Adult ADHD Signs and Symptoms
You could be suffering from adult ADHD if you are constantly not paying attention at work or struggling to complete tasks. If yes, you might be suffering from adult ADHD.
These issues can affect your home, work and family relationships. Your doctor will request information from your family members, school and use checklists and rating systems to review your symptoms.
1. Inattentiveness
People who have inattention ADHD symptoms struggle to follow instructions and concentrate on tasks. They may forget important papers or skip appointments. They often forget important details and make careless errors that can cost a lot of money at work or in school. These errors may appear to be minor when they are children but they can turn more serious when they reach adulthood.
While those who suffer from hyperactivity or impulsive ADHD are easier to spot (they frequently run around, aren't able to sit easily, or fidget or interrupt others) youngsters and adults with symptoms of inattention can easily slip under the radar. They might be unable to perform well in school or at work, struggle with being organized, and appear lazy and unmotivated to their parents or teachers. They may ponder or draw during classes. They might struggle to focus on leisure or sports and are "on the moving."
Inattention ADD symptoms may manifest differently in women than in men, making it challenging for them to get an accurate diagnosis. Women are better at disguising their symptoms and may rely on devices to help stay focused and organized. Women are also more reluctant to admit they have difficulty staying focused. This could prevent them from receiving the care they require.
If your inattention ADHD symptoms affect your work, school or relationships, it's recommended to discuss them with a doctor. They may recommend counseling to aid you in understanding your problems and discover ways to address them, as well as medication. It is also possible to ask for accommodations at work or school. It can make a big difference in your performance at the classroom or at work when your supervisors or coworkers are understanding and accommodating.
2. Hyperactivity
Everyone misplaces their car keys or a cell phone from time to the time. People who aren't attentive ADHD people however frequently do this and it can have a negative effect on their daily functioning. adhd symptoms in adults may also have difficulties finishing their schoolwork and other work tasks. They might forget important events and deadlines and struggle to keep up with conversations and activities.
While people who suffer from ADHD may be more likely to experience difficulties in particular professional or academic situations however, their overall intelligence and education are typically higher than average. They often have problems with mood fluctuation, low self-esteem anxiety and depression, eating disorders and relationship issues, as well as alcohol abuse and risky behavior.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must be present for at least six months and be inappropriate 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 examine the person's mood and history, as well as and present symptoms. They will typically employ standard ADHD symptoms checklists and questionnaires with ratings scales to determine if the person is in the right place for an assessment of this disorder.
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 constantly on the go, act like they're "driven by a motor" and are unable to wait their turn (e.g. finish other people's sentences or can't wait to start speaking in a conversation; adolescents and adults may begin using other people's things 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 sound decisions. This can lead to difficulties at work or in school. This could also impact your relationships and health. For instance, you may be unable to stop yourself from interrupting people or yelling at people when you're angry. It's crucial to seek assistance in the event of an impulsive act that causes problems for you or others.
ADHD symptoms can begin in childhood, but they can persist throughout adulthood. The age of the person determines the criteria for the diagnosis. Children who are less than 16 years old of age must exhibit at least six symptoms that include hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.
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 this is due to the fact that inattentive symptoms do not disappear with age, but the hyperactive and impulse symptoms do.
Therapy and other strategies can help many people with the disorder of impulsive behavior. Cognitive therapy for behavioral issues, for instance can help you understand how your thoughts and feelings influence your behavior. It can also teach you ways to manage stress and anxiety which are often the triggers for impulsive behaviors. The free resources offered by Calm, such as this guide to overcome self-criticism, can also help you replace negative self-talk with positive ones that promote self-compassion, confidence and self-esteem.
If you are suffering from ADHD symptoms but haven't been diagnosed as a child, ask your doctor to conduct an evaluation. Your GP can recommend services that are most appropriate to your needs. This could be a Community Mental Health Service, or a Neurodevelopmental Service. A mental health specialist or health care professional can conduct a thorough examination to determine the root cause of symptoms, determine the root cause and identify the most effective treatment options. Your physician will assess your mood as well as any other health conditions you suffer from and your family history.
4. Anxiety
People suffering from ADHD aren't able to identify their feelings, and especially anxiety. This can result in an absence of empathy or an overly critical self-perception. Self-medicating may exacerbate ADHD symptoms. If these problems persist, an assessment of adult ADHD can bring relief and hope. This will also help people realize that their difficulties aren't their own fault.
Anxiety disorders affect between 25 and 40% of adults suffering from ADHD. Anxiety and ADHD have a number of symptoms, such as problems with concentration, restlessness, and difficulties in meeting deadlines. The main difference between ADHD and anxiety is that worry usually has a target. Anxiety however, is more free-floating and unpredictable. It is also difficult to differentiate between depression and anxiety which can have similar symptoms.
When anxiety and ADHD are mixed, it is referred to as "anxious ADD", or "ADHD with anxiety." Anxiety-related symptoms can hinder everyday activities, relationships, work, and school. A doctor might suggest a treatment program that includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as meditation and medications. Stimulants such as methylphenidate or amphetamine, as well nonstimulant medications such as the antidepressant bupropion or atomoxetine could be used.
A primary care provider will conduct a preliminary evaluation for ADHD. If your doctor suspects that you have it, he will refer you to an expert in mental health, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. These professionals will ask about your family history, and other factors that may be contributing to ADHD. They'll also ask you about your symptoms and how they affect your school, work and family life.
5. Boredom
It is important to note that boredom is not only a sign of ADHD. This feeling can be experienced by people who do not have ADHD. Boredom is a normal human emotion and can be caused by the brain needing a break from a particular activity or a lack of mental stimulation. In addition, some personality traits like extraversion and sensation seeking can contribute to feelings of boredom. Ultimately, boredom is a common condition that can be treated in many ways.
While boredom can lead to a loss of motivation however, it is often followed by feelings of satisfaction and a sense of well-being. In the end, many therapists believe that learning how to cope with boredom in a healthy and positive manner can improve emotional well-being and allow for creative opportunities.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD is important to understand that boredom can be associated with stress, which can worsen symptoms and cause problems at work, home at school, or in other social activities. If someone is bored often it's time to see a doctor.
Other disorders, such as anxiety and depression, can also trigger similar symptoms. It is essential to disclose any medications, especially if stimulants are being used to treat other conditions.
If you or someone you know struggles staying focused and appears to be irritable, impulsive or easily distracted, they may be suffering from ADHD. Women with ADHD are more likely than men to be misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all, as their symptoms differ from hyperactivity and impulsivity. They may also have trouble with chronic tardiness and having trouble keeping track of the budget or scheduling appointments.