ADHD After 50
Today, research has shown that ADHD symptoms can persist into adulthood and throughout one’s lifetime. Here are some of the characteristics and treatment options available to older adults with ADHD.
Today, research has shown that ADHD symptoms can persist into adulthood and throughout one’s lifetime. Here are some of the characteristics and treatment options available to older adults with ADHD.
Dr. William Dodson, a psychiatrist and ADHD expert, has a theory that the ADHD brain is motivated by interest versus the non-ADHD brain which is motivated by importance. Pete Resch, an Edge Coach, relates a story that illustrates that principle in action.
Clinicians and researchers have long known that individuals with ADHD are more prone to engaging in risky behaviors such as smoking, gambling, substance abuse and unprotected sex. New studies show that adults with ADHD may engage in more risky behavior because of an exaggerated sense of benefit and a lessened ability to understand the consequences.
If you have ADHD, you know how hard it can be to motivate yourself to do those boring but necessary tasks. Intrinsic motivation can be tough, and it can be difficult to find the right external motivation that works for you. Gamifying your life might just be the answer. Gamification can make life with ADHD easier by providing the boost of external motivation you might need to get things done.
Research indicates that college students with ADHD have a greater chance of failing and having to retake classes, getting lower grade point averages, and leaving college without graduating than students without ADHD. Despite the challenges, there are strategies that can help make the transition to college from high school easier and more successful.
The symptoms of adult ADHD – e.g., trouble focusing, difficulty prioritizing tasks, and lateness – can make work life challenging to say the least. That is why choosing or transitioning to the right career is doubly important if you have adult ADHD. A diagnosis of ADHD does not mean that your work life is doomed to being a constant struggle. You can identify the type of work that leverages your ADHD strengths so you can get the most out of your career.