Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
Adults who suffer from ADHD might find it difficult to manage. However, a diagnosis can help them manage their symptoms so they can achieve their goals at work and at home.
A chat with your doctor is the best way to start an assessment. They can refer you the appropriate service, such as community services for mental health or neurodevelopmental services.
1. Inattention
If you have ADHD your brain's automatic system of attention may not work in the same way. This means that you may miss important information at work or in school and have difficulty remembering things. You may also find it difficult to concentrate on tasks that require constant concentration, such as reading, math or writing. You might be having trouble taking your time during conversations or games. You may blurt out answers before others are completed asking questions. You might not be able to wait for your phone or interrupt other people at inappropriate times.
Many adults with ADHD are still struggling with inattentive symptoms. People with mainly inattentive type ADHD tend to have trouble being on task at home, at school and at work. This kind of ADHD can have mild, moderate or even serious symptoms.
Adults who are susceptible to inattention symptoms may be more stressed when their lives become increasingly complicated and stressful. This could happen when someone moves from the home of their parents or into the workplace and new responsibilities like taking care of a child can add to the overall stress and anxiety.
There are a myriad of treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD such as lifestyle changes diet, medication, and lifestyle changes. Drugs that stimulate the brain, like methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine-based medications (Adderall) can reduce symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Non-stimulant medications such as atomoxetine (Strattera) are also an option for some people who are unable to tolerate stimulants or aren't responsive to them. Your doctor can recommend the best treatment options for you. They will evaluate your symptoms and history, look for medical problems that could be causing them and suggest effective treatments.
2. Hyperactivity
People with ADHD may have difficulty staying focused on their task. They might be distracted between activities or make a mistake at school or at work. People with ADHD frequently forget important dates or events and have difficulty keeping track of routines. They might also find it difficult to keep their belongings in order or stay on track with long-term projects.
Adults with ADHD still show problems with inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, but these symptoms may become less noticeable with age. Health professionals will look into the background of ADHD symptoms during childhood and early adulthood. They may also speak with relatives, friends, coworkers or other people who know the person well. They will also use standard behavior ratings scales and ADHD symptom lists. Health care professionals or mental health specialists may also do a physical examination and administer a psychological test.
The provider will also consider the person's mood and whether any other disorders like depression, anxiety or a medical issue could cause similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD. They will also ask about family and social history and lifestyle habits, as well as any other mental health issues the person might be suffering from.
Many adults who suffer from ADHD will feel a sense of relief after getting an explanation for their struggles and learning that they are not 'lazy or unmotivated'. They may also be frustrated over the fact that they weren't diagnosed as young or the impact untreated ADHD has affected their lives and the lives of those around them. They might also feel anger at teachers, parents or healthcare professionals who didn't detect the symptoms or address them. They might also feel sad about the missed opportunities and effects that untreated ADHD had on their relationships.
3. Fidgeting
The signs of ADHD in adults appear slightly different than they do in children. Adults may be able to hide their hyperactivity more successfully and other health issues like depression or anxiety can overshadow it.
Fidgeting is an indication of ADHD. It can be thought of as your body's way of trying to ease your stress and help you concentrate. It could manifest in doodles or notes written during a meeting, or tapping your feet or biting your nails. In fact, some research shows that people with ADHD can actually concentrate better when they are allowed to play.
Disruptiveness can also be a symptom of ADHD. It can manifest in the form of difficulty following directions, forgetting important dates or deadlines, or being late. You might find yourself regularly not attending to work or social obligations and may struggle with finances because of the impulsive spending. Adults suffering from ADHD often feel that they are not doing enough and discontent because they are not achieving their potential.
You should be able recognize the symptoms of ADHD to get assistance. It is crucial to test out different dosages and medications to find the one that is most effective for you. Counseling and a structured lifestyle can help you manage ADHD symptoms in addition to taking medication.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD and diagnosed with it, you might experience an array of emotions. You may feel relieved that your issues have an explanation and you're not being labeled as lazy or unmotivated. You may also feel anger or frustration for not being diagnosed and treated as a child, and sadness over the impact that untreated ADHD has had on your professional life and relationships.
4. severe ADHD symptoms in adults of ADHD in adults often differ from those of adolescents and children. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are not uncommon. This can make it difficult to keep up with the demands of work, keep deadlines on track, and build good relationships.
In adults, the signs are more subtle and may be present across many aspects of our lives. People who suffer from ADHD for instance, may have difficulty staying still, and may be anxious while reading, watching television or at work. They may also have trouble engaging in leisure and hobbies quietly. They might also have difficulty managing their emotions and are more likely to react or become upset than others.
The difficulties of planning and organizing can become more evident as we grow older without the structure of school or parental guidance. This can lead to delays in household bills, appointments and completing work tasks. People with ADHD may have difficulty to stop or start tasks, and they might have trouble assessing the long-term consequences of their actions.
Stimulant medication is the most commonly prescribed treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications are intended to help people focus better, feel calmer and less impatient. They are available by prescription only and can be obtained from a psychiatrist or a GP who is specialized in the condition. It is important to discuss any other medications they're taking prior to deciding on the use of stimulants with a health care provider, as some drugs interact with them.
Non-stimulant medications are available for people suffering from ADHD like Guanfacine and atomoxetine. These medications are not as effective and can take several weeks before they start working. However, they are an alternative for those who do not wish to take stimulant medication for medical reasons or are not able to take it due to health reasons.
5. Impulsivity
While the official ADHD symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity get the most attention, impulsivity is also a significant problem for adults with ADHD. It's unfortunate that impulsivity gets short shrift when it is a part of ADHD diagnosis, because it's an integral part of the disorder and causes proportionally more problems than any other symptom of ADHD.
Self-control is an ongoing challenge for those with impulsive ADHD. It can lead to embarrassing mistakes that can affect the status of relationships and social standing. It can also be harmful to your health and well-being.
People with aggressive ADHD may be prone to risky behavior and may have difficulties managing their finances or driving. They are more likely to have mood swings and express anger-related outbursts. Research has shown that people with ADHD have an amygdala with a smaller size, which may link to less control over their impulses.
Adults with impulsive ADHD might also have difficulty waiting for their turn in conversations or lines. They might answer questions prior to finishing or even take over games or activities. They often disregard rules and property of others.
If you suffer from an impulsive ADHD There are some things you can do to help you gain control over your impulses. Regular aerobic exercise, for instance helps with all ADHD symptoms, including the impulsivity. To get your heart rate going, aim for 30 minutes per day of exercise. Review your past impulsive experiences to identify your triggers and plan for the future. Ask your doctor for non-stimulant ADHD medications, which require a while before they start working, but they can improve your impulse control.