WREX.com – Rockford’s News LeaderPsychologist: Adults May Not Realize They Have ADHD

Psychologist: Adults May Not Realize They Have ADHD

By Inggrid Yonata

ROCKFORD - There are plenty of reports on children and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or A.D.H.D. But it turns out, many adults have the disorder and don't even know it.  

One Rockford Clinical Psychologist says 8-million adults have A.D.H.D in the nation and it's estimated more than half of them don't know it.   Many find out only after their employers or families make them see a doctor.   Dr. Frank Cushing, a Clinical Psychologist for 30 years said their diagnoses came act as a confirmation and answer as to why they find it hard to stay organized and focused at their workplaces.   Still, others are in denial, saying that's just their personality.

Doctor Frank Cushing said just because someone has A.D.H.D, it doesn't mean that he/she can't be successful in life. Dr. Cushing said, he evaluates judges, physicians and airline pilots who have the disorder. 

A.D.H.D is hereditary.  Those affected may be forgetful or find it hard to focus or complete a task, and fidget a lot.  Some of those symptoms can make a simple chore like going to the grocery store a tough errand to run.   "We can't fix, all we can do is manage," Dr. Cushing said.

Some do that by taking notes, making lists and marking their calendars. Doctor Cushing says others choose jobs that work for them.   For example, a person with A.D.H.D may do well as a car salesman, but when it comes to details, like dealing with the interest rates and financing, "they turn it over to the business manager who deals with the nitty gritty," Dr. Cushing said.

Although there is no cure for A.D.H.D, Dr. Cushing said with proper treatment people can go on with their lives like everybody else.  "It's not like the end of the world, it's very manageable, very treatable," he said.

Treatments for adults with A.D.H.D usually require a combination of medications, counseling, changes in behavior and lifestyle.