ADHD Symptoms
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the
Despite its prevalence, ADHD often goes unrecognized, especially in adults. This leads to challenges in various aspects of life, from work to personal relationships. Read on to explore common symptoms of ADHD as well as uncommon ones and gain valuable insights into this widely experienced yet frequently misunderstood condition.
Do I Have ADD or ADHD?
- Predominantly inattentive. It is similar to the old definition (ADD), focusing on attention difficulties without significant hyperactivity. It is the
most prevalent type of ADHD [3*] . - Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive. Characterized by hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
- Combined ADHD. A combination of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
- Inattention to detail
- Difficulty sustaining attention
- Decreased reaction when spoken to directly
- Inability to follow instructions
- Difficulty organizing tasks; poor time management
- Lack of interest in mentally demanding tasks
- Losing necessary things frequently
- Being easily distracted
- Increased forgetfulness
- Fidgeting
- Often leaving a seat unexpectedly
- Restlessness
- Inability to engage in activities quietly
- Often being “on the go”
- Talking excessively
- Blurting out answers before questions end
- Difficulty waiting their turn
- Often interrupting or intruding on others
Based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition.
What Does ADHD Feel Like?
- Busy brain. It may feel like your mind is juggling multiple thoughts at once, making it hard to focus
- Intense focus at times. You might find yourself hyper-focused on something you find interesting, losing track of time.
- Quick decisions. You might act on impulse, making decisions without much thought.
- Restlessness. It manifests as a constant need to move or fidget, like tapping your foot or playing with objects.
- Strong emotions. Emotions can hit harder and be tougher to manage, whether it’s excitement, frustration, or disappointment.
- Struggling with routine. Everyday tasks, especially repetitive or boring ones, can be a challenge, often leading to procrastination.
- Issues in social interactions. ADHD can make social situations harder, like accidentally interrupting someone or missing social cues.
- Time management problems. You might often find yourself underestimating the needed time.
10 Common Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
Short Attention Span
People with ADHD often find it challenging to maintain attention on one task. They have an urge to switch from one activity to another, usually not completing any of them. With time, it may significantly affect their work and daily functioning because of:
- Higher distractibility. Minor distractions can significantly disrupt focus.
- Procrastination. Involves putting off tasks, especially those perceived as mundane or challenging.
- Incomplete projects. Starting various tasks but struggling to see them through to completion.
- Overlooking details. Missing crucial information in conversations or written instructions.
In the long run, this may result in workplace challenges, such as issues in maintaining consistent performance.
Impulsive Behavior
Impulsive behavior in adults with ADHD can affect financial stability, relationships, and life planning. A person may act without full consideration of consequences. The signs representing it include:
- Limited self-control. This might lead to verbal outbursts or difficulty in controlling emotions.
- Impulsive decisions. This includes making quick decisions without weighing the pros and cons.
- Irritability. Adults with impulsive tendencies may react angrily to situations without much provocation.
- Susceptibility to addictions. Adults with impulsive traits might be drawn to activities like gambling, driven by the thrill and adrenaline, which can lead to addiction.
- Risk of self-harm. In some cases, impulsivity can lead to dangerous behaviors, including self-harm.
If you have an urge for self-harm of any kind, contact your healthcare provider or a Crisis Hotline at 988.
Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is commonly associated with ADHD in children but adults with this condition may experience it too. The key signs that may indicate it are the following:
- Constantly feeling the need to be active.
- Interrupting or intruding on others.
- Exhibiting excessive energy.
- Struggling to engage in quiet activities.
- Impatience and difficulty waiting for turns.
If not managed, hyperactivity in adults can lead to challenges in maintaining stable relationships due to excessive energy or impulsiveness. It may also increase the risk of substance abuse as an attempt to cope with symptoms.
Risky Behavior
A lack of fear in dangerous situations or engaging in risky behaviors are common signs of ADHD. People with these symptoms often have impulsive tendencies and may not fully recognize the risks associated with their actions. The effects of such behavior can result in:
- Recklessness. Engaging in dangerous activities without recognizing the potential consequences.
- Rigid reactions. Inflexible responses to changing situations.
- Workplace issues. Impulsive decisions or interruptions during meetings.
