Navigating Adult ADHD: How Can a Psychologist Help?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. While often associated with childhood, many adults struggle with ADHD symptoms well into their later years. In Australia, it’s estimated that 2-3% of adults live with ADHD. This blog post aims to help you understand adult ADHD, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, with a focus on how clinical psychology can help manage this condition.

Do I Have Adult ADHD? Recognising the Signs

ADHD in adults can manifest differently than in children, often making it harder to recognize. Common symptoms include:

Difficulty focusing on tasks: Struggling to maintain attention on tasks or conversations.
Forgetfulness in daily activities: Frequently forgetting appointments, commitments, or daily chores.
Trouble with time management and organisation: Chronic lateness, poor organisational skills, and procrastination.
Impulsivity in decision-making: Making hasty decisions without considering the consequences.
Restlessness or fidgeting: Feeling restless or unable to sit still.
Mood swings and emotional dysregulation: Experiencing rapid mood changes and difficulty managing emotions.
Difficulty in maintaining relationships: Struggling with social interactions and maintaining friendships or romantic relationships.
Struggles with work or academic performance: Underperforming at work or in academic settings despite potential.

If you consistently experience several of these symptoms and they significantly impact your daily life, you may have adult ADHD. However, it’s important to note that only a qualified healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis.

ADHD in Women: A Different Presentation

ADHD often presents differently in women compared to men, which can lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. Women with ADHD may experience:

Inattentiveness rather than hyperactivity: Difficulty sustaining attention, easily distracted.
Anxiety and depression: Higher rates of co-occurring anxiety and depression.
Low self-esteem: Struggling with feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt.
Difficulty with social relationships: Challenges in maintaining friendships and social interactions.
Struggles with organisation and time management: Chronic disorganisation and time management issues.
Tendency to internalise symptoms: Keeping struggles to themselves, leading to feelings of overwhelm and stress.

These differences can make it challenging for women to recognise their ADHD symptoms and seek appropriate help. In Australia, research suggests that women are diagnosed with ADHD later in life compared to men, often after experiencing significant life challenges.

Assessing and Diagnosing Adult ADHD

Diagnosing adult ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified mental health professional, such as a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. Assessment typically involves some of the following:

Initial Consultation: conducting a thorough clinical interview to understand your symptoms, medical history, life experiences and how they impact your life.
Behavioural Observation: Observing your behaviour during the assessment to identify signs of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Standardised Assessments: using validated questionnaires and rating scales to measure ADHD symptoms and their impact on your daily functioning.
Cognitive Testing: administering tests to assess attention, memory, and executive functioning.
Differential Diagnosis: considering other conditions that may mimic ADHD symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders.
Collateral Information: with your consent, gathering information from family members or review past school records to understand your developmental history.

Medication Treatments for Adult ADHD

it’s important to understand the role of medication in ADHD treatment. Psychologists do not prescribe medications, and the choice of medication and dosage is typically determined by a psychiatrist or a GP with experience in ADHD management. In Australia, several medications are approved for adult ADHD. Stimulant medications are the best-known and most widely used ADHD medications. Non-stimulants don’t not work as quickly as stimulants, but their effect can last up to 24 hours. Medications for ADHD work by altering neurotransmitter levels in the brain, helping to improve focus and reduce impulsivity.

Psychological Treatments for Adult ADHD

At MyLife Psychologists in Sydney, we offer evidence-based psychological interventions for adult ADHD. Our approach typically includes:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours associated with ADHD. It can improve time management, organisation, and emotional regulation.
Mindfulness-Based Interventions: These techniques can enhance attention and reduce impulsivity by promoting present-moment awareness.
Executive Function Training: We work on improving skills like planning, prioritising, and task initiation.
Social Skills Training: For those struggling with interpersonal relationships, we offer strategies to enhance communication and social interactions.
Psychoeducation: Understanding ADHD and its impact on your life is crucial. We provide education about the condition and its management.
Lifestyle Modifications: We help you implement structure and routines that support ADHD management, including sleep hygiene, exercise, and nutrition.

