At 19, which therapies can help my suspected ADHD symptoms?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 19-year-old female student who has difficulty focusing, organizing tasks, and completing homework. My family suspected I may have ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). I often feel overwhelmed, even when I want to focus.

Could you explain how ADHD is diagnosed?
What is the difference between stimulant and non-stimulant medication?
Are there therapy or coaching strategies that help with school performance?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Many students facing attention challenges often deal with stress, self-doubt, or embarrassment. It's crucial to understand that you are not alone and that effective treatments are available. To diagnose ADHD, healthcare professionals adhere to a systematic approach. There is no singular laboratory test; instead, it relies on a comprehensive clinical assessment.

A psychiatrist or neurologist will inquire about behaviors in childhood, academic performance, organizational skills, forgetfulness, impulsivity, and emotional control. They frequently utilize standardized questionnaires that you, and occasionally teachers or family members, complete. Symptoms must persist for several months, manifest in multiple environments, and significantly disrupt academic, social, or daily activities.

We should also consider other conditions that may resemble ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), such as anxiety, depression, thyroid problems, learning disabilities, or inadequate sleep. Many teenagers are surprised to discover that ADHD can still be present even if they previously excelled in school but now find it challenging to manage increased workloads and organizational expectations.

When it comes to medication, stimulant drugs are the most frequently prescribed and typically the most effective. These include medications based on Methylphenidate (a central nervous system stimulant) and Mephedrone (an empathogen-stimulant drug). They function by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which boosts attention, focus, and impulse control.

The Common side effects may include

Reduced appetite.
Trouble sleeping if taken late in the day.
Mild anxiety in some individuals.
Appetite changes.
Insomnia.

Non-stimulant medications serve as an alternative for those who cannot tolerate stimulants or have specific medical issues. These are Atomoxetine (a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) or certain blood pressure medications like Guanfacine (an oral alpha-2a agonist) or Clonidine (an imidazole derivative).

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.