptoms into sharper focus. Adult ADHD manifests differently than it does in children, with hyperactivity often appearing as restlessness or an inability to relax, and inattention showing up as forgetfulness, procrastination, or difficulty meeting deadlines. Understanding how ADHD affects adults is crucial for identifying effective coping strategies and support systems tailored to their unique needs.
Core Symptoms in Adults
The core symptoms of ADHD in adults include inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation. These symptoms manifest in different ways:
Inattention
Adults with ADHD may struggle to focus on tasks, complete projects, or organize daily activities. Common issues include forgetfulness, procrastination, and becoming easily distracted. This often leads to frustration in work and personal relationships (Kooij et al., 2010).
Hyperactivity
While hyperactivity in children is often physical, in adults, it can manifest as inner restlessness, excessive fidgeting, or difficulty relaxing during activities such as meetings, lectures, or watching movies (Green & Rabiner, 2012).
Impulsivity
Impulsive behaviours, such as interrupting conversations, making hasty decisions, or acting without considering consequences, can strain interpersonal relationships and professional roles (Barkley et al., 2014).
Emotional Dysregulation
Many adults with ADHD experience frequent mood swings, irritability, and frustration. This can lead to challenges in managing stress and maintaining stable relationships (Brod et al., 2012).
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Educational Challenges
Many young adults with ADHD find it difficult to excel in academic settings. They are less likely to enrol in college, more prone to academic probation, and have lower graduation rates than their peers (Barkley et al., 2014). Difficulties in managing time, staying organized, and handling stress contribute to these challenges (Frazier et al., 2007).
Workplace Struggles
ADHD can affect every aspect of employment, from job search to performance. Issues such as disorganization, poor time management, and cognitive impairments often lead to lower occupational status, more frequent absences, workplace accidents, and decreased job stability (Secnik et al., 2005).
Interpersonal Issues
Emotional excitability and impulsivity often result in conflicts with family, friends, and coworkers. Studies indicate that adults with ADHD are more likely to experience short-lived or impaired relationships. (Klein et al., 2012).
Parenting Challenges
Adults with ADHD who are parents may face additional difficulties, especially if their children also have ADHD. This can lead to strained parent-child relationships and increased family stress (Biederman et al., 2000).
Understanding Adult ADHD in Men
Adult ADHD manifests differently in men than in children, often resulting in unique challenges in personal and professional life. Hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention may present as restlessness, difficulty staying organized, or struggles with prioritization. Emotional regulation issues, such as mood swings or anger outbursts, can further complicate relationships. These symptoms, coupled with societal expectations of men to ‘push through’ difficulties, can make it harder for them to seek help. In India, the stigma surrounding mental health adds another layer of difficulty, discouraging many men from addressing their condition.
Challenges Faced by Men with ADHD
Career Difficulties
Men with ADHD often struggle to meet workplace expectations due to procrastination, missed deadlines, or difficulty juggling multiple tasks. These issues may result in poor performance reviews, job dissatisfaction, and low self-esteem. Over time, feelings of inadequacy may develop, further impacting their motivation and career growth.
Relationship Strain
Emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and hyperactivity can lead to frequent misunderstandings and conflicts in relationships. For instance, impulsive interruptions, blurting out inappropriate comments, or forgetting important dates like anniversaries can hurt their loved ones. Emotional reactivity, such as anger outbursts or mood swings, can create an environment where their partner or family members feel like they are walking on eggshells.
Social Stigma
In cultures like India, ADHD and other mental health conditions are often misunderstood. Men with ADHD may feel pressured to meet societal expectations of being calm, composed, and high-functioning, which exacerbates their symptoms and emotional burden. As a result, they may avoid seeking professional help, worsening the cycle of challenges.
Solutions for Managing Adult ADHD
Seek Professional Help
The first step in managing ADHD is a proper diagnosis by a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist. A comprehensive treatment plan may include therapy, medication, or both, tailored to the individual’s needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help men with ADHD develop effective strategies for time management, organization, and emotional regulation. Therapy sessions can focus on managing impulsivity, improving communication skills, and fostering self-awareness.
