Signs of Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Many people suffering from ADHD do not completely overcome the condition as they grow older. In fact, 30 percent to 70% of kids diagnosed with ADHD continue to show symptoms into adulthood.
However, symptoms may appear different in adults. For example, hyperactivity tends to decrease in adults. Additionally, the signs typically manifest in different areas of adulthood, such as at work or in relationships.
1. Problems with Focusing
Inability to concentrate on a task can result in serious consequences. It can lead to problems at work or at school, and in relationships. In certain cases, it may create depression or anxiety. There are steps you can take to address difficulty focusing.
Stress, illness, and lack sleep can all cause difficulty in focusing. A mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the root of your symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan.
People suffering from ADD/ADHD may have trouble focusing on the task that is in front of them. They can be easily distracted by external stimuli or a daydream without even realizing it. They often miss appointments or misplace keys, eyeglasses, and phones. These issues can impede daily tasks and prevent them from reaching their short- and long-term goals.
Signs of inattention ADHD are having difficulty concentrating in class or in the workplace, ignoring deadlines and failing to finish assignments on time. The majority of people with ADHD have trouble organizing their homework or business records. They have messy homes and often lose their keys or phones.
It is important to talk to a therapist if you are having trouble staying focused. BetterHelp can match you with an accredited, licensed therapist who can help with attention issues as well as other mental health issues. Start your search now! It's free and confidential.
2. Difficulty Staying Organized
Many adults with ADHD struggle to stay on top of their work. This can create issues at home or at work. People who suffer from ADD are usually disorganized and easily distracted. They may also have difficulty following directions or keeping appointments, as well as paying bills. They frequently forget to carry important items like keys, wallet and phone. They also tend to get lost items or forget where they place them.
People with predominately inattentive type ADHD (formerly ADD) lack the hyperactivity component that is common in Predominately Hyperactive-Impulsive Type ADHD and Combined Type ADHD. They may be thought of as people who daydream or are unorganized in the classroom or workplace, and they can struggle to follow instructions. They have difficulty with tasks that require a lot of brain power, and often make mistakes that are not their fault.
Women are more likely to exhibit signs of inattention ADHD than men. They might be better at concealing symptoms or using tools to cope. This makes it more difficult for others to notice the issue. They may feel self-critical and suffer from low self-esteem.
Adults suffering from ADD may benefit from a coach in their daily life, as well as a workplace mentor. A coach can assist in improving the organization skills of people, such as maintaining a daily calendar or prioritizing tasks. A mentor can aid with social skills, like maintaining a calm attitude in stressful situations and dealing with difficult colleagues. Many apps on smartphones can aid people suffering from ADHD manage their calls, emails chores, and other errands.
3. signs and symptoms of adhd in adults in making decisions
Adults who have ADHD frequently experience work or relationship difficulties due to their difficulty following rules, being organized and coordinating their schedules. They may be impulsive in their spending and struggle with managing money. They may also run into health problems like weight issues tension and stress, anxiety or depression, low self-esteem or insomnia.
The symptoms of ADHD in adults can be less obvious than children, and those who were not diagnosed as children may not realize they have symptoms until they are adults. A qualified health care provider or mental health professional can test the person for ADHD by asking questions about their childhood behavior and school experiences. They can also use standardized ADHD symptom checklists or behavioral rating scales to determine if a person has ADHD.
Untreated ADHD can lead to frustration and embarrassment. However, a diagnosis can provide hope and help. With the appropriate treatment and support adults suffering from ADHD are able to overcome their difficulties and lead productive lives. The same impulsivity and disorganization that make it hard to achieve in certain areas can also be sources of incredible enthusiasm, creativity, and out-of-the-box thinking. These qualities can lead you to great achievements when handled properly.
4. Difficulty dealing with Stress
Stressful situations can cause problems in adults with ADHD. Many people suffering from the disorder are unable to focus or stay focused on their tasks when they are overwhelmed by work, school, home life or other responsibilities. This can cause anxiety, which could cause them to focus issues worse.
Talk to your doctor If you're feeling overwhelmed by your work and are often stressed. They will examine your medical history, and any issues you've experienced at work or with relationships. They'll also employ standard behavior rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists to determine your condition. You could also be asked to take psychological tests that assess your executive function, working memory (abilities such as decision-making and planning) and visual and physical abilities.
Children, teens and adults with inattention ADHD are unable to follow through with instructions like doing chores or homework or completing tasks at work, such as writing a paper or sending an email. They might also forget to remember appointments or become distracted while trying to focus.
Attention-deficit ADHD symptoms appear different in adults than in children, and a lot of people don't receive an diagnosis until they're older. Adults who aren't diagnosed with ADHD throughout their lives may think that their symptoms are due to depression or anxiety. You may want to talk to your doctor about taking part in a clinical trial to learn more about the latest treatments for ADHD.
5. Problems Making Choices in the Workplace
Indecision is a complex and widespread issue that can have a variety of effects on the career of a person. This issue, which stems from many psychological reasons, including fears of making a bad decision and a struggle to maintain self-confidence, can strain productivity in the workplace and cause conflicts in the work environment for colleagues. Whether it's a fleeting moment of uncertainty or a long-lasting struggle with indecisiveness, understanding it is essential to the success of a person and their professional career.
Indecisiveness can manifest in different ways depending on the individual's symptoms and needs. For instance an adult who is not diagnosed suffers from inattention ADHD may have trouble organizing, adhering to a plan and keeping an eye on work-related and personal things like appointments documents, appointments, and telephone numbers. They may also have financial issues, such as forgetting bills or spending more than they're able to afford.
Indecisiveness is a result of a variety of factors, from adult responsibilities to childhood stressors and experiences. Concentrating on the positives, considering the possibilities and gaining confidence in yourself can help you overcome it. If this approach doesn't work, you can seek advice from trusted colleagues or mentors to gain valuable insight and increase your confidence. If these strategies don't work, a medical professional will be able to diagnose ADHD and recommend additional treatment strategies.
6. Trouble with dealing with emotions

Often, adults who have ADHD can experience difficulty with emotional regulation. This can cause mood swings, impulsive behavior as well as issues with work and relationships. Issues with emotional regulation can cause frustration, low-self-esteem and a lower quality of life.
People who suffer from the inattentional form of ADHD typically have trouble coping with emotions. This type of ADHD affects people of all ages. It can cause problems like forgetfulness, organization and inability to stay focused and memory issues.
Inattentional ADHD can cause trouble keeping track of schoolwork, assignments and appointments. It can also lead to frequent misplacing of items such as glasses, keys and cell phones.
Hyperactive/impulsive ADHD can occur in children, teens and adults. It causes restlessness and a tendency to fidget, tap or talking a lot even in situations when it isn't appropriate. It can also cause trouble making decisions and disrupting others.
People who have trouble regulating their emotions are at risk for poor physical health. This includes tension in muscles, headaches and heart disease. They might be afflicted by strained or negative relationships at work, and a poor quality of life. You can manage your feelings if you're having difficulty regulating your emotions at work by putting some distance between you and the source of your emotional stimulation. You can also try reframe your reaction by examining the situation from an entirely different perspective or by seeking ways to divert your focus.