Adult ADHD: A Brain That Works Differently

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that most people think is only seen in childhood. However, scientific research shows that ADHD is actually related to the way the brain develops and continues in many people into adulthood.
ADHD is not a “simple inattention” or “laziness” condition; it is a different functioning of the brain in areas such as attention, planning, impulse control and time management. For this reason, ADHD is considered a neurodevelopmental difference.
What Does Neurodevelopmental Difference Mean?
The brain of all of us develops from childhood to adulthood. During this development process, some regions mature early, while some regions develop later. In ADHD, especially the attention, planning and control centers, that is, the frontal region of the brain (prefrontal areas), mature a little later than in typical development.
This situation, the person:
- Having difficulty paying attention to a job,
- Having difficulty making plans or putting things in order,
- He tends to postpone,
- Make quick decisions and regret,
- It may cause him to feel an inner restlessness.
In other words, a person experiences these difficulties not because he is lazy, reckless or disorganized; but because his brain works with a different timing.
What Does ADHD Look Like in Adulthood?
Individuals who are recognized as children who “can't stand still, talk a lot” in childhood may show ADHD symptoms differently in adulthood. For example:
- Although it may seem calm from the outside, there may be an inner restlessness.
- Forgetfulness, irregularity may occur in daily work.
- The habit of procrastination can be triggered by stress and time pressure.
- Sudden decisions, emotional ups and downs may occur.
These symptoms can have a significant impact on work life, relationships, academic life and even parenting attitude.
How Does the Brain with ADHD Work?
There are some differences in the brain in individuals with ADHD:
- Attention and planning centers (prefrontal cortex) mature a little slower in terms of development.
- Some brain chemicals, such as dopamine, may have lower levels. This can make it difficult to stay
- motivated and focused.
- Communication and synchronization between some areas of the brain may be weaker.Dec. This causes
- person to try to cope with many stimuli at the same time.
These differences can cause a person to have problems starting a business, but to perform high after waiting until the last moment.
How This Difference Can Be Managed?
- Most individuals with ADHD may encounter false labels such as “disorganized”, “reluctant”, “undisciplined” for
- years if they go unnoticed. However, with the right knowledge and approach, this situation can be managed much easier.
- Getting a diagnosis is the first step in understanding the cause of the problem.
- Drug treatments can facilitate focus and impulse control by regulating the chemical balance of the brain.
- Skills such as time management, prioritization and self-compassion can be developed with psychotherapy support.
- Small but effective habits for structuring life make a big difference.
As a result;
ADHD is a condition caused by the brain working differently. This difference also exists in many people who are creative, energetic, empathetic and original thinkers. The important thing is to understand what this difference is, get to know yourself without judging and get support if necessary.
It is possible to overcome the difficulties you are experiencing and reach your goals with a different roadmap that suits your learning style.
“To read the diagnostic criteria” Clickhere.
Psikiyatrist & Psikoterapist