Adult ADHD Signs and Symptoms
Do you get distracted at work, struggle to complete tasks or forget appointments? You may be suffering from adult ADHD symptoms.
These problems can affect your work, home and family relationships. Your doctor will collect information from your family and school use checklists and rating scales to evaluate your symptoms.
1. Inattentiveness
Inattention ADHD patients have trouble focus on tasks and following instructions. They may miss appointments or misplace important papers. They tend to forget important information and commit mistakes that can cost a lot of money at work or in school. These mistakes may be minor in the early years, but they become more costly as adults.
While those with hyperactivity or impulsive ADHD are more obvious (they often flit around, cannot stay seated easily, fidget or interrupt others) youngsters and adults with inattentive symptoms can easily slip under the radar. They might be unable to perform well in the classroom or at work, have trouble being organized, and appear inactive and unmotivated to their parents or teachers. They might ponder or draw in classes. They might be unable to pay attention to sports or leisure activities and are always "on the go."
Women may show different symptoms of inattention ADD than men, which makes it harder to identify. Women are better at disguising their symptoms and may depend on tools to help remain focused and organized. They also tend to be more hesitant to admit they have problems staying on task, so they might be unable to access the help they require.
It is worth telling your doctor if your inattentive ADHD affects your school, work or relationships. They might suggest counseling that helps you understand your issues and figure out ways to manage them and also medication. It is also possible to request accommodations at work or school. If your coworkers, supervisors or teachers are accommodating and understanding it could make a big difference to your success at school or at work.
2. Hyperactivity
Everyone loses their car keys or a cell phone from time to moment. Inattentive ADHD people, on the other hand, do this regularly, and this can have a negative effect on their daily functioning. They may also have difficulties following through on their work or school assignments or forget important dates and deadlines, and struggle with keeping up with conversations and activities.
While people who suffer from ADHD might be more likely to experience difficulties in certain academic or professional environments but their overall intelligence and education are generally higher than the average. They are frequently affected by mood swings low confidence depression, anxiety, eating disorders and problems with relationships.
For a diagnosis of ADHD, the symptoms must be present for at least six months and be inappropriate for the person's developmental level. The symptoms must be more severe than those triggered by other physical or mental disorders. The health care provider will evaluate the person's mood, history and current symptoms. They will employ typical ADHD symptoms checklists, questionnaires and rating scales to determine if the individual meets the criteria 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 moving and act as if they're "driven" by a motor and are unable to wait for their turn. (For instance they may finish other people's' sentences, or can't wait until it's their turn to speak; and adolescents and adults might start using other peoples' things 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 might be having trouble controlling your emotions or making sound decisions. This can cause issues with school or work. This could also impact your relationships and health. It may be difficult to resist interrupting other people or yelling when you're angry. It is important to seek help for the impulsive behavior that can cause problems for you or others.
The signs of ADHD start in childhood, but they can continue throughout teen years and into adulthood. The criteria for a diagnosis is based on the age of the person: Children up to age 16 must have at least six signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity 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 to the fact that the inattentive symptoms do not disappear with age, but the hyperactive and impulse symptoms do.
Therapy and other strategies can assist many people suffering from impulsive behavior. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy can help you learn how your thoughts and emotions influence your behavior. It can also teach strategies to manage anxiety and stress, which often result in an impulsive behavior. The Calm's free resources, such as this Guide to Overcoming Self-Criticism can help you replace negative self-talk with positive messages that promote self-compassion, confidence and self-esteem.
Ask your doctor to examine you if you have ADHD symptoms but were not diagnosed as a child. Your GP can recommend the most appropriate services that meet your needs, including a Community Mental Health Service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service. A thorough evaluation by a health care provider or mental health professional can determine the root of your symptoms, establish an accurate diagnosis and suggest treatments. Your doctor will examine your mood and any other health issues you suffer from and your family history.
4. Anxiety
People suffering from ADHD are unable to recognize their feelings, and especially anxiety. This may result in a lack of empathy or being too critical of themselves. Self-medicating may exacerbate ADHD symptoms. A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a source of relief and hope in the event that these issues persist. It can also help people realize that their difficulties aren't their fault.
Anxiety disorders affect between 25 and 40% of adults suffering from ADHD. Anxiety and ADHD have many symptoms, such as problems with concentration, restlessness, and difficult to meet deadlines. However, the main difference is that anxiety typically has a target. Anxiety is unpredictable and more free-floating. It is also difficult to distinguish between depression and anxiety, which can cause similar symptoms.
When anxiety and ADHD are mixed, it is referred to as "anxious ADD", or "ADHD with anxiety." Anxiety-related symptoms can hinder daily activities, relationships, work, and school. A doctor could recommend a treatment plan that includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as meditation, and medications. Stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine may be used, as well as nonstimulant medication like bupropion or atomoxetine, which is an antidepressant.
A primary care physician may be able to provide a preliminary evaluation of ADHD. If your doctor suspects that you are suffering from ADHD, they will recommend you to an expert in mental health, such as psychiatrist or psychologist. These professionals will inquire about your family history, as well as other factors which may contribute to ADHD. They will also ask about your symptoms, including how they affect your school, work and home.
5. Boredom
It is important to remember that boredom isn't only an indication of ADHD. It can be experienced by those who do not have ADHD. Boredom is an everyday human emotion and could be due to the brain's need to be away from a task or lack of mental stimulation. In addition, some personality traits like extraversion and sensation seeking can cause feelings of boredom. Boredom is a common problem that can be addressed by a variety methods.
While boredom may lead to a lack of motivation but it can also be associated with feelings like satisfaction and well-being. Many therapists believe that learning to cope with boredom can boost your mood and encourage creativity.
It's important to understand that stress and boredom can be connected, whether or not someone is suffering from ADHD. Stress can exacerbate symptoms and hinder functioning at workplace, at home or at school, or in any other social activity. If symptoms of add in adults is bored frequently, it might be time to consult a doctor for a check-up.
It's also important to note that there are other disorders that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD like anxiety and depression. It is essential for people to disclose any medications they are taking, particularly when they're trying to treat other illnesses with stimulants.
If you or someone you know struggles with staying on task and seems impulsive, irritable or easily distracted, they could be suffering from ADHD. Women with ADHD are more likely to go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed than men, since their symptoms are different from the typical symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. They may also have trouble with chronic tardiness, and finding it difficult to track financial obligations or scheduling appointments.