ADHD treatment

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) treatment for Adults:

What is ADHD and How Does it Affect Adults?

ADHD, a neurodevelopmental disorder commonly linked with children, can persist into adulthood, significantly influencing daily activities, relationships, and work.

In adults, ADHD may present differently than in children, posing challenges for recognition and diagnosis. Symptoms can include difficulty concentrating, procrastination, disorganization, restlessness, frequent daydreaming, and impatience.

Adults with ADHD might make careless mistakes, forget appointments, or be easily distracted by unrelated thoughts or stimuli.

Additionally, feelings of anxiety, depression, irritability, and struggles with self-identity can occur. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking ADHD assessments is crucial for effective management and improving quality of life.

At Aspris Wellbeing Centres, we assist in identifying these symptoms and provide insights into their impact on adult life.

Can ADHD in Adults be Treated? If So, What ADHD Treatment Options are Available?

Several options are available for managing ADHD, ranging from medications to behavioral interventions. Medications, particularly stimulant types, are often used due to their effectiveness and rapid onset of action.

Broadly, these medications are classified into stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants.

In addition to medication, therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Behavioral Coaching are employed to help individuals develop skills for managing emotions, coping with stress, controlling impulsivity, and improving organization.

These approaches also focus on enhancing time management and problem-solving abilities.

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.

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.

Why Should I Seek ADHD Assessment and Treatment?

Adults with ADHD can experience significant challenges, as their symptoms can impact various aspects of life. Their quality of life is often restricted, and they may feel they need to exert extra effort at work compared to others who manage tasks effortlessly.

Over time, this can lead to chronic mood issues, anger, sleep disturbances, relationship difficulties, and substance abuse.

However, with proper ADHD assessments, diagnosis, and ADHD treatment, individuals can achieve a more typical lifestyle.

Daily tasks and work become easier and less strenuous, allowing the individual to feel calmer, more relaxed, and focused. An accurate assessment is crucial for accessing the right support and making life more manageable.

Outpatient ADHD 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.

Our ADHD treatment centers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are home to a dedicated team of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and mental health experts ready to assist you with the treatments mentioned above.

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 that suggest you should seek ADHD assessments and treatment:

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 providing ADHD treatment 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.