Signs of ADHD
People with ADHD are unable to function effectively at school, at work and in their personal relationships. They may struggle to remember appointments, delaying tasks or underestimating how long a task will take.
Stereotypes of ADHD in children are boys who flit around interrupting other people and mutter answers without raising their arms. But girls can get ADHD, too.
1. You're having trouble paying attention
You could be suffering from adhd if you have trouble paying attention. Many people suffering from ADHD also have difficulty being organized and making decisions and are easily distracted by other activities going on around them. ADHD symptoms can manifest in childhood, but may persist throughout adulthood. They can cause issues at school, at work and in relationships. They can trigger anxiety, stress, and depression. Some physical and mental conditions may trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD. A provider will need to assess your condition in order to find effective treatment.
Many adults who suffer from untreated ADHD have a history of undiagnosed childhood ADHD. As children, they were able overcome their problems. As they grow older their problems become more acute. They are more responsible, and it is harder for them to manage their work, household or family life. They may feel frustrated and slighted by their inability to stay focused. They could be late with important paperwork or forget to pay their bills, and have difficulty following directions. They may have trouble keeping an occupation or be constantly late to work. They may have a difficult to sit still and have trouble sleeping. They could be impulsive, and make poor decisions that could have serious consequences.
Teachers and parents could identify ADHD kids as dreamers, goofballs or slackers. They may have trouble being a good friend to their peers or siblings. They may have difficulties learning and might not be able to follow instructions in school. They may have difficulty being quiet or interrupting others when they talk. They may fidget with their hands or feet or have trouble playing games and waiting for their turn.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, a person must display at least six symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and/or impulsivity. They must exhibit these signs for at least six months, and they must be affecting at least two settings (home and/or school). They must also have had the symptoms before age 12. Providers use a special set of guidelines called the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) to determine if someone has inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive or combined type ADHD.
2. You Have Problems Organizing
People with ADHD can often be overwhelmed by their messy desks, disorganized papers and cluttered spaces. They struggle to keep the track of appointments, bills, and medication. They might also forget important dates or lose items or fail to complete their tasks. This can lead to problems in relationships, job struggles and financial problems.
Being unable to organize your life may appear to be a normal part of growing older, but when you suffer from a mental health issue it could be an indication that you need help with your organizational skills. Adults who are struggling with these symptoms may try to compensate by relying on tools such as lists or reminders, color-coding, and rituals. But, these methods will only get you only so far. If your organization problems are chronic, you may require diagnosis and treatment.
A person suffering from ADHD might be irritable and easily bored. They may also look for excitement on the spur of the moment. They may be involved in disputes, or lose their temper easily. They might spend money in a hurry or purchase items that aren't theirs. These actions may not be spotted until the child reaches adulthood and faces more serious challenges at work and in their personal lives.
Many people with ADHD believe they aren't the same as their peers in the field of work. They might have trouble adhering to the company's policies and deadlines, or maintaining an employment. They might struggle with finances as well, due to missed bill payments, misplaced paperwork and impulsive spending.
It can be helpful to plan your daily schedule to organize your supplies and your space if you tend to be distracted. This will help you stay focused during meetings and lectures Keep track of your work and appointments, and keep track of the details. Note down adult female adhd symptoms on paper or on your smartphone to prevent them from disappearing.
People with ADHD may have trouble understanding and managing their emotions, which can cause depression and low self-esteem. They may also experience an anxiety-like feeling and their thoughts may play over worrisome events on loop. Adult ADHD can trigger emotional changes that can make it hard to maintain close relationships.
3. You are having trouble following along
It can be difficult for someone with ADHD to adhere to a schedule, or to finish tasks and commitments. They might forget important details or miss deadlines. They may have difficulty staying focused during lectures or conversations and could appear to be distracted or daydreaming. They may be hesitant or avoid tasks that require constant mental effort. These issues can have a significant impact on their school, work and personal relationships.
The signs of inattention ADHD (which doctors used to call ADD) can manifest in children who are very young. You might notice they are squirming or fidgeting or leaving their seats when expected to, having difficulty hearing and recollecting the information they were given. They might also have trouble playing or engaging in leisure activities without a lot of effort, blurt out answers before questions are answered and have trouble waiting for their turn.
People with hyperactive/impulsive ADHD show more noticeable symptoms as they get older. You might see them jumping around on furniture, or having trouble taking turns in group games. They might have difficulty playing quietly or participating in leisure activities. They may also be unable wait for their turn or interrupt other players. They may not be capable of sitting for long periods of time, or remain focused. They might also talk a lot or blurt out answers.
Many parents aren't aware that their child's behavior is not typical for their age. To be considered to have ADHD, symptoms must have existed prior to 12 years old and have caused problems in a variety of settings.
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty finding employment and maintaining a profitable career. They might struggle with managing their finances, keep their home clean or fulfill the obligations of their relationships. They might be distracted, impulsive and more likely to be suffering from depression, anxiety, or mood swings. Adults suffering from ADHD are often restless and anxious. They also are self-defeating. They might be prone to blame their troubles on themselves, and might have trouble coping with disappointment or frustration.
4. You are having trouble getting things Done
If you suffer from ADHD, it can be difficult to keep on top of the tasks that must be completed. This could lead to procrastination and an unorganized feeling, and feelings of anxiety, frustration, and discouragement. People with ADHD can also have difficulty managing their emotions, or coping with delays. When an important project isn't completed within the timeframe for instance they may be anxious or embarrassment. They might also react to their own mistakes by feeling overwhelmed and resigning.
Adults may have a harder to recognize ADHD symptoms, since they can manifest in different types. Children who suffer from ADHD tend to be openly disorganized, restless and anxious at schools or other structured settings as adults with ADHD may not be as apparent. Adults with ADHD may appear to be always hurried, or pushed beyond their limits, even if they don't show any signs of hyperactivity. In some instances, those with ADHD might have a tendency to fidget, for example, tapping their feet or gnashing their nails.
People suffering from ADHD are also prone to having trouble getting along with other people particularly if their condition is not treated and diagnosed. They can be difficult and more likely to make mistakes others find annoying or irritating. Their tendency to move from one activity to another could hinder the teamwork. They may be too talkative and interrupt, and might not be able to hear the other person's perspective.
If you're having difficulty at work due to issues in concentration, organization or regulating your emotions, it's worth talking to your doctor. They will assess your situation and suggest ways to treat it. They will inquire if you are suffering from any other mental illness or physical illnesses that may cause similar symptoms. You might be asked to complete a clinical interview, behavior rating scales or symptom checklists. They could also inquire about your medical history, mood, and your current and past medications.
People who have ADHD are able to succeed by understanding the way their disorder affects them. They can employ strategies and resources to increase their productivity and relationships. They can also seek out professional assistance to manage their symptoms with medication and psychotherapy.