As someone with ADHD, one of the biggest questions you may have is, "Will my condition get worse as I get older?" You may feel that your symptoms are getting worse with the responsibilities and workload that come with it. Actually, ADHD doesn't get worse as you get older. But there are several factors that can affect how your symptoms manifest. The good news is that with the right treatment and behavioral therapy, many adults can successfully manage their lives. So let's talk about this in more detail.
How does ADHD affect adults?
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) affects adults in a slightly different way than it does young children. As an adult, see if you have any of these symptoms.
| Symptom category | Symptoms seen in adults |
|---|---|
| Inattention |
|
| Hyperactivity | |
| Impulsivity |
An average adult may have at least five symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity. If not treated properly , these symptoms may worsen.
You may be wondering, "Why didn't I recognize this when I was younger?" There could be several reasons for this:
- No one recognized this as a medical condition when you were young.
- The symptoms are not that severe.
- You can cope with those symptoms to some extent.
Many people only realize they have ADHD when they get older, when they start taking on the responsibilities of a job or a family. Because that's when this restlessness and lack of attention become the biggest obstacle.
Research shows that if you start treatment at a young age, you're more likely to control your symptoms and live well into old age. But that doesn't mean you can't start treatment later in life. Starting treatment at any age can make a big difference in improving your quality of life.
What things can make your ADHD symptoms worse?
ADHD symptoms can change over time. Some people may experience a complete disappearance of the condition as they get older. There are several factors that can affect the severity of your symptoms.
- Life experiences
- The support you receive (or lack thereof)
- Physiological changes in the body
- Severe emotional trauma such as grief and loss (Grief)
In addition to these, there are several specific factors that can make ADHD symptoms more difficult as you age.
Stress
Things like a busy life, a lot of work, and stress can all trigger ADHD symptoms. And it works both ways. That is, ADHD can make it harder for you to filter out stressors from your environment, which can make stress worse. If you have a condition like anxiety (which people with ADHD are more likely to have), stress can be even worse.
Lack of sleep
Like stress, sleep and ADHD have a two-way relationship. With ADHD, you may have trouble falling asleep, wake up frequently, and get less sleep. You may also be at higher risk for sleep disorders. When you don't get enough sleep, your brain becomes foggy. This can worsen ADHD symptoms like inattention and inattention. It's also common for sleep problems to increase as you age.
Some foods
There is no clear scientific evidence that what you eat causes or worsens ADHD. However, a healthy diet low in fat, salt, and sugar is good for everyone. There is some evidence that some artificial additives may be problematic. Examples:
- Sodium benzoate
- MSG (Monosodium glutamate)
- Red and yellow pigments
One study found a link between certain pigments and a substance called sodium benzoate, which increases hyperactivity.
Overstimulation
A person with ADHD may have difficulty coping with loud, bright places, such as concerts, amusement parks, crowded markets, or weddings. This is called 'sensory overload.' Symptoms can occur during these times, especially when it is difficult to pay attention to what someone is saying or focus on one thing.
Technology
Some technology tools can help with ADHD. For example, making lists, setting reminders, and alarms on your smartphone can help you stay organized. But some technology can also be distracting. Especially with constant notifications, your already limited attention span can be further disrupted.
Do alcohol and drugs affect ADHD?
Yes. One long-term effect of ADHD is an increased risk of drug and alcohol abuse. This can be caused by:
- Impulsivity: This can lead to making bad decisions.
- Genetic link: It has been found that there is a genetic link between ADHD and the risk of substance use disorder.
- Self-medication: You may turn to alcohol or drugs to relieve your anxiety and stress.
This risk is lower if you received treatment for ADHD when you were younger. Also, treating other mental health problems you may have, such as anxiety and depression, can further reduce this risk.
Do other mental illnesses affect ADHD?
More than two-thirds of people with ADHD have at least one other mental health condition. The most common of these are:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Bipolar disorder
When these conditions coexist, your doctor will guide you on what to treat first and how to manage your symptoms. Therefore, it is very important to talk openly with your doctor about all your concerns.
How do I manage my ADHD as an adult?
Treatment for adult ADHD usually includes stimulant medications and therapy with a mental health counselor to help you learn new patterns of thinking and acting. In addition, here are some other things that may help you:
- Exercise regularly: Especially when you feel very restless and irritable, get some exercise. Go for a walk, run, do something you enjoy.
- Eat nutritious foods: Avoid alcohol, drugs, and tobacco completely.
- Sleep well: Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep every night. Stop looking at screens like TV, computer, and phone at least an hour before bed.
- Get help with time management: Use an app for this, or seek the help of a coach.
- Write things down: Write down things you need to remember, tasks to do, appointments, etc. in a notebook or on your phone.
- Connect with others: Spend time with friends and family who understand your ADHD. Join support groups with other people who have ADHD.
- Take your medications correctly: It is essential to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time, and in the right dosage.
Take-Home Message
- ADHD doesn't get worse with age, but stress, lack of sleep, and lifestyle changes can make symptoms worse.
- ADHD can be managed as an adult. Both medication and behavioral therapy are very effective.
- Starting treatment at any age can make a big, positive difference in your life, so never think it's too late.
- A healthy lifestyle (good sleep, exercise, nutritious food) is a great help in managing ADHD symptoms.
- Talk openly with your doctor about any discomfort you are having and your feelings. Getting the right guidance is the most important thing.
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