Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
The symptoms of ADHD can be a challenge for adults. When diagnosed with ADHD, they are able to take control of their symptoms and meet their goals at home and at work.
Talking to your doctor is the best place to begin an assessment. They can direct you to the best service for you, including community mental health services as well as specialist neurodevelopmental services.
1. Attention
If you suffer from ADHD your brain's automatic system of attention might not function as well. You may miss important details in your school or at work and may have trouble recalling information. You might also find it difficult to concentrate on tasks that require continuous concentration, such as writing, math or reading. You might be having trouble waiting your turn during games or conversations. You might blurt out answers before others have completed asking questions. You might not be able to sit and wait for your phone to answer or interrupt others at inappropriate times.
Children with ADHD tend to overcome the impulsivity and hyperactivity they display, however inattentive symptoms continue to cause problems for a large number of adults. People suffering from ADHD that is primarily inattention are unable to stay on task, whether at home, school or at work. This kind of ADHD may present mild, moderate or even serious symptoms.
Adults with attention deficits can become more challenging when a person's day-to-day life becomes more complicated and stressful. This can happen when a person is moved out of the family home or into a job and new responsibilities like taking care of a child can increase their stress levels and anxiety.
There are many options for those suffering from adult ADHD, including lifestyle changes, diet, and medication. The use of stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine-based drugs (Adderall) can help to reduce symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. Some people also take non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or Strattera when they cannot tolerate stimulants. Your health care provider can recommend the best treatment options for you. They can evaluate your symptoms and medical history, look for medical problems that could be causing them, and recommend the most effective treatment options.
2. Hyperactivity
People with ADHD can have trouble remaining focused on their tasks. They might be distracted between activities or make a mistake at school or at work. People with ADHD tend to forget important dates and occasions, and are unable to follow routines. They may also find it difficult to organize their things 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. To determine if they are diagnosed, health care providers will examine the patient's experience with ADHD symptoms as a child, and later in the early years of adulthood, talk to family members, friends, coworkers, or others who are familiar with them, and use standardized behavior rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. Mental health professionals or health care providers may also perform a physical exam and administer a psychological assessment.
The doctor will also take into consideration the person's mood and whether any other disorders like depression, anxiety or a medical problem might cause similar symptoms to those associated with ADHD. They will also ask about the history of family and friends, lifestyle habits and any other mental health issues the person might be suffering from.
Adults suffering from ADHD may feel relieved to know that they're not "lazy or unwilling". They may also be frustrated about the fact that they were not diagnosed earlier, or at the impact untreated ADHD has had on their lives and the lives of others around them. They may also feel angry at teachers, parents or healthcare professionals who failed to notice the symptoms or address them. They may also experience feelings of sadness over missed opportunities and the effect not being treated for ADHD has had on their relationships.
3. Fidgeting
The signs of ADHD in adults look somewhat different from what the symptoms of ADHD in children. Adults may be able cover up their hyperactivity more effectively and other health issues such as anxiety or depression could overshadow it.
Fidgeting can be a sign of ADHD. It is the body's attempt to calm down your nerves and focus. It could manifest as notes or doodles written during a meeting, or tapping your feet or biting your nails. In fact, some studies show that people suffering from ADHD can actually concentrate better if they are allowed to fidget.
Disruptiveness is a further symptom of ADHD in adults. It may be a sign of difficulty following instructions, being punctual, or ignoring important deadlines or events. You might find yourself frequently not attending work or social obligations and may be struggling with finances due to excessive spending. Adults with ADHD may be frustrated and unfulfilled because they're not performing to their full potential.
It is important to recognize the signs of ADHD in yourself, so that you can seek help. There are multiple types of medication that can treat ADHD, and it is important to test different dosages and medications to determine the best one for you. In addition to medication, counseling and creating structures in your life can help to manage ADHD symptoms.
Being diagnosed with ADHD can bring up a range of emotions, including happiness that you now have an explanation for your difficulties and aren't being labelled as lazy, sloppy, or unmotivated. You might be dissatisfied or angry for not being diagnosed and treated as in your early years. You might also be unhappy about the negative impact that untreated ADHD has on your career and your relationship.
4. Disruptiveness
The signs of ADHD in adults often differ from those of children and teenagers. Hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity, however, are common. This makes it difficult to keep up with work, meet deadlines, and develop good relationships.
Adults may experience subtler symptoms that affect a variety of aspects of their lives. For example, people with ADHD might have difficulty sitting still and are frequently agitated when reading, watching TV or at work. They might also have trouble doing leisure activities and hobbies quietly. In addition, they might struggle to keep their emotions in check and are more prone to react in a panic or become angry in comparison to other people.
Difficulties with organisation and planning can become more evident as people reach adulthood, without the structure of school or parental guidance. This can lead to procrastination, issues with household expenses, appointments, and completing work tasks. People with ADHD may have difficulty to stop or start tasks, and may have trouble assessing the long-term consequences of their actions.
Adult ADHD is usually treated with stimulant medication. They are designed to help people focus better and be less impulsive, as well as feel calmer. They can be purchased from a psychiatrist or GP that is experienced in treating the condition. When considering stimulants, people must discuss any other medications with their physician. Certain drugs may interact with them.
Non-stimulant drugs are available for those suffering from ADHD, such as atomoxetine and guanfacine. These are less effective and require several weeks before they start working. However, they're an option for those who do not want to take stimulant drugs for medical reasons or aren't able to take it.
5. Impulsivity
While official ADHD symptoms of inattention and hyperactive behavior get the bulk of the attention, impulsivity could cause significant issues for adults suffering from ADHD as well. It's a shame that impulsivity isn't given the proper attention when it is a part of ADHD diagnosis, as it's a major component of the disorder and causes more problems than any other manifestation of ADHD.
Self-control is a constant struggle for adults suffering from an impulsive ADHD. combined ADHD symptoms in adults can result in embarrassing mistakes that can affect your relationships and social standing. It can also be harmful to your health and well-being.
People with aggressive ADHD are more likely to engage in risky behaviors and may have trouble managing their finances or driving. They are more likely to have mood swings and anger outbursts. People with ADHD might have an enlarged Amygdala. This could be linked to a lack of control over their impulses.
Adults who suffer from impulsive ADHD are also more likely to interrupt other people and may have difficulty waiting for their turn in conversations or lines. They might scream out answers before the question has been answered or even take over games or activities. They typically have no respect for rules or other people's property.
If you suffer from an impulsive ADHD there are things you can do to help you gain control over your impulses. For example regular aerobic exercise can help with all ADHD symptoms such as impulsivity. To increase your heart rate you should aim for 30 minutes a day of exercise. Review your past impulsive experiences to pinpoint your triggers and prepare for the future. You can ask your doctor for non-stimulant ADHD medication, which can take a while before they start working but improve the ability to control your impulses.