Adult Signs of ADHD
As adults, people with ADHD often go undiagnosed and untreated. They might have a hard time managing their responsibilities in the workplace and at school, resulting in difficulties in their personal lives as well.
A thorough evaluation may include the involvement of a spouse or partner to interview the person to learn about their history of ADHD symptoms or behaviors.
1. You Can't Focus
People who have trouble focusing might have an ADHD diagnosis. adhd in women symptoms may struggle with their work or school responsibilities, such as making reports or meeting deadlines, because they are unable to remain focused. Their brains are easily distracted and they have trouble regulating their emotions such as anxiety, depression or rage. They also have difficulty following instructions that require many steps or recalling specific details.
ADHD symptoms are more prevalent in children, but can also be observed in adults. Many people who are diagnosed having ADHD are surprised because they didn't have symptoms before. They may have made it through college or beyond without realizing they had ADHD, but as they took on more demanding responsibilities--such as working full-time, raising a family, or managing their finances--the challenges they experienced became more pronounced.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a great relief. You now understand the reasons you've had difficulty in focusing, and realize it's not your fault. what are the symptoms of adult adhd can address it and improve your life.
You can determine ADHD by speaking with a health professional who will perform an extensive assessment and give an accurate diagnosis. You can ask your physician for a referral or contact a local hospital medical school, medical school or graduate school of psychology to determine whether they know someone who is competent. Certain insurance plans include professionals based on their specialties. They can also help you locate the best one for you. You could also consider joining an adult ADHD support group to get recommendations from other people who suffer from this condition.
2. You are always fumbling
If you are unable to remain still and are having difficulty focusing, fidgeting could be an adult sign of adhd. Many people think it is normal to be fidgeting, but persistent fidgeting can be a sign of deeper problems like ADHD. Fidgeting is commonplace on the feet and hands however it can happen anywhere on the body. It can appear as doodles in a meeting or tapping your feet. It is not an ideal idea to be fidgeting while you are driving or operating machinery.
Adult hyperactivity is harder to spot than that of children. Certain people suffering from ADHD may not display any obvious signs, however they are still agitated or overwhelmed. They may enter rooms without knocking or interrupting conversations, even when they're not invited to contribute. If you are experiencing hyperactivity that hinders your ability to be productive or rest well consult a physician about getting an ADHD assessment.
You are likely to receive a referral from your doctor or via the website of a CHADD professional directory. If you are insured and want to know more, request your insurance company to help you find a doctor who performs ADHD tests. It's important to be open and honest with your doctor regarding your ADHD symptoms. They should be aware of all your symptoms and how they affect your life. If you keep information from them this could lead to an incorrect diagnosis or a treatment plan that isn't suited to your needs. A qualified doctor will assess your health and formulate a treatment plan that will include medication, counseling and lifestyle modifications. They may also recommend a support group for you to join.
3. You are always late
We all know someone who is always late. While it may be a source for laughter in certain social situations however the stress it creates for those around them could be a lot. It could be a sign an adult suffers from ADHD.
It could be that you are always late due to an overbooked day or the necessity of finishing one project before starting another, or lack of planning (this is known as the "planning fallacy"). It could also be due to the fact that the person is impulsive and doesn't plan their actions before they act. For instance, rushing into rooms without knocking on the door or interrupting conversations without asking. This type of behavior may cause tension and missed opportunities, both for the individual and those closest to them.
Many people with ADHD don't recognize that their tardiness is a problem or how it affects other people. Some people might be able to conceal their symptoms at work or in social situations. However, if symptoms are causing problems it is essential to talk to an expert in mental health or a doctor.
In the course of the evaluation, it can be helpful to interview the non-ADHD partner or spouse of those diagnosed as having ADHD to gain an understanding of the way that the condition impacts their lives. This can help the non-ADHD person develop a more understanding attitude towards the person, and will help improve their relationship after the diagnosis is confirmed. Having a positive view of the effects of ADHD can help to avoid feelings of shame and embarrassment.
4. You're Always Disorganized
If you are chronically disorganized you might be struggling to locate your keys or remembering important dates. You might also struggle to manage household chores or finish work tasks. These problems can lead to feelings of anxiety and low self-esteem. Undiagnosed disorder can impact your work as well as your relationships with others and your overall health. A diagnosis of adult ADHD can give you some relief and optimism, since it indicates that your difficulties aren't due to lack of intelligence or apathy.
Disorganization is often misunderstood in our society, and being messy or forgetful may be viewed as a character flaw or a sign of mental illness. It is more prevalent in females than males, and may occur with other conditions such as depression or anxiety.
Hyperactivity is also more difficult to recognize for adults than children, who show it with obvious signs such as running and jumping. Instead the signs of hyperactivity in adults could be a sign of restlessness or an inability to remain still. It may also manifest as a tendency to bite your nails or tapping your feet.
Symptoms of impulsivity, another characteristic of ADHD, can include interrupting other people while they're talking or acting without thinking, and disobeying social norms. It can also be manifested as a tendency to make decisions without considering the pros and cons or engage in an activity without weighing the pros and con.
If you're not sure if your symptoms are linked to ADHD ask your doctor to refer you to a specialist who can perform an evaluation. You could also ask your insurance company for a list of specialists in your area who are qualified to treat ADHD. You can also contact local support groups, university-based hospitals or graduate schools to find out whether they have professionals who are experienced in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
5. You're having a difficult time multitasking
A person suffering from ADHD might have difficulty with multiple tasks at the same time. The reason is that the brain of someone with ADHD tends to become absorbed in something that is exciting to it, and it has trouble shifting attention away from the task at hand. This can result in an inability of completing tasks, and may result in procrastination.
This is a symptom that can be observed in the workplace, when an adult struggles with completing projects or maintaining their productivity. Adults may be prone to jump from project to project despite having numerous deadlines and work-related obligations. They might have difficulty organizing their schedule or keeping the track of important events like doctor's appointments.
Children are more hyperactive than adults. However those with ADHD might show signs of hyperactivity. They may flitter with their fingers or hair during a meeting, or doodle while in a meeting. They might also experience difficulty staying focused.
Discuss with your doctor an ADHD evaluation if you're experiencing difficulties staying on top of your work or seeing signs of hyperactivity. Your doctor or mental health professional might be able to suggest a healthcare provider qualified to conduct ADHD evaluations on adults. You can also ask a friend or family member, a support group or the benefits department at your workplace for recommendations.
It is important to keep in mind that ADHD is not a defining factor for your capabilities and may be a strength in certain areas, like flexibility or creativity. If you've been diagnosed with ADHD, you can consult with a professional to devise strategies and frameworks that help you manage your symptoms and excel in the workplace and at home.