ADHD Symptoms Adults May Experience
Are you having trouble staying well-organized, forgetting important tasks or you frequently lose your wallet or keys? 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 determine a diagnosis. The symptoms have been present for more than six months and are not suitable for your developmental stage.
1. Attention!
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to stay on track whether at work or in school. This can result in unfinished projects, incomplete tasks at work or chores, forgotten appointments, and a general feeling of disorganization. These issues can also result in problems with family and friends.
ADHD in adults women symptoms of inattention are typically less evident in adults, however they can be painful. Adults with inattentive ADHD often have trouble to focus during lectures or conversations and to read long documents, as per the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). They might miss crucial information and frequently make careless mistakes at work. Inattentive ADHD sufferers might be unable to sit still for long periods of time and may need to chew gum or tap their feet to keep up with meetings.
Inattentional ADHD can be disguised by other problems such as anxiety, depression, or physical health issues like stress or a physical illness. This could mean that people aren't referred for an ADHD assessment or find their issues mixed up with another issue, which 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. They may have trouble staying still, being restless and interrupting others, as well as doing things on impulse without thinking about the consequences. It can lead to problems with work, family and social life, and may result in inappropriate behaviours like spending impulsively and sexual activity that is not protected, or breaking promises. Symptoms of this type of ADHD are more common in schools where teachers can monitor them and provide appropriate support.
2. Hyperactivity
ADHD can affect adults in a variety of ways. Restlessness or hyperactivity is just one of the symptoms. You may feel "on moving" or have trouble playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly. It can also mean being in a hurry to get your turn in conversations or games. Certain people with ADHD struggle to estimate how long tasks will take. It may be difficult to determine how much time to spend on homework or preparing for a crucial meeting at work.
Adults who are hyperactive tend to fidget, or pacing their feet or talk too much. They also are unable to sit still. They may also have trouble following directions and making a decision. Some adults have difficulty getting up or out of bed in the morning, are late for work and school and frequently lose their keys. This symptom may also lead to uneasy relationships and poor performance in school or at work.
Although we aren't sure the causes of ADHD in children, studies have shown that genetics may be a factor. Additionally, the environment and problems with the brain's central nervous system at critical times in development can increase a person's risk of having the disorder.
If you or a loved one is suffering from ADHD it is important to seek out help from your health professional. Your doctor may refer you to mental health professionals who specialize in treating adult ADHD. NIMH provides advice on how to talk to your doctor about ADHD in case you're not certain where to start. You can also find out more about the disorder by reading the American Psychological Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). This is available for free online.
3. Impulsivity
Although impulsivity is less common than hyperactivity or inattention This trait could be present in certain adults with ADHD. People who act without considering the consequences may have issues with their relationships, their work, and even at school. They may not be capable of waiting for their turn, talk loudly or interrupt others often. They may also find it difficult to stop themselves from making decisions that they later regret. They could spend money or time on things they don't need, quit an employment on the spur of the moment 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 must be evident in at least two settings, such as school, home, at work, with friends and family members, or in other activities. These symptoms must indicate an issue that is significant and impact the quality of school, social, or work functioning.
Many adults who have never received an ADHD diagnosis as children find that their symptoms continue to persist into adulthood, causing problems at work or in relationships. In these instances the health care professional will evaluate symptoms. This could include looking over old reports and talking to family members about childhood issues.
People with ADHD respond well to psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and stimulant medication. Stimulants increase the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine that help improve focus and attention. While these drugs can have negative effects, they are safe when they are taken under the supervision of a medical professional. Other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can also be effective. Certain adults suffering from ADHD benefit by joining a peer support group.
4. Disruptiveness
People with ADHD can be very disruptive when they have trouble managing their emotions and paying attention to details. This can affect their performance at work and cause them to be difficult to handle in personal relationships. It can even result in divorce or separation.
Adult ADHD is defined by excessive talk, interrupting others, or acting in a way that is not thinking about the consequences. These behaviors can also affect their daily life at home, as well as their relationships with their family and friends. They may forget important dates, like birthdays and anniversary celebrations, or struggle to complete household tasks or budget.
Adults suffering from ADHD are also prone to becoming bored easily and have a difficult time being still. They may feel agitated or fidgety, an indication that is difficult to distinguish from anxiety and depression. People with ADHD may also be irritable or short-tempered. This is especially true when they are stressed or tired.
If you think you are suffering from a disorder, such as ADHD, talk to your GP or a registered psychologist. They can refer you to a psychiatrist or any other mental health professional for an evaluation. They will ask about your symptoms and what impact they have on your daily life. They will also ask you about any other health issues you may be suffering from. This is because some drugs, like those for depression and high blood pressure can interact with stimulants.
It may take a while to assess someone for an illness such as ADHD, and there are sometimes waiting lists. However, the process follows NICE guidelines. Your GP will discuss your challenges and, if possible, ask to speak to your family members/whanau or your employer. If they believe you have ADHD symptoms they will refer you to the appropriate service to evaluate you.
5. Anxiety
You may also experience anxiety if you suffer from ADHD. The good news is that with proper treatment, you can manage your symptoms. Anxiety is an expected reaction to emotions. Chronic anxiety can be an issue of serious concern. The first step is to identify the triggers that cause anxiety. This could be a specific situation or tasks, or even relationships. You can also utilize your self-awareness in order to determine if your ADHD symptoms could be leading to, or worsening anxiety.
People with ADHD struggle with engaging in a task or undertaking, making it difficult to meet deadlines and other requirements at school and at work. They often have trouble prioritizing, leading to miscommunication and missed opportunities. This can also cause problems with family members or friends.
In addition to being a major source of stress, anxiety can be crippling. It triggers a range of physical responses, including rapid heartbeat, sweating, and a general feeling of apprehension. It can also cause difficulties in concentration and depression.
Anxiety is often a comorbid disorder with ADHD. In fact, people with the disorder are more likely to have an anxiety or mood disorder than those without ADHD. They are also more likely to be suffering from addictions, smoking, impulsivity and eating disorders.
The best treatment for anxiety disorders and ADHD is a combination therapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) assists you in identifying and reframe unhealthy mindsets and beliefs as well as ways of thinking in order to change your behaviour. Your doctor may also suggest different types of therapy such as marriage or family counseling for managing anxiety and improving relationships with your loved ones. You can also keep a diary or meditate to ease your anxiety.