Symptoms of Adult ADHD
Are you consistently late to work, social events and meetings? Are you prone to forgetting or skipping tasks at home? If yes, you may be suffering from undiagnosed ADHD.
There are two types of ADHD: inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive. If you suffer from inattentive ADHD your symptoms are centered on being disorganized and forgetful.
1. Disorganization
A person suffering from ADD might have trouble keeping school and work materials organized, manage time, complete tasks or meet deadlines. They might also find or lose items essential for daily tasks like books, tools or wallets. If a person experiences these symptoms regularly and their doctor is able to evaluate them for ADD. The doctor may ask the patient and family members for specific information to aid in diagnosing ADD.
2. Hyperactivity
People suffering from ADD typically have trouble staying focused or sitting at school or work. They also may be unable to keep track of their appointments and schedule. They often forget or misplace things, such as their wallet, documents or eyeglasses. Their workplaces and homes may be messy or unorganized and they struggle to complete tasks requiring sustained mental effort. They also have poor working memory and are easily distracted by external stimuli. These are the characteristics of what was previously called ADD or Predominantly inattentive Type ADHD.
adult adhd symptoms with hyperactive ADHD appear to be constantly on the move, as if "driven by motors." They are unable to sit still, especially in classroom settings that revolve around expectations of neurotypical children. They often play around or climb up, even when it's not appropriate. They are quick to answer questions before they have finished. They also have a difficult time waiting for their turn and often interrupt or interfere. In the adolescent and adult years the symptoms can diminish however they are present.
The symptoms of ADD are often difficult to spot in adults, as they are less overt than those that are seen in children. However family physicians are uniquely equipped to detect ADD in adults and start and monitor treatment, as well as refer their patients for mental health services when they are needed. Moreover, in many cases family physicians are often the first to recognize that a patient is having difficulty working on their schoolwork or attending business meetings and can't seem to stay organized. Family physicians can confirm ADD diagnoses and develop a comprehensive treatment plan by using the routine interviewing methods. Here are some of the most common signs of adult ADD.
3. Attention!
Inattentive ADHD is characterized by difficulty in focusing and concentration that can lead to difficulties at school or at work. They can manifest as unfinished homework or assignments messy homes, unorganized desks or failure to pay bills or return phone calls on time. Inattention ADHD sufferers can also lose important items needed for everyday tasks like keys or wallets. They might have trouble listening to others, and lose the essence of conversations. Or they can become bored by presentations and meetings. They may drift off and think about their interests or re-watch social media content.
Unlike hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, the inattentive type of ADD is more common in adults. A lot of family physicians don't recognize ADHD in their patients, either because they're not familiar with the disorder in adults, or because comorbid problems mask its presence. However, a trained doctor can diagnose the condition by asking specific questions regarding symptoms and past history.
The criteria for a diagnosis of inattentive ADHD include having a range of symptoms of inattention and five or more persistent symptoms that interfere with, or reduce the quality of, one's social, academic or work performance. Symptoms must be present for at least six months and be unsuitable for the patient's developmental level.
Medication is the most effective treatment for ADHD, along with the behavioural therapy. There are many medications to choose from and it's crucial to select the appropriate one. It's recommended to start with one drug and closely examine its effectiveness, since symptoms can get worse with time. It is recommended that you visit your doctor at least once per year. In most cases an adjustment to your dose will be necessary to keep your meds working at their best.
4. Impulsivity
One of the main symptoms of ADHD is the tendency to be impulsive, which implies that people with the condition often act without thinking first. They may utter answers before questions have been asked, interrupt others, or engage in reckless behaviors that can have serious consequences. Impulsive behavior can also cause problems with interpersonal relationships and can exacerbate symptoms of other mental disorders, such as anxiety disorders, or mood swings. Research suggests that the impulsive behavior of adults with ADHD is a result of decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex. This area is crucial to the control of impulses and decision-making. It's also linked to atypical regulation of dopamine, which affects reward-processing as well as impulse control.
The urge to buy something new can cause financial issues and the rush of dopamine from purchasing something new outweighing the cost, practicality, or rationality of buying. These decisions can also affect self-care. They could cause poor decisions about lifestyle choices or unhealthy eating habits. It can be hard to break this pattern however, there are ways to reduce the impulsivity. One way is to make a list of situations where you are likely to act impulsively. If you're tempted by the urge to say or act uncontrollably, place your finger on your mouth for a few moments and pretend to keep yourself locked in. This gives you time to think about whether it is a good decision.
Breathing techniques can also assist you in feeling more grounded and focused. Some studies have shown it can aid in regulating the autonomic nervous system and decrease negative emotions that trigger impulse-driven behaviors. Making lists and focusing on mindfulness can be beneficial. You can reduce impulsive behavior by predicting the occasions and times that you are likely to make impulsive decisions. For instance you could bring fidget toys along to meetings or put reminders in your wallet that remind you that you should count to 10 before you respond.
5. Fidgeting
Fidgeting involves repetitive movements that calm the nervous system and improve focus. It can be a sign of ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity or inattention. People with ADD tend to be distracted and focused on a task or lecture however, it can hinder social interactions and trigger other health problems.
Fidgeting is often seen as a negative habit which should be avoided, however, experts have discovered that it can actually increase concentration. This type of fidgeting can be known as intrinsic fidgeting and it consists of movements that are made using your own body, not a thing. Examples include clicking a pen or tapping your feet.
In a research study, students who fidget during class found that their concentration and attention spans improved after they began using stress balls during lessons and self-work sessions. They discovered that manipulating the balls helped them focus and allowed interaction with students and teachers.
It is important for parents to know that fidgeting is normal and part of human experience, and it isn't a sign of mental illness. However, if adult adhd symptoms is disruptive to their classroom or at home, it is recommended that you work with their doctor to determine whether they have an underlying condition that could be treated, such as restless leg syndrome (RLS).
In addition to medications There are many ways to reduce ADHD symptoms and improve your ability to focus. For instance, you can use a timer to break down long tasks into smaller manageable chunks or set aside an area to work in when you are distracted by things in the vicinity. You can also apply mindfulness techniques to relax your mind and improve your concentration, or try a new activity that will keep your hand busy. For example, knitting can be an excellent method to improve your concentration, while also taking pleasure in the feeling of accomplishment that comes from making an hat or blanket.