Signs of ADHD
People suffering from ADHD struggle to function at school, at work, and in their relationships with others. They may struggle to remember appointments, putting off tasks or underestimating how long a task will take.
Stereotypes of ADHD in children are boys who run around interrupting other people and shout out answers without raising their arms. But girls can get ADHD, too.
1. You Have Trouble Paying Attention
You could be suffering from adhd if you are having trouble paying attention. Many people with ADHD also have trouble being organized and making decisions, and may be easily distracted by other activities happening around them. Symptoms of ADHD often start in childhood, but they can continue into adulthood. They can cause problems in the workplace, at school and in relationships. They can lead to depression, anxiety and stress. Some physical and mental conditions may trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD. A provider will have to evaluate your situation in order to determine the best treatment.
Many adults suffering from untreated ADHD have an undiagnosed history of childhood ADHD. They were able to manage their symptoms as children, but they can run into more serious issues as adults. They have more responsibilities and it becomes more difficult to manage their household, work or family life. They might feel frustrated and slighted by their inability to remain focused. They could lose important documents, fail to pay their bills and find it difficult to follow instructions. They might struggle to keep their job or are consistently late to work. They might have trouble sleeping and have trouble sitting still. They could be impulsive, and make poor choices that can have serious consequences.
Teachers and parents may identify ADHD children as goofballs, dreamers or slackers. They may have difficulty getting along with their peers or siblings. They may not be able to follow instructions in school and have trouble learning. They may have difficulty playing quietly or interrupting others while they talk. They may be prone to fidgeting or moving their hands or feet a lot or have trouble waiting for their turn during games.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person must show at least six symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity or an impulsiveness. The symptoms must last at least six months and must be affecting at least two different settings (home and/or at school). They also must have experienced the symptoms prior to age 12. Providers use a special set of guidelines called the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) to determine if someone has inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive or combined type ADHD.
2. You Have Problems Organizing
People suffering from ADHD can often be overwhelmed by their messy desks, disorganized papers and cluttered rooms. They have trouble keeping track of bills, appointments and medication. They may be unable to remember important dates, forget items, or fail to finish tasks. This can lead them to relationship issues, financial problems and job difficulties.
Being unable to organize your life may seem like a normal aspect of growing up, but in the case of mental health issues it could be an indication that you require help in your ability to organize. Adults who experience these symptoms might try to compensate by relying on tools like lists, reminders, color-coding and rituals. These methods will only get you so far. If your organizational problems are persistent, it could be necessary to seek treatment and diagnosis.
A person suffering from ADHD might feel restless, easily bored and look for excitement on the spur of the moment. They could have arguments or lose their temper easily. They might spend money in a hurry or purchase items that aren't theirs. These behaviors can remain undiagnosed until adulthood, when they start to face more serious personal and work difficulties.
Many adults with ADHD struggle with career issues and feel that they aren't able to measure up to their peers. They may have difficulty following the company's policies and deadlines, or maintaining a steady job. They may also struggle financially due to missed payments, lost documents or purchase decisions made on impulse.
If you tend to get distracted and lose track of time, it could be beneficial to create daily times to arrange your workspace and supplies. This will help you stay focused during lectures and meetings, keep the track of your work and appointments, and remember the details. Write down your major ideas on paper or on your smartphone to ensure they don't disappear.
People with ADHD might have a hard time understanding their own emotions and regulating them, which can result in low self-esteem and depression. They may also experience anxiety and their thoughts replaying stressful events. The emotional changes that occur with adult ADHD can make it difficult to maintain relationships with loved ones.
3. You're having difficulty following along
It isn't easy for a person with ADHD to follow a plan or to complete commitments and tasks. They may lose important information or fail to meet deadlines. They may have difficulty staying focused in conversations or lectures and appear distracted or daydreaming. They may be hesitant or disapprove of tasks that require a constant mental effort. These issues can have a significant impact on their schoolwork, academics and personal relationships.
Symptoms of inattentive ADHD, which doctors used to call ADD are often evident when children are very small. You might notice they are squirming or fidgeting while trying to sit still, or leaving their seat when they are expected to do so, having difficulty remembering what they were told. They might also have trouble engaging in leisure activities or playing quietly. They may also be able to blurt out their answers prior to the questions are answered.
People with hyperactive/impulsive ADHD show more noticeable symptoms as they get older. You may notice them jumping up and down on furniture, or having trouble taking turns in group games. They may have difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly or be unable to wait for their turn, disrupt others, or even use other people's items without permission. They might not be in a position to sit for prolonged periods of time, or remain focused. They may also talk excessively or blurt out their answers.
Some parents fail to recognize that their child's behavior is not typical for their age. To be considered to have ADHD, the symptoms must have existed before 12 years old and must have caused problems in a variety of environments.
As adults, people suffering from ADHD may have difficulty finding work and maintaining their successful careers. They may have trouble managing their finances, maintaining their home clean or completing the obligations of their relationship. They might be impulsive, easily bored, or more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression or mood swings. Adults who have ADHD often suffer from anxiety, restlessness, as well as low self-esteem and confidence. They are likely to be at risk of blaming themselves for their problems, and may have trouble coping with disappointment or frustration.
4. You struggle to get things done
If you suffer from ADHD, it can be hard to keep on top of the tasks to be completed. female symptoms of adhd can lead to delays and a feeling of disorganization that leads to feelings of worry, anger and depression. People who suffer from ADHD may also have trouble managing their emotions and dealing with delays. If a major project isn't completed within the timeframe, for example, they may feel nervous or embarrassed. They could also react to their own mistakes by feeling overwhelmed and resigning.
As adults, it's more difficult to recognize ADHD symptoms because they can take on a variety of types. Children with ADHD tend to be openly anxious, irritable and anxious at school or in other structured environments, while adults who have ADHD might not be as apparent. Adults with ADHD are often seen as always stressed or pushing beyond their limits, even if they do not exhibit signs of hyperactivity. Some people with ADHD may have a tendency for fidgeting, such as tapping their feet or biting their nail.
People with ADHD are also prone to having trouble being a good friend to other people especially if their condition is not treated and diagnosed. They may be difficult and more likely to make mistakes that other people find annoying or irritating. Their tendency to move between activities could hinder teamwork. They may be too talkative, interrupting others and not paying attention to their perspective.
If you have trouble at work due to issues in concentration, organization, or managing your emotions, you should consider talking to your doctor. They can evaluate your situation and suggest solutions. They will be interested in knowing whether you have any other mental health issues or physical ailments that may cause similar symptoms. You might be asked to take part in an interview with a clinician, behavior rating scales, or symptom checklists. They may also look at your medical history, mood and past and current medications.
People with ADHD are able to succeed if they understand how their condition affects them. They can utilize strategies and supports to improve their performance and relationships. They can also seek help from a professional to manage their symptoms using medication and psychotherapy.