Most of us are familiar with ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children. We may have sat next to somebody at school who always appeared disorganized, had problems sitting still, and seemed on a series of constant back and forth trips to the principal’s office.
More recent attention has focused on previously undiagnosed adults and ADHD’s impact on their work, relationships, and other life areas.
First Things First. Can You Clarify the Symptoms?
Symptoms can be broken down into three areas:
- Inattention
- Impulsiveness
- Hyperactive behavior
Inattention may present as careless mistakes and an overall lack of attention to details. There may be difficulties focusing on tasks and frequent distractions, and sidetracking away from the primary work on hand.
Impulsive behaviors often show up as fidgeting, observed in tapping hands and feet, or the constant squirming in our seats. Other signs include excessive talking beyond what is required for everyday conversation.
It Seems as Though That Could Be Me! How Do I Know for Sure?
As you read through the description of symptoms, it may be easy to think we all have ADHD. With most of us attached to smart devices all competing for our attention, even the best among us can get distracted! And who doesn’t fidget during yet another meeting that would have been better off as an email?
Thankfully, signs in and of themselves are not necessarily symptoms of ADHD. For a diagnosis, the symptoms presented above should present in two or more areas of our life:
- Personal Life
- Frequently losing things such as mobile phones, glasses, and wallet
- Inability to keep appointments or arrive on time
- Professional Life
- Difficulty prioritizing tasks
- Trouble finishing a project
- Difficulty getting started on a project
- Frequently making mistakes within an area of professional competency
- Social Situations
- Impatience with others
- Frequent interruptions when others are speaking — abruptly entering into conversations that might not even concern us
Those of us dealing with these symptoms will be familiar with the impact of ADHD on our personal and professional life. Others may think our impulsive behavior is rude, and we might miss out on promotions, professional engagements, and long-term relationships.
Am I More at Risk of Substance Abuse With ADHD?
It is not unusual for those of us with ADHD to self-medicate for relief. The choice of alcohol as a substance may be used to help us relax; however, alcohol affects our ability to think clearly, enhancing our risk-taking attitudes while under the influence. When paired with the impulsivity of ADHD, we might be more inclined to make decisions we might later regret. This may include the decision to drive while impaired or try another habit-forming substance.
In Terms of Treatment, What Can Adults Expect With ADHD?
If you have ADHD, you may have a high risk of developing a co-occurring disorder. Co-occurring disorders mean two conditions present life-affecting symptoms. These may be depression and substance abuse, schizophrenia and substance abuse, and in this case, ADHD and substance abuse.
Broadly speaking, before an intensive medically supervised detoxification program commences, an intake assessment takes place. An intake assessment similar to Oceanfront Recovery ensures the information collected represents our rehabilitation needs in the best possible way.
Following a closely monitored detox schedule, you then enter a period of intensive rehabilitation that includes both individual and group counseling sessions that best fit your ADHD recovery needs; this may consist of closely monitored medical maintenance where appropriate.
Can Oceanfront Help Teach Me to Cope With ADHD?
Oceanfront Recovery understands that ADHD and substance abuse are often linked together. Therapists trained in co-occurring disorders, specifically ADHD, work alongside us to help you gain the necessary skills to cope with your ADHD symptoms.
Oceanfront-trained therapists understand how sometimes, the medication we are prescribed to help us deal with ADHD can become addictive. This makes ADHD and substance abuse that much more complicated an issue to address. All the more reason to work with knowledgeable and experienced therapists who understand ADHD and addiction complexities.
How Will I Be Diagnosed?
To accurately diagnose ADHD, a comprehensive evaluation is performed by a psychiatrist, medical doctor, or psychologist possessing an expert, working knowledge of ADHD. This assessment is intended to promote not only a full understanding of your symptoms but to make sure your ADHD symptoms are not caused by another psychiatric or mental health disorder.
Upon completing the diagnosis, medical professionals at Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach can commence an intensive treatment and aftercare program that fits your schedule of commitments in your career and your family.
Most of us are familiar with ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Symptoms can be broken down into three primary areas: inattention, impulsiveness, and hyperactive behavior. If you have ADHD, you may have a high risk of developing a co-occurring disorder. Change your story. Change your life. Your safety and privacy are always protected. At Oceanfront Recovery, we are proud to offer a boutique of specialized services to facilitate individualized recovery and clinical detoxification for busy professionals and adults. Supporting your commitment to get clean, stay clean and discover healthy lifestyle alternatives, our modern, attractive facilities nestled in the laid-back community of Laguna Beach offer ample opportunity for you to restore your professional and family life. Caring case managers, counselors, and wellness staff are there to support your commitment to recovery in an accessible, practical, and affordable environment. Calling Oceanfront Recovery today may be just what you need to change your story, and possibly, your life. We can’t wait to meet you. (877) 279-1777
