ADHD Symptoms Adults May Experience
Are you struggling to stay organized? Do you often forget important tasks, or often lose your wallet or keys? Then you may have ADHD.
Your health care provider will employ the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5) criteria to establish a diagnosis. The symptoms have been present for more than six months and are suitable for your stage of development.
1. Inattention
Many people who struggle with ADHD have trouble staying focused and staying on task in school or at work. This can lead to not being able to finish work, a lack of completion of projects at work or with chores, missed appointments and a general feeling of disorganization. These challenges can result in problems with family and friends.
Adults with inattentive ADHD often have difficulty concentrating during conversations or lectures, and also reading lengthy documents. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders of the American Psychiatric Association, adults with inattention ADHD have difficulty concentrating in conversations or lectures and reading lengthy documents. They may miss important information and make careless errors at work. Inattention ADHD sufferers might be unable to remain in a seated position for long periods of time. They may require chewing gum and tap their feet, or move around during meetings.
Inattentive ADHD can be disguised by other issues, such as depression, anxiety or physical health issues like stress or physical illness. This could mean that people aren't referred for an ADHD assessment or have their challenges confused with a different issue. This could mean that they are not treated.
In addition to inattention, some adults with ADHD might also have hyperactive-impulsive symptoms or a combination of both. These symptoms can include difficulty sitting still, feeling restless or interrupting others, as well as doing things on impulse, without thinking about the consequences. It can cause issues with family, work and social life, and may cause inappropriate behavior like spending impulsively and sexual activity that is not protected, or breaking promises. Symptoms of this type of ADHD are more common in school environments where teachers can observe the students and provide appropriate help.
2. Hyperactivity
Restlessness, also known as hyperactivity, is one of the ADHD symptoms adults often suffer from. You might feel "on moving" or have trouble playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly. It also can mean being in a hurry to get your turn in games or conversations. Some people with ADHD find it difficult to estimate how long certain tasks will take. For instance, it might be difficult to know the time needed to complete homework or making preparations for a work meeting.
Adults who are hyperactive tend to fidget or move their feet or talk too much. They also struggle to sit still. They may also have difficulties following directions and making a decision. Some adults may have trouble getting up or out of bed in the morning, are late to work and school, and often forget their keys. This can result in uneasy relationships and poor performance at the workplace or at school.
Although we don't yet know the causes of ADHD in children, research studies have revealed that genetics could play a role. Additionally, the environment and problems with the brain's central nerve system at key moments in development can increase the risk of developing the disorder.
If you or someone you love suffers from ADHD it is important to seek help from your health professional. Your doctor can refer you to mental health specialists who specialize in treating adults ADHD. If you're unsure where to start, NIMH offers tips for discussing with your health professional about ADHD. You can also learn more about the disorder by reading the American Association for Psychiatric Research's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). This is free online.
3. Impulsivity
Although impulsivity is less prevalent than hyperactivity and inattention it may still be present in a few adults with ADHD. People who make decisions without thinking about the consequences can have problems with their relationships, work, and at school. They may not be able to sit still and talk too much or interrupt others regularly. They might not be able to manage their impulses and make decisions that they regret later. They may spend money or time on things aren't needed, quit at the last minute or go out without considering 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 present in at least two settings like school, at home, work, with friends and family members, as well as during other activities. The symptoms must be an issue that is significant and impact the quality of social, school or work performance.
Many adults who did not receive an ADHD diagnosis as children realize that their symptoms continue to persist into adulthood, causing problems at work or with relationships. In these instances, a health medical professional or mental health professional will evaluate the person's symptoms. This could include looking over old report cards and talking to relatives about childhood issues.
People with ADHD typically respond well to treatment with psychotherapy, changes in lifestyle and medications referred to as stimulants. The stimulants increase the levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhance focus and attention. While these drugs may cause negative effects, they are considered safe when administered under the supervision of a physician. Other treatments, like cognitive behavioral therapy, may also be beneficial. Certain adults with ADHD benefit from joining a support group.
4. Disruptiveness
People with ADHD can be disruptive when they have difficulty managing their emotions and paying attention to the smallest details. This can impact their performance at work and cause them to be difficult to manage in relationships with others. extreme ADHD symptoms adults could even lead to divorce or separation.
Adult ADHD is defined by excessive talking and interrupting others, or acting in a way that is not thinking about the consequences. These behaviors can affect their personal life as well as their relationships with their family and friends. They may not remember social obligations such as birthdays or anniversaries, and struggle to finish household chores or stick to a budget.
In addition, adults with ADHD tend to become easily bored and have a difficult time getting bored or waiting for others. They are often agitated and fidgety, a symptom that can be hard to differentiate from depression or anxiety. People suffering from ADHD may also be irritable or uncontrollable. This is particularly true when they are exhausted or angry.
Talk to your GP in the event that you think you may have a disorder such as ADHD. They can refer you to an expert in mental health for an assessment. They will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your daily activities. They will also inquire about any other health issues that you might have. Some medications, including those for high blood pressure, depression and high blood sugar, can interact negatively with stimulants.
It can take time to determine if someone has a disorder such as ADHD and there are sometimes waiting lists. However, the process is based on NICE guidelines. Your GP will discuss your challenges and, if possible, ask to speak to your family/whanau or employer. If they are of the opinion that you are suffering from ADHD, they will send you to the most appropriate service for an assessment.
5. Anxiety
There is also the possibility of experiencing anxiety if you have ADHD. The good news is that with appropriate treatment, you will be able to manage your symptoms. Anxiety is an normal reaction to emotion. Chronic anxiety can become an issue of serious concern. The first step is to pinpoint the triggers that cause anxiety. This could be certain environments or tasks, or even relationships. Self-awareness can also be used to figure out what your ADHD symptoms might be contributing to or exacerbating your anxiety.
People suffering from ADHD have a hard time engaging in a task or activity, which makes it difficult to meet deadlines and other requirements at school and work. They often struggle with prioritizing, leading to miscommunication and missed opportunities. This can cause issues with family members or friends.
In addition to being a major source of anxiety, it can also be debilitating. It can trigger a variety of physical reactions, including rapid heartbeat, sweating and a general feeling of unease. It can also cause trouble in concentration, or even depression.
Anxiety is often a co-occurring disorder that can be a result of ADHD. People with ADHD are more likely than those with ADHD to suffer from an anxiety or mood disorder. They are also more likely to have addictions such as smoking, impulsivity, smoking and eating disorders.
The most effective treatment for anxiety disorders and ADHD is a combination therapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you to identify and reframe harmful attitudes, beliefs and patterns of thinking will help you change your behavior. Your doctor might also suggest other types therapy, such as marriage or family counseling to reduce anxiety and improve relationships with your loved ones. You could also consider keeping journals or practicing meditation to alleviate your stress.