At Crescent City Psychiatric, we understand the challenges you face living with ADHD. You’ve likely had ADHD since you were little, and you’re sick of forgetting things and constantly missing appointments. Frustrated, you wonder, “Does ADHD get better with age?”
ADHD is a lifelong neurological condition, so unfortunately, it never goes away. However, it is possible to learn how to better manage the symptoms.
Below, learn about ADHD treatment options from a reliable psychiatrist in Metairie.
What You Need To Know About ADHD
ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a neurological condition that develops in early childhood. People with ADHD have symptoms such as trouble sitting still, memory problems, fidgeting, and difficulty making decisions.
Types of ADHD
ADHD symptoms can vary widely. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may diagnose you with one of three types of ADHD:
- Inattentive ADHD (formerly ADD): People with inattentive ADHD may have trouble staying focused and paying attention, especially to things they don’t find interesting or important. If you have inattentive ADHD, you might make careless mistakes or frequently forget things.
- Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD: If you have hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, you might feel as though you’ve had too many cups of coffee. Symptoms can include heightened energy, restlessness, and poor decision-making ability.
- Combined ADHD: Combined ADHD, as the name implies, combines symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD.
How Symptoms of ADHD Change As You Age
ADHD symptoms never fully go away, but they can change throughout your life. Symptoms typically become noticeable when a child starts elementary school and is expected to sit still and focus on lessons.
Children with ADHD may show symptoms such as:
- Struggling to sit still or wait their turn
- Having trouble paying attention when others are talking
- Doing poorly on assignments that rely on memory
- Trouble learning and comprehending subject matter
As children grow into adolescents and then teens, the symptoms of ADHD can become more pronounced. Even neurotypical teens face struggles due to fluctuating hormones and the pressure to do well in school. It’s easy to imagine how ADHD can make their lives even more challenging.
Adolescents and teens with ADHD may experience:
- Poor grades due to an inability to concentrate in school
- Poor decision-making abilities and impulsivity
- Trouble making friends
- Engagement in risky behaviors, such as underage drinking or driving without a license
Symptoms can improve if you get treatment, but if you have untreated ADHD, they may worsen. If any of these symptoms resonate with you, then you might have untreated ADHD:
- Problems at work due to forgetfulness and/or an inability to pay attention
- Rapidly jumping from one thought to the next (racing thoughts)
- Trouble handling stress and frustration
- Social anxiety and difficulties getting along with peers
- Relationship struggles
People with ADHD often have other coexisting mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety. Any mental health condition, if left untreated, can worsen over time.
Treatment for ADHD
ADHD treatments vary depending on the age of the patient. Children can benefit from physical activity and music therapy. Parental education can help parents learn how to manage their child’s ADHD symptoms more effectively, too.
Many doctors recommend cognitive behavioral therapy for childhood ADHD. CBT teaches children techniques to help them shift their thought patterns and stay focused. Medication is yet another option. Medication helps decrease hyperactivity, but it does have side effects parents must consider.
Adults may benefit from many of the same treatments that help children with ADHD. Exercise and lifestyle changes, such as learning to manage stress and getting enough sleep, can work wonders.
Many adults with ADHD do well with medication such as Vyvanse, Adderall, Mydayis, Evekeo, Concerta, and Ritalin. If you don’t want to rely on drugs, consider natural supplements that have been shown to increase focus and mood.
Let Us Help You Manage Symptoms of ADHD
Now that you have the answer to the question, “Does ADHD get better with age?” we welcome you to contact us at Crescent City Psychiatric. Our providers treat ADHD in adults and children, and we’re committed to helping you feel your best.
To book your appointment, call (985) 249-1322.
