ADULT ADHD
What is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
ADHD is a common behavioural disorder that affects focus, organisation, planning, working memory, managing emotions, self-control and impulses in daily life. The cause of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been linked to genetics, altered brain structure and family history, and is more common amongst boys. Although attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was believed only to affect children as the symptoms tend to disappear as children age, it is now known that these symptoms may persist into adulthood, however, take a slightly different form.
How do I know I have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Easily distracted
- Unable to follow directions or finish tasks
- Problems with organisation
- Forgets daily activities
- Tends to lose things
- Doesn't like sitting still
- Fidgets and squirms when sitting
- Struggles to play quietly
- Has trouble waiting for his or her turn
- Blurts out answers in class
- Interrupts others
Adults with ADHD present with less hyperactivity and more symptoms related to inattention and impulse control, they may experience the following symptoms:
- Anxiety and depression
- Chronic forgetfulness
- Impulsiveness
- Low self-esteem
- Poor organisational skills
- Procrastinating often
- Mood swings and anger issues
- Easily frustrated
- Being distracted and not completing tasks timeously at work
- Problems setting goals
- Substance use
- Relationship issues
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Although fairly common, it is essential that if your child or you as an adult are experiencing such symptoms, that you seek the professional help of Dr Mhlane in order to help reduce the symptoms and ensure optimal cognitive functioning to make learning at school easier for children and as an adult optimal work performance, with ability to fulfil all necessary adult responsibilities.
How can Dr Tsepiso Mhlane help?
Many symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be treated with medication. Medications such as stimulants may help relieve the symptoms of hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviour, as well as help, increase the attention span for concentration. Choosing the right medication for each individual requires a patient-centred approach, which Dr Mhlane prides herself in doing. In addition to medication, therapy may aid children and adults learn a structured routine, change behaviour, better handle their emotions and improve self-esteem. Support groups may also be helpful for building relationships and learning social skills that are lacking due to the disorder.
Whether therapy is done by Dr Mhlane or by a specialised psychologist, she aims to aid patients towards living functional lives without the negative symptoms that ADHD may bring to children's development. While experienced in dealing with children who suffer from the disorder, she has a special interest in treating adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), including the emotional complications that it may bring; from the anxiety and depression to behavioural changes which can all be optimised with the correct management.
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