ADHD Symptoms Adults May Experience
Do you have trouble staying well-organized, forgetting important tasks, or often lose your wallet or keys? If so, you could have ADHD.
Your doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5) criteria to make an assessment. The symptoms have been present for more than six months, and are suitable for your stage of development.
1. Inattention
Many people with ADHD struggle to stay focused, whether at school or at work. This may result in incomplete assignments, classwork or chores left unfinished with no reminders, a lack of appointments and a general sense of disorganisation. These challenges may also result in problems with family and friends.
Inattention symptoms are usually less evident in adults, however they can be painful. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders of the American Psychiatric Association, adults who suffer from inattention ADHD have difficulty concentrating during lectures or conversations and also reading lengthy documents. They may miss important information and make careless errors at work. Inattention ADHD patients may not be able to stay still and may require them to pace, tap their foot or chew gum during meetings.
Inattentive ADHD may be misdiagnosed as a health issue like anxiety, depression or physical ailments like stress. This can mean that individuals aren't referred for an ADHD assessment or have their challenges confused with another issue, which could mean they are never treated.
In addition to inattention, some adults with ADHD might also have hyperactive-impulsive symptoms or a combination of both. They may have trouble sitting still, feeling restless and interrupting others, and doing things on impulse without thinking about the consequences. It can lead to problems with work, family and social life and could cause inappropriate behavior such as impulsive spending and sexual activity that is not protected, or breaking promises. This type of ADHD is more likely to manifest in school environments where teachers are able supervise and offer assistance.
2. Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity, or restlessness is one of the ADHD symptoms adults often experience. It can be a feeling that you're always "on the go" or having difficulty playing or participating in leisure activities without interruption. It also can mean being unable to wait for your turn during conversations or games. Certain people with ADHD struggle to estimate how long tasks will take. For example, it may be difficult to know how long to spend on homework or making preparations for a meeting at work.
Adults with hyperactivity are more likely to pace or fidget, talk too much and have trouble sitting still. They may also have difficulties following instructions and making decision. Adults may have difficulty getting up or out of their bed in the morning. They are late to work and school and frequently lose their keys. This can result in strained relationships and poor performance at the workplace or at school.
Although we don't know the exact cause that causes ADHD research suggests that genetics play a role. The environment and issues with the central nervous system of the brain at key moments during development can also increase the likelihood of developing ADHD.
If you or a loved one has ADHD it is important to seek help from your doctor. Your doctor can refer you to mental health professionals who specialize in treating adult ADHD. NIMH provides tips on how to talk to your doctor about ADHD in case you're not in a position to know where to start. You can also find out more about the condition by reading the American Association for Psychiatric Research's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). It is available for download online.
3. Impulsivity
Although impulsivity is less common than hyperactivity and inattention, it is still a possibility in some adults suffering from ADHD. People who make decisions on impulse without thinking about the consequences usually struggle with relationships, work or school. They might not be able to wait for their turn, speak loudly or interrupt others often. They might be unable to manage their impulses and make decisions they regret later. They might spend time or money on things that they don't need, quit an employment on the spur of the moment or even have sex that isn't protected without thinking about the consequences.
In order for a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms must have been present before age 12 and persist into adulthood. The symptoms should be evident in a variety of settings, including home, work or school; with friends and family or in other settings. These symptoms should cause major problems and interfere with or hinder the quality of school, social or work-related functioning.
Adults who were never diagnosed with ADHD as children might discover that their symptoms continue into adulthood and cause issues at work or in relationships. In these instances an individual health care provider or mental health professional will assess the person's symptoms. This may include reviewing old reports and speaking with relatives about childhood issues.
People suffering from ADHD typically respond well to treatment through psychotherapy, lifestyle changes and medications called stimulants. Stimulants raise the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves focus and attention. These drugs can cause side effects but are generally considered safe if taken with medical supervision. ADHD in adult men symptoms , like cognitive behavioral therapy, can also be effective. Certain adults with ADHD benefit from joining a peer support group.
4. Disruptiveness
When people with ADHD struggle with managing their emotions or paying attention to the specifics of the situation, they may be disruptive. This can affect their work performance and make them difficult to handle in relationships with others. It can cause separation or divorce.
Adult ADHD is defined by excessive talk, interrupting others, or acting without considering the consequences. These behaviors can also affect their home life and damage their relationships with friends and family. They may not remember important dates, such as birthdays and anniversary dates, or struggle to complete household chores or stick to a budget.
Adults suffering from ADHD are also prone to becoming bored easily and have a difficult time sitting still. They may be agitated or fidgety, which is a symptom that is difficult to differentiate from depression and anxiety. People with ADHD may also be angry and irritable, especially when they are exhausted or angry.
If you suspect that you have a disorder like ADHD you should talk to your GP or a licensed psychologist. They can refer you to a psychiatrist or another mental health professional for an assessment. They will inquire about your symptoms and what effects they have on your daily functioning. They will also ask you about any other health concerns that you might have. Some medications, including those for depression, high blood pressure and high blood sugar can interact negatively with stimulants.
Sometimes, it takes an extended time to diagnose a condition like ADHD. There are also waiting lists. The procedure is based on NICE guidelines. Your GP will discuss your challenges and, if it is possible, ask to speak to your family/whanau, or employer. If they agree you have ADHD symptoms, they will refer to the appropriate service to assess you.
5. Anxiety
You might also experience anxiety if you suffer from ADHD. You can control your symptoms by utilizing the appropriate treatment. Anxiety is an normal reaction to emotion. Chronic anxiety can become a serious issue. The first step is to pinpoint the factors that trigger anxiety. It could be a particular environment or tasks, or even relationships. You could also use your self-awareness in order to determine how your ADHD symptoms may be aggravating or causing, your anxiety.
People suffering from ADHD typically have trouble staying focused on a task or an activity. This makes it difficult to keep deadlines at school or work, and to meet other expectations. They often struggle with prioritizing and causing miscommunication and missed opportunities. This can cause issues with family or friends.
Anxiety can be crippling and is a major source of stress. It triggers a range of physical responses, including a rapid heartbeat, sweating, and a general feeling of unease. It can also cause problems concentration or even depression.
Anxiety is often a comorbid disorder that can be a result of ADHD. In fact, people with the disorder are more likely to have a mood or anxiety disorder than those without ADHD. They are also more likely to suffer from addictions, smoking, impulsivity and eating disorders.
The most effective treatment for anxiety and ADHD is a combination of medication and therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you recognize and change unhelpful attitudes, beliefs and patterns of thinking, can help you change your behavior. Your doctor can also recommend other types of therapy, such as marriage or family counseling for managing anxiety and improving relationships with your loved ones. You can also keep a journal or meditate to alleviate your stress.