ADHD treatment in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) treatment for Adults:

What is ADHD? How can it affect adults?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition often associated with children, but it may also continue into adulthood often having a significant impact on their daily lives, relationships and work. For many people, ADHD can continue into adulthood, can manifest differently than in children, often making it challenging to recognize and diagnose. It can manifest as difficulty in concentrating, postponing things, being less organized, feeling restless easily, daydreaming and not being able to wait in queue etc. Many of them do careless mistakes, often forget appointments and frequently sidetracked by unrelated thoughts or external stimuli.   Some of them may feel anxious and depressed with some degree of irritability, and struggle with the sense of self identity.

Recognizing the symptoms and seeking help is the first step towards managing and living well with ADHD.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often associated with children, but it also affects many adults, impacting their daily lives, relationships, and work. ADHD in adults can manifest differently than in children, often making it challenging to recognize and diagnose.

Understanding the symptoms is the first step towards managing and living well with ADHD. At Aspris we will help you identify key symptoms and offer insights into how they may affect various aspects of adult life.

*What causes ADHD?

The exact cause of ADHD in adults is not fully understood, but research suggests that it results from a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Here are some of the primary contributors:

Genetic factors: ADHD often runs in families, indicating a strong genetic component. If a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, has ADHD, there is a higher likelihood of developing the condition.

Neurotransmitter Imbalance: ADHD is associated with imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are crucial for transmitting signals in the brain and are involved in regulating attention and behaviour.

Prenatal Exposure: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as tobacco smoke, alcohol, or drugs during pregnancy, can increase the risk of ADHD. Additionally, maternal stress or complications during pregnancy and delivery may contribute.

Early Childhood Experiences: Low birth weight, premature birth, or significant head injuries in early childhood have been linked to an increased risk of developing ADHD.

Can ADHD in adults be treated? If so, what options are available?

There are a few different options available ranging from medications to behavioural interventions. Often the medications are used for management of ADHD symptoms as they are very effective and in case of stimulants type medication the effects are visible quickly. There are a variety of medications to choose from, but broadly speaking these are classified as stimulants, non-stimulants and antidepressants etc.

Other interventions like psychotherapy (CBT) and Behavioural Coaching are also used to develop skills to manage emotions, cope with stress, manage impulsivity and get better organized. In these approaches, time management and problems solving skills are also targeted.

Lifestyle approaches such as regular exercise, diet modifications, mindfulness and meditation, are complimentary and help to increase focus and reduce stress. Adjustments at work to improve productivity and reduce stress, such as flexible schedules or a quieter work environment may also help.

Why should I get treated?

Adults with ADHD, as discussed above suffer in many ways depending on their symptom burden. In general, the quality of their life is limited by their condition, and they feel that they need to work much harder or put lot of effort at their work, whereas others could do it effortlessly. Many of them over a period develop chronic mood problems, anger issues, sleeping difficulties, relationship difficulties and substance abuse issues.

With the right diagnosis and treatment, the individual can live a normal or near normal life like others and day to day living and work life become much easier and effortless. The person feels more calm, relaxed and focused.

Outpatient Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder treatment in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Aspris' outpatient treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Abu Dhabi and Dubai ensures:

• Flexible and convenient consulting hours, which fit in around your work and other commitments
• Fast access to high quality therapy
• Complete confidentiality and discretion
• Reassurance that you are receiving treatment from highly skilled experts
• Online therapy is available if you are unable to visit us at the clinic

We can offer lots of different therapeutic techniques to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in both our Dubai and Abu Dhabi Wellbeing Centres. These may include a combination of the following:

Medications

1. Stimulants: such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse).
2. Non-Stimulants: such as atomoxetine (Strattera), guanfacine (Intuniv), and clonidine (Kapvay).
3. Antidepressants: sometimes prescribed to help manage symptoms, especially when combined with other conditions like anxiety or depression.

Psychotherapy

1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours.
2. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Combines cognitive therapy with mindfulness strategies to help increase awareness and acceptance of thoughts and feelings.
3. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Helps individuals develop skills to manage emotions, improve relationships, and cope with stress.

Behavioural Interventions

1. Behavioural Coaching: Provides practical strategies to improve organization, time management, and problem-solving skills.
2. Skill-Building Groups: Offer support and strategies for managing symptoms in social or work settings.

Lifestyle and Complementary Approaches

1. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce symptoms of ADHD by improving mood, concentration, and overall mental health.
2. Diet and Nutrition: Some individuals benefit from dietary changes, such as reducing sugar and caffeine intake or incorporating omega-3 fatty acids.
3. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices that increase focus and reduce stress.

Educational and Vocational Support

1. Psychoeducation: Teaching individuals about ADHD and its impact on their lives to empower them with knowledge and strategies.
2. Workplace Accommodations: Adjustments at work to improve productivity and reduce stress, such as flexible schedules or a quieter work environment.

At our specialist Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) treatment centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, our dedicated team of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and other mental health specialists are committed to support you do this.

What are the signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults?

