Adult ADHD Signs and Symptoms
Do you find yourself forgetting things at work, struggle to complete tasks or forget appointments? If so, you could have symptoms of adult ADHD.
These problems can affect your relationships, work and home. Your doctor will gather information from your family and school use checklists and rating scales to evaluate your symptoms.
1. Inattentiveness
Inattentive ADHD patients have difficulty focusing on tasks and following instructions. They might forget important documents or fail to attend appointments. They often forget important details and commit mistakes that can be costly at work or in school. These mistakes might be small in the beginning, but they become more costly as adults.
While those with hyperactivity or impulsive ADHD are easier to spot (they often flit around, aren't able to sit easily, fidget or interrupt others), children and adults with inattentive symptoms are often able to slip under the radar. They may have difficulty staying organised and appear uninterested or unmotivated to parents or teachers. They might ponder or draw during classes. They may have trouble paying attention to leisure or sports activities, and are constantly "on the go."
Women may show different symptoms of inattentive ADD than men, making it more difficult to diagnose. Women are more adept at hiding their symptoms and may rely on tools to help them remain focused and organized. Women are also less likely to admit they struggle to stay on task. This can prevent them from getting the treatment they need.
If your inattentive ADHD symptoms affect your work, school or relationships, it is recommended to discuss them with your doctor. They might suggest counseling to assist you in understanding your issues and find ways to manage them, along with medication. You can also ask for accommodations at work or at school. If your co-workers, supervisors or teachers are understanding and accommodating it could make a huge difference in your performance at work or in school.
2. Hyperactivity
Everybody loses their keys to the car or phone from time to time. Inattentive ADHD people however often do this, and this can have a negative impact on their daily functioning. They might also have trouble following through on their work or school projects, forget about important events and deadlines, and have difficulty keeping up with conversations and activities.
While those with ADHD may be more likely to struggle in particular professional or academic environments however, their overall intelligence and education levels are typically higher than average. They typically have issues with mood swings, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety, eating disorders relationships, substance misuse and risky behaviors.
The symptoms must be present at least six months and not be consistent with the person's level of development. They also must be more severe than other mental health issues and physical illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. The health care professional will evaluate the person's mood and history, as well as and present symptoms. He or she will use the standard ADHD symptom checklists, questionnaires and rating scales in order to determine if the individual has the characteristics of this condition.
Many people with inattentive ADHD also have hyperactivity-impulsivity, which makes it difficult to sit still and play or do leisure activities quietly. They are always on the move and appear to be "driven" by motors and have trouble waiting for their turn. (For instance, they finish other peoples' sentences, or can't wait until it's their turn to speak; adolescents and adults may start using other people's items without permission). People with hyperactivity-impulsivity often fidget, squirm or leave their seat even when it's appropriate.
3. Impulsivity
If you have ADHD, you might be having trouble controlling your emotions or making good decisions. This can lead to problems at work or in school. It can also affect your relationships and health. For example, you might find it hard to stop yourself from interrupting people or yelling at people when you're angry. It is important to seek help for any impulsive behavior that can cause problems for you or anyone else.
ADHD symptoms can manifest in childhood but continue into adulthood. The age of the person determines the criteria for an assessment. Children younger than 16 years old must show at least six signs such as hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsiveness.
Men and boys are more likely to have inattentive type ADHD, while girls and adults are more likely to have hyperactive-impulsive ADHD. Some experts believe that this is because the symptoms of inattention aren't always gone as you grow older, while the hyperactive and impulsive symptoms do diminish.
Therapy and other strategies can aid many people suffering from an impulsive behavior. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy can help you understand how your thoughts and emotions affect your behavior. It can also teach you techniques to manage stress and anxiety, which often trigger an impulsive behavior. The Calm's free resources, such as this guide to overcome self-criticism can assist you in replacing negative self-talk with positive ones that promote self-compassion, confidence and self-esteem.
Ask your doctor to examine you if you have ADHD symptoms, but you were not diagnosed as an infant. Your GP can refer you to the best services for your needs, such as a Community Mental Health Service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service. A mental health professional or health care provider can conduct a thorough examination to determine the root cause of your symptoms, identify them and recommend the most effective treatment options. Your physician will evaluate your mood, your medical history and any other medical conditions you may be suffering from.
4. symptoms of adhd in adults suffering from ADHD frequently have difficulty being able to recognize their own feelings, especially anxiety. This could result in feelings of numbness or being too critical of themselves. It could also lead to self-medicating with drugs or alcohol which can exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD. If symptoms of add in adults persist, a diagnosis of adult ADHD is a source of relief and hope. It will also allow them to realize that the issues they face are not the result of their own insanity.
Approximately 25 to 40 percent of adults suffering from ADHD have an anxiety disorder. Anxiety and ADHD have a number of symptoms, such as problems with concentration, restlessness and difficulty meeting deadlines. However, the main difference is that anxiety typically has a specific focus. It is more unpredictable and floating. It can be difficult to distinguish between depression and anxiety that can result in similar symptoms.
When anxiety and ADHD are combined, it is called "anxious ADD", or "ADHD w/anxiety." Anxiety-related symptoms can affect relationships, jobs school, and other daily activities. A doctor will recommend a treatment plan, which may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) mindfulness meditation, and medication. Stimulants such as methylphenidate or amphetamine, along with non-stimulant medication like the antidepressant bupropion or atomoxetine could be used.
A primary care doctor might be able to give an initial assessment of ADHD. If your doctor suspects you suffer from ADHD, they will refer you to a specialist in mental health, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will inquire about your family history, and other factors which may be contributing to ADHD. They'll also inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your work, school, and home life.
5. Boredom
It is important to realize that boredom is not only a sign of ADHD. The feeling of boredom can be experienced by those who don't have ADHD. Boredom is an everyday human emotion and can happen due to the brain needing a break from a particular activity or a lack of stimulation. Additionally, certain personality traits like extraversion and feeling seeking may cause feelings of boredom. Ultimately, boredom is a common symptom that can be managed in various ways.
While boredom can lead to an absence of motivation however, it is often followed by feelings of satisfaction and well-being. In the end, many therapists believe that learning how to manage boredom in a healthy manner can promote emotional well-being and allow for creative opportunities.
It is important to recognize that stress and boredom can be related regardless of whether or not a person has ADHD. Stress can worsen symptoms and hinder functioning in the home, at work, school, or any other social event. If a person is frequently bored, it may be time to consult a doctor.
It's also important to know that there are other disorders that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD like depression and anxiety. It is important that people disclose any medications, especially when stimulants are used to treat other conditions.
You or someone you know may be suffering from ADHD when they are angry, impulsive or easily distracted. Women who suffer from ADHD are more likely than men to be misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all, since their symptoms are different from hyperactivity and impulsivity. They might also struggle with chronic lateness and have a difficult to keep track of their finances or scheduling appointments.