Adult ADHD Signs and Symptoms
You could be suffering from adult ADHD if you find yourself constantly missing work-related tasks or struggling to finish tasks. If so, you may have signs of adult ADHD.
These issues can impact your work, home and family relationships. Your doctor will seek information from your family, school and use checklists as well as rating systems to evaluate your symptoms.
1. Inattentiveness
People who are inattentional ADHD symptoms have trouble following instructions and focus on tasks. They might be late for appointments or lose important papers. They tend to forget important information and commit mistakes that can cost a lot of money at work or at school. These mistakes might appear minor in the early years of childhood however they can be more serious in adulthood.
Adults and children with inattentive behaviors can easily get lost in the shuffle. While hyperactivity and impulsive ADHD symptoms are more apparent (they are prone to flitter, run around, or interrupt others), those with inattention-related behavior are easily overlooked. They may have difficulty staying organised and appear uninterested or not motivated to their teachers or parents. They may ponder or draw in class. They might have difficulty paying attention to leisure or sports activities, and are constantly "on the go."
Inattention ADD symptoms may manifest differently in women than in men, making it difficult for them to receive an accurate diagnosis. Women are better at concealing their symptoms and may rely on devices to help remain focused and organized. They also tend to be more hesitant to admit that they struggle to stay on track which means they may not receive the help they require.
If your inattentive ADHD symptoms affect your work, school or relationships, it is worth mentioning them to a doctor. They may suggest counseling to assist you in understanding your issues and figure out ways to manage them, as well as medication. You can also ask for accommodations in the workplace or at school. It can make a huge difference to your success in your work or school if your co-workers or supervisors are accommodating and understanding.
2. Hyperactivity
Everybody loses their keys to their car or phone every now and then. Inattention ADHD people however, do this regularly, and it can have a negative effect on their daily life. They may also have difficulties following through on their schoolwork or work tasks or forget important dates and deadlines, and struggle with staying on top of conversations and activities.
While people who suffer from ADHD may be more likely to have difficulty in particular professional or academic situations but their general intelligence and education levels are generally higher than average. They are frequently affected by mood fluctuations and low confidence levels depression, anxiety, eating disorders and relationship problems.
The symptoms should be present for at least six months ago and not be consistent with the individual's level of development. The symptoms should also be more severe than those triggered by other physical or mental disorders. The health care professional will examine the person's mood, history, and current symptoms. The doctor will use typical ADHD symptoms checklists, questionnaires, and rating scales in order to determine if the individual has the characteristics 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 always on the move and act as if they're "driven" by motors, and have trouble waiting for their turn. (For example, they finish other peoples' sentences, or can't wait until it's their turn to speak; or adolescents and adults may start 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 struggle with controlling your emotions or making good decisions. This can cause issues at school or work. It also may affect your relationships and your health. You might find it difficult to stop yourself from interrupting others or shouting when you are angry. It's crucial to seek assistance for impulsive behavior that causes problems for you or others.
The signs of ADHD begin in childhood but they can persist through teen years and even into adulthood. The age of the individual determines the criteria for the diagnosis. Children younger than 16 years of age must exhibit at least six symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
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 because the symptoms of inattention don't disappear when you get older but the hyperactive and impulsive symptoms do decrease.
Many people who exhibit impulsive behaviors may benefit from therapy as well as other strategies. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy can help you understand how your thoughts and emotions impact your behavior. It can also teach strategies to manage anxiety and stress which can result in impulsive behavior. adults with adhd symptoms offered by Calm such as this guide to Overcoming Yourself-Criticism, can help you replace negative self-talk with positive self-talk that encourages self-compassion.
Ask your doctor to assess your condition if you exhibit ADHD symptoms but were not diagnosed as when you were a child. Your GP can refer you to the best services for your needs, such as a Community Mental Health Service or a specialist Neurodevelopmental Service. A thorough assessment by a health care provider or a mental health professional can determine the cause of your symptoms, formulate a diagnosis and identify effective treatments. Your provider will look at your mood, any other health conditions you have, as well as your family history.
4. Anxiety
People suffering from ADHD often have difficulty recognizing their own feelings, and in particular anxiety. This can lead to a lack in empathy or an overly critical self-perception. It can cause self-medicating through alcohol or drugs which can exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD. A diagnosis of adult ADHD can provide relief and hope in the event that these problems persist. It can also help them to realize that their problems aren't their fault.
Anxiety disorders affect 25 to 40% of adults suffering from ADHD. Anxiety and ADHD share many symptoms, including problems with concentration, restlessness and difficulties in meeting deadlines. The main distinction is that worry usually has a particular target. It is more unpredictable and floating. It can be difficult to differentiate between depression and anxiety, which can cause similar symptoms.
When anxiety and ADHD are combined, it's called "anxious ADD", or "ADHD w/anxiety." Anxiety symptoms can interfere with relationships, jobs school, and other daily activities. A doctor might suggest a treatment program that includes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as well as meditation, and medications. The stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine, and non-stimulant medications such as the antidepressant bupropion or atomoxetine can be utilized.
A primary care doctor will conduct a preliminary evaluation for ADHD. If your doctor suspects that you are suffering from ADHD, he'll refer you to an expert in mental health, like a psychologist or psychiatrist. These professionals will ask about your family history, as well as other factors that may contribute to ADHD. They will also ask about your symptoms, including how they impact your school, work and home.
5. Boredom
It is important to remember that boredom isn't just a sign of ADHD. It can be experienced by those who do not suffer from ADHD. Boredom is a feeling that can be caused by the brain's desire for an interruption or lack of stimulation. Certain personality traits, like sensation-seeking and extraversion, may be a contributing factor to feelings of boredom. Boredom is a typical condition that can be managed by a variety methods.
While boredom can lead to an absence of motivation, it is often followed by feelings of satisfaction and happiness. This is why many therapists believe that learning how to deal with boredom in a healthy manner can boost emotional well-being as well as create opportunities for creativity.
It's important to know that stress and boredom can be connected regardless of whether or not a person has ADHD. Stress can cause symptoms, and can hinder functioning at home, at work or school, or other social event. If a person is frequently bored it's an appropriate time to talk to a physician.
It's also important to remember that there are other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to ADHD, including anxiety and depression. It is crucial that patients be aware of any medication, especially when stimulants are being prescribed to treat other conditions.
You or someone you love may be suffering from ADHD if they are easily irritable, impulsive or easily distracted. Women who have ADHD are more likely to go undiagnosed or be misdiagnosed than men due to the fact that their symptoms differ from classic symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. They might also struggle with chronic tardiness, and struggling to keep track of the budget or scheduling appointments.