ADHD Symptoms Adults May Experience
Are you having trouble staying organized, often forget important tasks or you frequently lose your keys or wallet? Then you may have ADHD.
Your doctor will refer you to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) to establish a diagnosis. The symptoms have been present for a minimum of 6 months and are inappropriate for your developmental stage.
1. Inattention
Many people suffering from ADHD have difficulty staying focused and on task typically at school or work. This can result in unfinished work, incomplete projects at work or with chores, forgotten appointments and a general feeling of disorganization. These issues can also create difficulties in relationships with family and friends.
Adults with inattentive ADHD often have difficulty concentrating in conversations or lectures and reading long documents. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders of the American Psychiatric Association, adults with inattentive ADHD have difficulty concentrating during lectures or conversations and also reading lengthy documents. They could miss crucial information or make a mistake in their work. Inattentive ADHD patients may not be able to stay still and may have to walk around, tap their foot or chew gum during meetings.
Inattentional ADHD can be disguised by other issues such as depression, anxiety or physical health issues like stress or physical illness. This can mean that people aren't referred for an ADHD assessment or find their issues mixed up with a different issue. This could mean they're not treated.
In addition to inattention, some adults with ADHD might also have hyperactive-impulsive symptoms or a combination of both. These symptoms include difficulty being seated, feeling anxious interrupting others, and engaging in impulsive behavior without thinking about the consequences. This can create problems in the home at work, at home, and with friends, and can lead to inappropriate behavior such as excessive spending or sexual activities. This kind of ADHD is more likely to manifest in school environments where teachers are able provide supervision and support.
2. Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity, or restlessness, is one of the ADHD symptoms that adults frequently encounter. You might feel "on the move" or have difficulty playing or participating in leisure activities at a secluded. This could also mean you are unable to wait your turn in conversations or games. Certain people who suffer from ADHD have difficulty judging how long it will take to complete certain tasks. It can be difficult to determine how much time to devote doing homework, or preparing for an important meeting at work.
Adults who are hyperactive are more likely to pace or fidget, talk a lot and have trouble sitting still. They may also have difficulties following directions and making decisions. Adults may struggle to get out of bed or getting up, be late to work or school and lose their keys frequently. This could result in tension in relationships and poor performance in school or at work.
While we don't know the causes of ADHD in children, research studies have revealed that genetics could be a factor. The environment and the issues with the central nervous system of the brain at crucial stages of development can increase the chances of developing ADHD.
It is crucial that you or someone you love seeks assistance from your physician if they have ADHD. inattentive ADHD in adults symptoms may refer you to mental health professionals who specialize in treating adults with ADHD. NIMH offers tips on how to speak with your doctor about ADHD in case you're not sure where to begin. You can also learn more about ADHD by reading the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5TR). It is available online for download for free.
3. Impulsivity
Although impulsivity is less prevalent than hyperactivity and inattention it may still be present in a few adults with ADHD. People who behave without considering the consequences could have issues with their relationships, their work, and even at school. They might not be able to sit still or talk in a loud manner, or interrupt others often. They might also find it difficult to stop themselves from making decisions that they regret later. They may spend time or money on things aren't needed, quit at the last minute or have unprotected sex 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 present in at least two different settings like home, school, or working, with friends or family members, or in other activities. These symptoms should cause serious problems and interfere with or diminish the quality of, school, social or work-related functioning.
Adults who weren't diagnosed with ADHD as children might discover that their symptoms continue into adulthood and cause issues in relationships or at work. In these instances an individual health professional or mental health professional will assess the person's symptoms. This could include looking over old report cards and talking to family members about childhood issues.
People with ADHD usually respond well to treatment with psychotherapy, lifestyle changes and medications called stimulants. These stimulants increase levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which enhance attention and focus. These drugs can cause adverse effects, but are generally regarded as safe when taken under medical supervision. Other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, may also be beneficial. Certain adults suffering from 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 small details. This can hinder their work performance, make them difficult to coexist with in their personal relationships, and can cause divorce or separation.
Talking too much, blurting out answers before others have finished their questions, interrupting other people or acting out on impulse without considering the consequences are indicators of adult ADHD. These behaviors can also impact their daily life at home, as well as their relationships with family and friends. They may forget important dates, such as birthdays and anniversary dates or find it difficult to complete household tasks or budget.
In addition, adults with ADHD tend to become easily bored and have a difficult time sitting still or waiting for others to arrive. They can feel restless or fidgety, which is an indication that is difficult to differentiate from depression and anxiety. People with ADHD can also be angry or uncontrollable. This is especially the case when they are tired or frustrated.
Speak to your GP in the event that you think you may have a disorder, such as ADHD. They can refer you to a specialist in mental health to conduct an evaluation. They will inquire about your symptoms and what impact they have on your daily functioning. They will also ask about any other health concerns you suffer from. Some medications, including those for depression, high blood pressure and high blood sugar, can interact negatively with stimulants.
It can take time to assess someone for an illness such as ADHD, and there are sometimes waiting lists. The process is based on NICE guidelines. Your GP can discuss your challenges with you, and ask to speak with your family members/whanau as well as employers (if possible). If they agree you have ADHD symptoms, they will refer to the most appropriate service to assess your needs.
5. Anxiety
You may also experience anxiety if you have ADHD. The good thing is that with appropriate treatment, you will be able to manage your symptoms. Anxiety is an emotional reaction. Chronic anxiety can be an issue that is serious. The first step is to identify the triggers that cause anxiety. This could be specific environments, tasks, or relationships. You can also utilize your self-awareness in order to determine if your ADHD symptoms may be contributing to, or exacerbating your anxiety.
People with ADHD have a hard time staying engaged in a task or undertaking, making it difficult to meet deadlines and other requirements at work and school. They have difficulty prioritizing tasks, which can lead to confusion and missed opportunities. This can also cause problems with family members or friends.
In addition to being a major cause of stress, anxiety can be crippling. It can trigger a variety of physical reactions, such as sweating, a rapid heartbeat, and a general feeling of a sense of anxiety. It can also cause difficulty concentrating and even depression.
Anxiety is a common comorbid condition with ADHD. In fact, those suffering from the disorder are more likely to have a mood or anxiety disorder than people who do not have ADHD. They also have higher rates of addiction, smoking or consuming alcohol, eating disorders, and issues with their families.
The most effective treatment for anxiety and ADHD is a combination of medication and therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you identify and change unhealthy habits, beliefs, and ways of thinking to change your behaviour. Your doctor might also suggest other types of therapy such as family or marriage counseling, to help manage anxiety and improve relationships with your loved one. You could also consider keeping a journal or meditating to alleviate your stress.