Signs of ADHD
People with ADHD typically have a difficult functioning at school, at work and in their relationships. They might forget appointments, delay tasks or underestimate how long tasks can take.
Stereotypes of ADHD in children are those of boys who flit around, interrupt others and blurt out answers without raising their arms. But girls can get ADHD, too.
1. You are having trouble paying attention
You could be suffering from adhd if you are having trouble paying attention. People who suffer from ADHD might also have problems staying organized taking decisions, and are easily distracted by the events around them. ADHD symptoms can begin in childhood but can persist throughout adulthood. They can cause difficulties at school, in the workplace and in relationships. They can trigger anxiety, stress and depression. Some physical and mental conditions can trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD. A healthcare professional will have to evaluate your situation in order to find effective treatment.
Many adults with untreated ADHD were not diagnosed with ADHD as children. They were able to manage their symptoms as children, but they run into more serious problems as they age. They are more responsible, and it is harder for them to manage their work, household or family life. They may feel frustrated or denigrated by their inability stay on task. They might lose important documents, forget to pay their bills, and find it difficult to follow instructions. They may have trouble keeping a job or be consistently late to work. They may have a difficult time sitting still and may have difficulty sleeping. They might be impulsive and make bad decisions that could have major consequences.
Teachers and parents may label ADHD kids as dreamers, goofballs or slackers. They may have a difficult time being a good friend to their siblings or friends. They may be unable to follow the school's instructions and have trouble learning. They might have trouble engaging in quiet play or interrupting other people when they speak. They may fidget with their feet or hands or have trouble playing games and waiting for their turn.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person must show at least six symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, or an impulsiveness. The symptoms must last for at least six month and must be affecting at least two different settings (home or at 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, cluttered papers, and messy rooms. They are unable to keep the track of appointments, bills and medications. They might also forget important dates, lose items or fail to finish tasks. This could lead to issues with their relationships, financial difficulties and job challenges.
Finding it difficult to stay organized might seem like a normal part of growing up, but when you suffer from a mental health issue this could be an indication that you require help in your ability to organize. Adults with these conditions may be able to manage their symptoms by using tools such as lists, reminders, and color-coding. These strategies are only able to take you to a certain point. If your organizational issues are chronic, you may need to seek diagnosis and treatment.
A person suffering from ADHD might be irritable, easily bored and want to be entertained on a whim. They might get into disputes or lose their temper rapidly. They may spend money impulsively or take things that aren't theirs. These behaviors may not be recognized until the child reaches adulthood and faces more serious challenges at work and in their personal lives.
Many people with ADHD have problems with their careers in the sense that they don't perform as well as their peers. They may have difficulty following company policies, meeting deadlines or keeping a steady job. They may also struggle financially because of late payments, lost documents or purchase decisions made on impulse.
It may be useful to schedule daily time to organize your supplies and your space if you tend to become distracted. This can help you focus during lectures and meetings, keep on top of your work schedule and appointments, and also remember details. Try writing your most important ideas down on paper or on a smartphone to prevent them from disappearing.
People suffering from ADHD might have a hard in understanding their own feelings and managing them, which could result in low self-esteem and depression. They can also feel a sense of anxiety, and their thoughts may be triggered by worrying events in a loop. Adult ADHD can cause emotional changes that could make it hard to maintain close relationships.
3. You are having trouble following along
When someone has ADHD it can be difficult for them to adhere to a plan or to follow through on obligations and tasks. They might miss deadlines or forget important information. They may have difficulty staying engaged in lectures or conversations, and appear to be distracted or pondering their thoughts. They might avoid or disapprove of tasks that require a constant mental effort. These issues could have a major impact on their schoolwork, academics and personal relationships.
Signs of inattention ADHD, which doctors used to call ADD are often evident in children who are small. You may observe them fidgeting, squirming, or leaving their seats when they are expected to, having trouble hearing and recollecting the information they received. They may also have difficulty playing or performing leisure activities at a secluded location. They might also be able to blurt out their answers prior to the questions are completed.
People with hyperactive/impulsive ADHD show more noticeable symptoms as they get older. You might see them jumping up on furniture or having difficulty taking turns in group games. They might have trouble engaging in leisure activities quietly or be unable to wait for their turn, or interrupt others, or even use items belonging to others without permission. They may be unable to remain focused or sit for long periods and tend to talk a lot and blurt out their answers. They may also take over conversations or games of other people.
In some instances children who suffer from ADHD aren't recognized as having the disorder because their parents aren't aware that their behavior isn't typical for their age. To be diagnosed with the disorder the symptoms must have been evident before they were 12 years old and triggered problems in more than one environment.
Adults suffering from ADHD might have a difficult time finding work and maintaining a successful career. They may struggle with managing their finances, keeping a clean house, or meeting the obligations of their relationship. They may be impulsive or easily bored, and may be more likely to experience depression, anxiety, or mood swings. Adults with ADHD are usually irritable, anxious and have low self-esteem. They might be inclined to self-blaming for their troubles and may have difficulty dealing with frustration or disappointment.
4. You struggle to get things done
If someone suffers from ADHD it can be difficult to keep the track of all the things to be completed. This can lead to procrastination and disorganization that leads to feelings of frustration, worry and despair. People with ADHD are also prone to having difficulty managing their emotions, or coping with setbacks. For example, when an important project fails to be completed in time, they might feel anxious or embarrassed. They might also be tempted to give up when they feel overwhelmed by their own mistakes.
As adults, it's harder to spot ADHD symptoms because they take on different types. Children who suffer from ADHD are often openly disruptive, restless, and anxious in school or other structured environments 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 do not exhibit signs of hyperactivity. Some people with ADHD might have a tendency for fidgeting, such as tapping their feet or gnashing their nails.
People suffering from ADHD are also prone to having trouble being a good friend to other people especially if their condition is not properly diagnosed and treated. They can be difficult to be around and are more likely to make mistakes others find irritating or annoying. adults with adhd symptoms can make teamwork difficult due to their tendency to flit from one task to the next. They could be too ebullient, interrupting others and not listening to their own point of view.
Speak to your doctor if struggling at work because of difficulties in concentration, organization or managing emotions. They can evaluate your situation and provide treatment suggestions. They will be looking to determine whether you suffer from any other mental health problems or physical illnesses that might cause similar symptoms. They might request you to complete a series of clinical interviews, behavior rating scales, or symptoms checklists. They might also inquire about your medical history, mood, as well as the medications you are currently taking and in the past.
People suffering from ADHD can achieve success if they know how their condition affects them. They can use strategies to improve their productivity, and relationships. They may also seek out professional help to manage their symptoms with psychotherapy and medication.