Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
Many adults with ADHD have comorbid mental health issues, like depression and anxiety. These mental health issues can make it difficult to recognize ADD.
The American Psychiatric Association changed the name of the condition to "attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder," and added a new definition with three subtypes. Adults with an inattentive form of the disorder can also exhibit symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity.
1. Problems with Focusing
Adults suffering from ADHD might have difficulty staying focused, staying organized and managing demands at work or at home. These problems can lead to anxiety and low self-esteem. They may have a difficult time maintaining relationships and friendships. They may be unable to remember appointments or driving places. People who have ADHD are also more prone to becoming overwhelmed by emotions like depression or anxiety.
The most common type of ADHD is inattentive (also called Combined). In order to be diagnosed with this subtype, you must exhibit at least six inattention symptoms and one hyperactivity/impulsivity symptom. Some of these signs include forgetting important dates, not completing deadlines or being unable to complete schoolwork on time. You might be disruptive or disrupt other people's conversations and activities. You may also have difficulty reading social boundaries and frequently utter answers to questions before others are completed.
People with the hyperactive/impulsive subtype of ADHD tend to have more problems than adults with inattentive ADHD. These adults have trouble remaining still and focused. They also flitter with their feet or hands and are agitated and apprehensive. They have a tough waiting to be the next in conversation and have a hard time playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly. They aren't able to control their emotions and could leave if they aren't in the mood or act without considering the consequences.
Experts aren't sure what causes ADHD, but they believe that it is caused by differences in brain the brain's structure and chemistry. They also know the disorder can run through families and that some are diagnosed with it without any family history. They've also found that hormones play an important role in children who suffer from ADHD.
2. Making decisions can be difficult
When you're trying decide what to eat for lunch or how to manage a work conflict Indecisiveness can make your life miserable. Indecisiveness could be caused by a lack of information and confidence. It can also be a sign of mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
People suffering from ADHD have a harder time making decisions as their brains process the information in a different way. They are unable to break down complex tasks or following instructions. They also have trouble keeping track of the time and completing deadlines. They are also susceptible to distractions and could be struggling with organizational skills. This can impact their job performance and make it difficult to stay on task. In one study, half of adults with ADHD worked full-time. It is possible to find a job that works for people who suffers from ADHD. Research suggests that people with ADHD may thrive in careers like acting, sales, the military, athletic coaching, and certain trades.
Consider seeking counseling if you find yourself indecisive and it is affecting your life. A therapist can help you learn new ways to analyze situations and make decisions, and can determine if your indecisiveness may be an indication of a deeper issue.
It is not uncommon to experience difficulties making decisions but it can be difficult to overcome by yourself. You can try to reduce stress and increase your confidence by making small changes, like practicing mindfulness, asking for assistance from family or friends members, and avoiding making yourself look foolish. It is also important to keep in mind that even if you weren't diagnosed with ADHD as when you were a child, that doesn't mean you won't have symptoms as an adult. Fortunately, there are a variety of solutions for adults who suffer from this condition, including cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.
3. Trouble Managing Attention
You may find it difficult to manage your time or keep track of your obligations when you suffer from ADHD. You might forget to complete work or school assignments or you may not attend appointments. These issues can impact your life at school, work and home. Adults may also be faced with financial and relationship issues.
People with ADHD are also unable to recognize social boundaries, and they can interfere with other people's conversations, games or activities. Some of the symptoms include difficulty waiting your turn, mumbling answers before you have finished and stepping out of your seat when sitting down is the norm. In at least 1 in 4 cases of ADHD, people have a combination presentation and show both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.
Females and females are more likely to be diagnosed with the inattentive form of ADHD because their symptoms don't stand out in the same way as hyperactivity and impulsivity that males are more likely to display. This makes it more difficult for them to receive a diagnosis and treatment.
ADHD can be different for each person dependent on gender, age, and circumstances. Many healthcare providers still adhere to outdated stereotypes about the way ADHD manifests in men and boys. ADHD symptoms adult female help in diagnosing ADHD in boys and children who are assigned male at birth (AMAB) however they can disguise the issue in women and girls, and make it more difficult to treat.
People with ADHD are at greater risk for anxiety, depression and substance abuse as well as eating disorders. These issues could be a result of an underlying condition or differences in brain chemistry that occur in people with ADHD. Psychotherapy and other types of talk therapy help people with ADHD learn to recognize their behaviors and develop coping strategies. Additionally, medication can enhance focus and reduce the impulsiveness. The most commonly prescribed drugs are stimulants like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. Non-stimulants like atomoxetine and clonidine are sometimes used if stimulants do not work or cause adverse side effects.
4. Difficulty Managing Impulsivity
Lack of control over impulses can lead you to make poor decisions or make mistakes, which can have negative consequences. Adults suffering from ADHD often find it hard to put off gratification for long periods of time and may be more likely to react to their emotions than people without the disorder.
Impulsive behavior can include climbing or running in a way that is inappropriate interrupting people, talking in a hurried manner before they've finished speaking or taking things from other people without permission, grabbing objects from them, and generally being 'on-the-go'. This kind of ADHD is defined by a tendency to fidget or talk a lot or talk too much and struggle to follow instructions.
The impulsive aspect of ADHD can cause problems in all areas of life including relationships and work to finances and self-esteem. It can be a major source of stress and shame for those suffering from this condition, who could feel they are constantly slighted by others or that they are lazy or irresponsible.
A diagnosis of adult ADHD can bring relief and hope for the first time, and let people know that they are not to blame for their problems. They will realize that their procrastination, disorganization and lack of follow-through are not due to an individual flaw, but rather a consequence of their ADHD.
There are a myriad of techniques that can be employed to assist adults suffering from ADHD manage their impulsivity and improve their overall functioning. For instance, creating regular routines for the day can lessen the effects of impulsivity. It can help people to structure their days and plan ahead. Sleeping enough can help reduce impulsivity. It is important to prioritise good sleep hygiene, which includes an energizing bedtime routine and avoiding screens before the bed.
5. Difficulty Managing Emotions
People suffering from ADHD often have trouble regulating their emotions. This can lead to problems at work, school as well as in relationships. When emotions are too intense, it may be difficult for them to find a balance in their emotions or move on from an issue. An inability to regulate their emotions can make it difficult for them to cope with stress and anxiety. In some cases, this can lead to feelings of sadness, hopelessness and depression. These symptoms can make it difficult to sleep or perform their duties normally. In some cases, they may even develop suicidal thoughts.
People who struggle with managing their emotions are more likely to suffer mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety according to a 2021 study. They are also more likely to misuse substances, such as alcohol or other drugs. Women who suffer from ADHD might have a difficult time getting diagnosed or treated, as they can conceal their symptoms better than men.
It's essential to talk to your doctor about any difficulties you're having at school, work, or home. They'll want to know if you've experienced these issues since you were 12 years old or longer. They'll also want to be aware if you've experienced these issues in more than one place and if they've lasted longer than six months.
Your doctor can assist you in finding strategies that can help you to manage your ADHD symptoms. They may recommend lifestyle changes such as a consistent routine and regular physical exercise. They may also prescribe medications, such as stimulants, to reduce impulsivity and enhance functioning. Psychotherapy, or a combination of other treatments can help adults manage their symptoms. If you suffer from any other condition such as a learning disability, anxiety or a different mood disorder or addictions, your doctor will consider these when prescribing treatment.