Skip to main content
Article
Adult ADHD: Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis, and Medication Management
Psychiatry
  • Julie Gentile, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Rafay Atiq, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Paulette Marie Gillig, Wright State University - Main Campus
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-1-2006
Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persists into adulthood in approximately 10 to 60 percent of individuals diagnosed in childhood. Expression of symptoms changes in the adult assessed for the disorder. The symptoms of adult ADHD resemble the symptoms of childhood ADHD, but symptom intensity, especially hyperactivity, may decrease over time. A childhood history of ADHD is requisite for a diagnosis of adult ADHD, although full DSM-IV criteria for the childhood disorder need not be met as long as there exists impairment in multiple settings (i.e., academic, relationship, and occupational). There is a high probability of co-morbid disorders, as well as the likelihood that the adult with ADHD has developed coping mechanisms to compensate for his or her impairment. Pharmacologic treatments and multiple types of psychotherapy are available for adults with ADHD.

Citation Information
Julie Gentile, Rafay Atiq and Paulette Marie Gillig. "Adult ADHD: Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis, and Medication Management" Psychiatry Vol. 3 Iss. 8 (2006) p. 25 - 30 ISSN: 15505952
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/julie-gentile/16/