Medication
In some cases, medications like stimulants or non-stimulants may effectively reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications should be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional.
Establish Routines
Structured daily routines can help individuals manage their time and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Setting fixed hours for work, exercise, meals, and relaxation can provide much-needed stability.
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Use Organizational Tools
Technology can be a great ally. Apps and tools like calendars, task managers, and reminders can help men with ADHD stay on top of deadlines and responsibilities. Time-blocking techniques can also boost productivity.
Why Online Therapy Works for Adult ADHD
Online therapy offers a flexible and accessible way for men to address their ADHD symptoms. Platforms like Rocket Health India connect clients with trained professionals who provide personalized strategies to manage ADHD. Online sessions can be scheduled around busy routines, ensuring consistent support without the need for travel.
Rocket Health India offers tailored ADHD management programs led by experienced therapists. From diagnostic assessments to ongoing therapy, Rocket Health provides tools and techniques to help men regain control of their lives. With a client-centred approach, the platform ensures a safe and judgment-free environment to explore challenges and build practical solutions.
Conclusion
Understanding and managing Adult ADHD in men requires awareness, support, and effective strategies. By recognizing the symptoms, addressing challenges, and seeking professional help, men can lead fulfilling lives despite their ADHD. Online therapy through platforms like Rocket Health India offers accessible, tailored solutions to navigate these challenges effectively.
If you or someone you know needs support, Rocket Health India is here to help. Book your first session today and take the first step toward better well-being!
References
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Fourth Edition: A Handbook for Diagnosis and treatment. (2014, October 30). Guilford Press. https://www.guilford.com/books/Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-Disorder/Russell-Barkley/9781462538874
Brod, M., Pohlman, B., Lasser, R., & Hodgkins, P. (2012). Comparison of the burden of illness for adults with ADHD across seven countries: a qualitative study. Health and quality of life outcomes, 10, 47. https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-7525-10-47
Biederman, J., Mick, E., & Faraone, S. V. (2000). Age-dependent decline of symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: impact of remission definition and symptom type. The American journal of psychiatry, 157(5), 816–818. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.157.5.816
Frazier, T. W., Youngstrom, E. A., Glutting, J. J., & Watkins, M. W. (2007). ADHD and achievement: meta-analysis of the child, adolescent, and adult literatures and a concomitant study with college students. Journal of learning disabilities, 40(1), 49–65. https://doi.org/10.1177/00222194070400010401
Green, A. L., & Rabiner, D. L. (2012). What do we really know about ADHD in college students?. Neurotherapeutics : the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics, 9(3), 559–568. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-012-0127-
Klein, R. G., Mannuzza, S., Olazagasti, M. A., Roizen, E., Hutchison, J. A., Lashua, E. C., & Castellanos, F. X. (2012). Clinical and functional outcome of childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder 33 years later. Archives of general psychiatry, 69(12), 1295–1303. https://doi.org/10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2012.271
Kooij, S. J., Bejerot, S., Blackwell, A., Caci, H., Casas-Brugué, M., Carpentier, P. J., Edvinsson, D., Fayyad, J., Foeken, K., Fitzgerald, M., Gaillac, V., Ginsberg, Y., Henry, C., Krause, J., Lensing, M. B., Manor, I., Niederhofer, H., Nunes-Filipe, C., Ohlmeier, M. D., Oswald, P., … Asherson, P. (2010). European consensus statement on diagnosis and treatment of adult ADHD: The European Network Adult ADHD. BMC psychiatry, 10, 67. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-244X-10-67
Secnik, K., Swensen, A., & Lage, M. J. (2005). Comorbidities and costs of adult patients diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. PharmacoEconomics, 23(1), 93–102. https://doi.org/10.2165/00019053-200523010-00008
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