By Dr. Latha V Chandu, Senior Consultant, UWAY Health
I had consulted Manu Ghosh (name changed) a few days back, and his case prompted me to write this blog. Manu is 47 and works as a general manager in software delivery at a well-known company in Bangalore. His job is demanding, involving tight deadlines, leading teams, and managing complex projects. Outwardly, he appeared to be a successful, high-functioning professional, but internally, he was fighting a constant battle.
Manu felt completely overwhelmed. The demands of work and home life, with two young children needing his attention, left him feeling like he was barely holding on. Despite putting in extra hours, his performance ratings were slipping. He kept missing deadlines and struggled to stay focused in meetings. His colleagues started viewing him as disorganised and inattentive, even though he was working harder than ever. Stress began to take a toll on his health, and even trying fitness routines didn’t seem to help.
What shocked me was how common ADHD in adults is becoming. At UWAY Health, more and more adults are coming to our consultations with similar complaints. Many of them think it’s just stress or burnout. But for some, like Manu, the issue runs deeper. After a thorough assessment in Bangalore, which involved clinical interviews, behavior analysis, and DSM-5 criteria, Manu was diagnosed with ADHD( Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). This condition, which many believe only affects kids, can impact adults too, especially in today’s high-pressure work environments.
Why ADHD Often Goes Unnoticed in Adults
Most people don’t associate ADHD with adulthood. We’ve been conditioned to think of it as something only kids deal with. But the reality is different. ADHD in adults is real, and in workplaces across India, it’s becoming more noticeable. Studies show that around 2-3% of adults in India have ADHD, but the actual number may be much higher because so many cases go undiagnosed. At work, ADHD symptoms might show up as chronic forgetfulness, inability to focus, or difficulty managing time.
Imagine working in a fast-paced environment where everyone expects you to be efficient and organized. If you’re struggling to keep up, you might blame yourself. That’s what happens to many adults. They feel like they’re just not good enough or not trying hard enough. This stigma makes people hide their struggles instead of seeking help, leading to years of frustration and misunderstanding.
In fact, data suggests that adults with untreated ADHD are more likely to face workplace issues. They’re more prone to job instability, higher stress levels, and even poorer job performance. One report highlighted that up to 40% of adults with ADHD have difficulties in completing projects and meeting deadlines, affecting their career progression and overall well-being.
Ayurveda’s Perspective on ADHD
When Manu came to me for consultation, he was looking for a natural, holistic approach. Ayurveda offers an insightful perspective. According to Ayurveda, ADHD is often linked to an imbalance in the Vata dosha. Vata governs movement and the nervous system, and when it’s out of balance, it can lead to symptoms like restlessness, impulsivity, and trouble focusing. Factors like stress, poor diet, or irregular daily routines can aggravate Vata and make these symptoms worse.
Interestingly, while ADHD is usually present from childhood, symptoms can become more pronounced in adulthood due to life stressors or unhealthy habits. Ayurveda teaches that maintaining balance is key. When Vata is aggravated, it manifests as what we see in people like Manu—difficulty focusing, scattered thoughts, and impulsive decisions.
Recognizing ADHD in Adults
Manu’s story isn’t unique. Many people are dealing with similar challenges, often without realizing it. So how do you recognize ADHD in adults? Here are some simple questions to ask yourself:
- Do you often forget important tasks or appointments, even when you try hard to remember?
- Are you always rushing, feeling like there’s not enough time to get things done?
- Do you feel like your mind is racing, and you struggle to stay focused during meetings or conversations?
These aren’t just quirks. They could be signs of something deeper. At UWAY Health, we’ve noticed that as work pressures grow, especially in cities like Bangalore, more professionals are coming forward to share these struggles. Many of them think it’s just stress or blame themselves for not being productive, but awareness is the first step to healing.
Ayurvedic Remedies and Home Practices
While Manu searched for solutions, we talked about some simple Ayurvedic remedies. Let me share a few, but remember, these are home practices, not a replacement for professional treatment. However, many people have found relief using these natural methods, and recognizing the symptoms early and seeking help is crucial.
1. Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri):
This herb is well-known for boosting brain function and calming the mind. You can mix a quarter teaspoon of Brahmi powder with warm water and drink it in the morning. It’s gentle but effective for mental clarity.
2. Ashwagandha:
A powerful adaptogen, Ashwagandha helps reduce stress and balance the nervous system. Mix half a teaspoon in warm milk and drink it at night. It promotes restful sleep and has a calming effect on the mind.
3. Shankhpushpi:
For those who feel mentally exhausted, Shankhpushpi is beneficial. You can take it in syrup or powder form as it helps improve focus and soothe the nervous system.
4. Diet and Routine:
Eat warm, nourishing foods like soups, whole grains, and cooked vegetables. Avoid cold, raw, or processed foods that can worsen Vata imbalance. Establish a consistent routine – regular meal and sleep times can make a big difference.
5. Yoga and Meditation:
Gentle yoga poses and breathing exercises are fantastic for calming a restless mind. Even simple practices like Child’s Pose (Balasana) or breathing exercises (Pranayama) can bring a sense of balance. Just five minutes of meditation daily can help improve focus and reduce anxiety.
In India’s fast-paced corporate world, ADHD in adults can severely impact work performance. Up to 60% of adults with ADHD report struggling to keep up with work demands, leading to job dissatisfaction and frequent career changes. Recognizing these patterns can help adults find solutions sooner.
Conclusion:
Now, let me share something that might surprise you. At UWAY Health consultations, our doctors are seeing more and more adults showing signs of ADHD. Many call it stress or burnout, but the symptoms are there, and they’re increasing. It’s a growing concern, especially as work pressures continue to rise. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or see yourself in Manu’s story, it’s crucial to seek help. Ayurveda provides a natural way to manage symptoms, but always consult with a doctor for personalized guidance.
You don’t have to struggle in silence. If you think ADHD might be affecting your life, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with our specialists. You deserve to live a balanced, focused, and fulfilling life.
About Author
Dr. Latha
With a stellar career starting at AVP Chiktisalayam, Coimbatore, Dr. Latha brings 23 years of global expertise.
Specializing in chronic health issues, she is a trusted practitioner for conditions like obesity, PCOS, migraines, allergic rhinitis, infertility, Sciatica, and osteoarthritis, particularly among women and children.