ADHD in adults can present a range of symptoms that affect various aspects of life, from work and relationships to personal well-being. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

Inattention

1. Difficulty Sustaining Attention: Trouble focusing on tasks or conversations for extended periods.
2. Careless Mistakes: Frequent errors in work or other activities due to inattention.
3. Disorganization: Chronic difficulty organizing tasks and activities, leading to missed deadlines and cluttered spaces.
4. Forgetfulness: Often forgetting appointments, commitments, or daily chores.
5. Avoidance of Tasks: Procrastinating or avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort.
6. Easily Distracted: Frequently sidetracked by unrelated thoughts or external stimuli.

Hyperactivity

1. Restlessness: Feeling constantly on the go or unable to stay still, often described as having "inner restlessness."
2. Excessive Talking: Talking excessively or interrupting conversations frequently.
3. Fidgeting: Continuous movement, such as tapping fingers or bouncing legs.
4. Inability to Relax: Difficulty unwinding or participating in quiet activities.

Impulsivity

1. Impulsive Decisions: Making hasty decisions without considering consequences, such as impulsive spending or job changes.
2. Interrupting Others: Frequently interrupting or intruding on others' conversations or activities.
3. Impatience: Difficulty waiting for one's turn in queues or during conversations.
4. Emotional Outbursts: Difficulty regulating emotions, leading to sudden anger or frustration.

Executive Dysfunction

1. Time Management Issues: Chronic lateness or underestimating the time needed to complete tasks.
2. Poor Planning: Struggling with setting goals and following through on plans.
3. Problem-Solving Difficulties**: Finding it hard to think ahead and manage complex situations.

Other Related Symptoms

1. Low Self-Esteem: Struggling with feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth due to ongoing difficulties.
2. Mood Swings: Experiencing frequent and intense shifts in mood.
3. Relationship Problems: Difficulty maintaining personal and professional relationships due to misunderstandings or impulsive behaviour.
4. Substance Abuse: Higher risk of developing substance abuse issues as a way to cope with symptoms. Recognizing these symptoms is a crucial step toward seeking appropriate diagnosis and treatment, which can significantly improve quality of life for adults with ADHD.

What causes ADHD?

The exact cause of ADHD in adults is not fully understood, but research suggests that it results from a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Here are some of the primary contributors:

Genetic Factors

1. Family History: ADHD often runs in families, indicating a strong genetic component. If a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, has ADHD, there is a higher likelihood of developing the condition.
2. Genetic Variations: Specific genetic variations have been linked to ADHD, although no single gene causes the disorder. These variations can affect neurotransmitter systems, particularly those involving dopamine and norepinephrine, which play crucial roles in attention and behaviour regulation.

Neurological Factors

1. Brain Structure and Function: Studies have shown differences in brain structure and activity in individuals with ADHD. Areas of the brain involved in attention, executive function, and impulse control, such as the prefrontal cortex, may develop differently or function less effectively.
2. Neurotransmitter Imbalance: ADHD is associated with imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are crucial for transmitting signals in the brain and are involved in regulating attention and behaviour.

Environmental Factors

1. Prenatal Exposure: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as tobacco smoke, alcohol, or drugs during pregnancy, can increase the risk of ADHD. Additionally, maternal stress or complications during pregnancy and delivery may contribute.
2. Early Childhood Experiences: Low birth weight, premature birth, or significant head injuries in early childhood have been linked to an increased risk of developing ADHD.
3. Lead Exposure: Exposure to high levels of lead, particularly in early childhood, has been associated with ADHD symptoms.

Psychological and Social Factors

1. Chronic Stress: Prolonged exposure to stressful environments, trauma, or adverse childhood experiences can contribute to the development or exacerbation of ADHD symptoms.
2. Parenting and Family Dynamics: While not a direct cause, parenting styles and family interactions can influence the severity and management of ADHD symptoms. Inconsistent discipline, lack of structure, or high family conflict may worsen symptoms.

Other Contributing Factors

1. Diet and Nutrition: While not a primary cause, some studies suggest that certain dietary factors, such as deficiencies in essential fatty acids or excessive sugar intake, may influence ADHD symptoms in some individuals.
2. Sleep Problems: Sleep disorders or chronic sleep deprivation can exacerbate symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. Understanding these factors can help in developing effective treatment plans and strategies for managing ADHD in adults. It is important to note that ADHD is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors, and its manifestation can vary widely among individuals.

Where to get help for ADHD in adults?

Aspris have been treating ADHD in adults in the UAE since 2017, at our specialist clinic in Dubai, and our Wellbeing Centre in Abu Dhabi. We now offer expert help for ADHD in adults in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, at the following locations:

ADHD therapy Dubai

Aspris Wellbeing Centre Dubai
Dubai City Walk, Al Nuzha Street
Building 19

ADHD treatment Abu Dhabi

Aspris Wellbeing Centre Abu Dhabi
King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street
Al Bateen

ADHD in adults can be treated so please take the first steps to leading a fuller life and contact the Aspris depression specialists, they will be happy to talk you through the best counselling for you.

For further information call today on: (+971) 4 385 4493 (Dubai) / (+971) 2 651 8111 (Abu Dhabi) or submit an enquiry form in confidence. We will provide you with details on all our treatments and offer help on how to manage your mental health at a time that suits you.