The Therapy Process for Adult ADHD

When you engage in therapy for adult ADHD at our Sydney clinic, you can expect:

Assessment and Goal Setting: We’ll work together to understand your specific challenges and set realistic, achievable goals.
Skill Building: Each session will focus on developing specific skills to manage ADHD symptoms.
Practice and Implementation: Between sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to practice new skills in real-life situations.
Regular Review: We’ll continually assess progress and adjust our approach as needed.
Long-term Management: ADHD is a chronic condition, so we focus on long-term strategies for ongoing symptom management.

Embracing Neurodiversity: Our Affirming Therapy Approach

At MyLife Psychologists, we embrace a neurodiversity-affirming approach to therapy. This means we see ADHD not as a deficit, but as a variation in human neurology. This approach acknowledges that neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, have unique strengths and perspectives. Rather than focusing on “fixing” impairments, we aim to support and empower our clients by recognising their inherent value and potential.

The key principles of neurodiversity-affirming therapy include:

Embracing Uniqueness: We celebrate the unique traits and strengths of neurodivergent individuals.
Environmental Adaptations: We work to modify environments to better support neurodivergent needs, rather than forcing individuals to conform to neurotypical standards.
Respecting Communication Styles: We honour and adapt to different communication
Sensory Needs: We recognise and accommodate individual sensory needs to create a comfortable therapeutic environment.
Self-Advocacy: We empower clients to advocate for themselves and seek accommodations in various settings, such as workplaces and educational institutions.
Affirming Identity: We validate neurodivergent identities and encourage clients to embrace their true selves without masking or camouflaging their traits.

Potential Benefits of Psychological Treatment for Adult ADHD

Engaging in psychological treatment can lead to numerous benefits:

Improved Daily Functioning:

Enhanced ability to manage time, stay organised, and complete tasks efficiently.
Reduced procrastination and avoidance behaviours.

Better Relationships:

Improved communication skills and reduced impulsivity, leading to healthier relationships.
Increased understanding and support from loved ones.

Enhanced Emotional Well-being:

Reduced feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and depression.
Greater self-esteem and confidence in managing ADHD symptoms.

Increased Productivity:

Improved focus and concentration, leading to better performance at work or school.
Effective strategies for managing distractions and maintaining attention.

Empowerment and Self-Advocacy:

Empowerment through knowledge and skills to advocate for yourself in various settings, such as work, school, and healthcare.

Research on Adult ADHD in Australia

Research conducted in Australia has shown that psychological interventions, particularly when combined with medication, can significantly improve quality of life for adults with ADHD.

According to a study published in the Australian Journal of Psychology, approximately 2.5% of adults in Australia have ADHD. Despite its prevalence, ADHD remains under-diagnosed and under-treated in adults, with many individuals unaware that their struggles may be related to ADHD.

The same study found that adults with ADHD are more likely to experience coexisting mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, which can further complicate diagnosis and treatment. This underscores the importance of a comprehensive assessment and a holistic approach to treatment that addresses both ADHD and any coexisting conditions.

Taking the Next Step: Seek Help Today

If you suspect you might have adult ADHD, taking action is the first step toward a better quality of life. Here’s how you can start:

Self-Assessment: Reflect on your experiences and consider using self-assessment tools like the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) to gain initial insights.
Seek Professional Help: Book an appointment with a clinical psychologist for a comprehensive assessment. At MyLife Psychologists, we offer a free 15-minute call with our Care Coordinator to discuss your concerns and determine the next steps.
Gather Information: Prepare for your assessment by gathering relevant information about your symptoms, history, and any previous treatments or evaluations.
Involve Your Support Network: Share your concerns with family members or close friends who can provide additional insights and support.
Stay Informed: Educate yourself about ADHD through reliable sources such as ADHD Australia and the Australian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA).

Conclusion

Living with adult ADHD can be challenging, but with the right support and strategies, it’s possible to manage symptoms effectively and lead a fulfilling life.

If you’re struggling with symptoms of ADHD, don’t hesitate to reach out. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your quality of life. Remember, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, not a personal failing. With the right support, you can develop strategies to harness your strengths and manage your challenges effectively.

At MyLife Psychologists in Sydney, we’re dedicated to helping individuals understand and manage their ADHD through comprehensive assessment, personalised treatment plans, and ongoing support. Take the first step towards understanding and managing your ADHD by booking a free 15-minute call with our Care Coordinator today. Together, we can help you navigate the challenges of ADHD and achieve your personal and professional goals.