Adult ADHD Signs and Symptoms
Do you find yourself forgetting things at work, struggle to complete tasks or miss appointments? You may be suffering from adult ADHD symptoms.
These issues can impact your relationships, work and at home. Your doctor will request information from your family, school and use checklists as well as rating systems to assess your symptoms.
1. Inattentiveness
People who have inattention ADHD symptoms struggle to follow instructions and concentrate on tasks. They might forget important documents or fail to attend appointments. They tend to forget important information and make careless errors that can be costly at work or in school. These errors may seem minor when children however they can be more serious as they grow older.
Children and adults with inattention-deficient behaviors are prone to fall through the cracks. While hyperactivity and impulse-driven ADHD symptoms are more apparent (they run around, fidget, or interrupt others) However, those who exhibit inattention-related behavior are easily not noticed. They may be unproductive at the classroom or at work, have difficulty being organized, and appear lazy and unmotivated to their parents or teachers. They might daydream or draw in classes. They might have difficulty focusing on sports or leisure activities and are "on the move."
Women may show different symptoms of inattention ADD than men, making it harder to identify. Women are better at disguising their symptoms and may depend on devices to help stay focused and organized. Women are also less likely to admit that they have difficulty staying focused. This can hinder them from receiving the care they require.
If your inattentive ADHD symptoms interfere with your school, work or relationships, it's recommended to discuss them with your doctor. They might recommend counseling that helps you understand your problems and find ways to deal with them, and medication. It is also possible to request accommodations at work or school. If your supervisors, coworkers or teachers are understanding and accommodating it could make a huge difference in your performance at work or in school.
2. Hyperactivity
Everyone misplaces their car keys or cellphone from time to the time. People with inattention ADHD are more likely to do this frequently and it can affect their everyday functioning. They may also have difficulty finishing their schoolwork and other work tasks. They might forget important deadlines and events, and struggle to keep up with conversations and activities.
Although those with ADHD are more likely to have difficulty in certain professional or academic environments than others, their intelligence and education is usually higher than the average. They often have problems with mood fluctuation, low self-esteem anxiety and depression, eating disorders relationships, substance misuse and risky behaviors.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must be present for a minimum of 6 months and not be appropriate for the person's development level. They must also be more severe than other mental health issues and physical ailments that can cause similar symptoms. The health care professional will assess the person's mood, their history and current symptoms. The doctor will typically utilize standardized ADHD symptom checklists and questionnaires with ratings scales to determine if the person meets the criteria for an assessment 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, act like they're "driven" by a motor and are unable to wait for their turn. (For example, they finish other peoples' sentences, or can't wait until their turn to speak; or adolescents and adults may begin 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 suffer from ADHD you may be having trouble controlling your emotions and making smart decisions. This can lead to difficulties at work or in school. It can also affect your relationships as well as your health. For instance, you could be unable to stop yourself from interrupting others or yelling at people when you're angry. adult adhd symptoms to seek assistance in the event of an impulsive act that causes problems for you or anyone else.
ADHD symptoms can manifest in childhood but continue into adulthood. The criteria for diagnosis is based on the age of the person: Children up to age 16 must display at least six symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity in order to be diagnosed with ADHD.
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 due the fact that the inattentive symptoms do not disappear with age however the hyperactive and impulse symptoms do.
Many people with impulsive behaviors may benefit from therapy as well as other strategies. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy can help you learn how your thoughts and emotions influence your behavior. It can also teach techniques to manage anxiety and stress which can result in impulsive behavior. Calm's free tools like this Guide to Overcoming Yourself-Criticism, can help you replace negative self talk with positive messages which promote self-compassion.
If you suffer from ADHD symptoms and haven't received a diagnosis as a child, ask your doctor for an assessment. Your GP will be able to refer you to services that are suited to your needs. This could include a Community Mental Health Service, or a Neurodevelopmental Service. A mental health specialist or health care professional can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of symptoms, diagnose them and recommend the most effective treatment options. Your provider will examine your health history, mood and any other medical conditions you may be suffering from.
4. Anxiety
People suffering from ADHD aren't able to identify their feelings, particularly anxiety. This could result in feelings of numbness or being overly critical of themselves. It may cause self-medicating through drugs or alcohol, which can worsen the symptoms of ADHD. A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a source for relief and hope if these issues persist. It will also allow people realize that their difficulties aren't their fault.
Anxiety disorders affect between 25 and 40% of adults suffering from ADHD. Anxiety and ADHD share many symptoms, such as problems with concentration, restlessness and difficult to meet deadlines. However, the primary difference is that worry typically has a specific focus. It is more unpredictable and loose-floating. It can be difficult to differentiate between depression and anxiety which can cause similar symptoms.
When anxiety and ADHD are mixed, it is referred to as "anxious ADD", or "ADHD w/anxiety." Anxiety symptoms may interfere with daily activities, relationships, work, and school. A doctor might suggest a treatment program which includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as meditation and medication. Stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine can be utilized, as well as nonstimulant medication like the antidepressant atomoxetine or bupropion.
A primary care physician could be able to offer an initial evaluation of ADHD. If your doctor suspects you have it, he will refer you to an expert in mental health, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will ask you about your family history and other factors that could be contributing to your ADHD. They will also ask about your symptoms, and how they affect your school, work and at home.
5. Boredom
It is important to remember that boredom is not only a sign of ADHD. It can be experienced by those who do not suffer from ADHD. Boredom is a feeling which could be caused by the brain's desire for a break or lack of stimulation. Some personality traits, such as extraversion and aversion to sensations, could cause feelings of boredom. Boredom is a normal issue that can be controlled with a variety of methods.
While boredom may lead to a lack of motivation, it can also be followed by feelings such as satisfaction and happiness. Many therapists believe that learning how to deal with boredom can promote emotional wellbeing and provide opportunities for creativity.
It's important to understand that boredom and stress can be related regardless of whether or not a person has ADHD. Stress can worsen symptoms, and can hinder functioning at workplace, at home or school, or other social activity. If someone is bored often it's time to see a doctor.
Other disorders, including anxiety and depression, can also trigger similar symptoms. It is crucial that people disclose any medications they are taking, especially if they are attempting to treat other illnesses by using stimulants.
You or someone you love may be suffering from ADHD when they are angry, impulsive or easily distracted. Women who have ADHD are more likely to be undiagnosed or miss-diagnosed than men because their symptoms differ from typical signs of impulsivity and hyperactivity. They may also experience chronic lateness and have a hard to keep track of their finances or scheduling appointments.