- Substance abuse. Adults with ADHD might use substances as a coping mechanism for frustrations.
- Legal troubles. A tendency to act out can lead to problems with law enforcement.
Self-centered Behavior
Self-centered behavior in adults with ADHD is marked by a lack of empathy and an overemphasis on personal issues. It can lead to:
- Isolation. A self-centered person may be inattentive to the basic needs of other people and have difficulty creating strong bonds.
- Chronic dissatisfaction. Self-centered behaviors may lead to unrealistic expectations of oneself, constant competition, and lower adaptability.
- Hindered personal development. Focusing solely on oneself can impede growth and result in a narrow worldview.
Note that being self-centered does not necessarily equate to having ADHD. It’s important to take all signs into account.
Fidgeting
Fidgeting can signify nervousness and boredom but it can also be one of the typical symptoms of ADHD if experienced frequently. The signs include:
- Tapping fingers or feet
- Clicking or snapping with fingers
- Bouncing leg
- Playing with hair
- Playing with objects
- Walking back and forth
- Doodling
Controlling fidgeting as an ADHD symptom can be challenging; it is typically repetitive and ongoing. If not managed, it may affect social perception and interpersonal relationships and increase nervousness.
Making Careless Mistakes
Poor Time Management
Frequent tardiness, such as rescheduling meetings last minute, could be a sign of ADHD in adults. This condition often leads to challenges in accurately perceiving time, resulting in procrastination and missed deadlines. If this symptom is severe, consistent lateness can affect interpersonal relationships. At work, it can lead to decreased productivity and missed opportunities.
In addition to ADHD medication and talk therapy, self-help tips can be helpful. These include to-do lists, reminders, focused work methods like the Pomodoro, and more.
Poor Organization Skills
Forgetfulness
Studies show that ADHD may cause
- You are too young to be forgetting simple stuff.
- No other illnesses can cause memory loss.
- You are forgetting daily tasks frequently and abandoning assigned projects.
- You feel that forgetfulness brings distress.
A healthcare provider can help identify if memory problems are linked to ADHD or have another cause. In addition to treatment, you can consult about self-help tips, such as reminders, calendars, and memory exercises.
When to Seek Professional Help for Adult ADHD
If you suspect you might have ADHD, it is important to reach out for professional assistance. Here are some signs that indicate it is time to seek help:
- Daily challenges. You are constantly struggling with focus, organization, or impulsive behaviors in everyday life.
- Relationship issues. Your symptoms are causing noticeable problems in your personal relationships.
- Work struggles. ADHD symptoms are negatively impacting your performance at work or in educational settings.
- Emotional stress. You feel overwhelmed or anxious frequently, and it seems connected to ADHD symptoms.
- Self-medicating. You find yourself using substances like alcohol to cope with your symptoms.
Testing for Adult ADHD
Discuss your symptoms and medical history.
Understanding your symptoms is the key to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Recognizing issues with focus, organization, impulsivity, or emotional regulation is an important first step.
At MEDvidi, we have healthcare providers specializing in diagnosing and treating adult ADHD. We offer personalized care, guiding you every step of the way. If you are seeking support, we’re here to help.
- Easy scheduling: Schedule a visit from your couch, any time, no waiting in line!
- Comprehensive visit management: Reschedule or cancel your appointment in a few clicks.
- Plan in advance: No forgetting to schedule that follow-up next month!
- Track your prescription online: Check your prescription status anytime and know when the medication is ready to pick up.
- Switch pharmacies: Your chosen pharmacy doesn't have your medication? Select another one in a minute.
- Save personal details: No need to repeatedly fill out personal and medical information. Just choose a date and time to book a visit.
There is some
ADHD can lead to physical symptoms such as restlessness, fidgeting, and increased fatigue. Some individuals might also experience headaches or stomachaches due to stress related to ADHD symptoms or side effects of ADHD medications.
Learn more about ADHD
Sources
- Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Source link - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Source link - Prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: Umbrella review of evidence generated across the globe
Source link - Adult ADHD and working memory: Neural evidence of impaired encoding
Source link - Long-Term Memory Performance in Adult ADHD: A Meta-Analysis
Source link - Women Often Diagnosed with ADHD Later In Life
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