Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopment disorder that can go undiagnosed during childhood, only to manifest later in life. Often understood with regard to the inability to focus, ADHD is a complex problem that can present a wide range of symptoms.
In adults especially, ADHD can be harder to pinpoint. Many adults may even have been good students, which makes the diagnosis harder still.
However, just because ADHD is not officially diagnosed till later in life does not mean such adults had it easy. On the contrary, coping is even more difficult in such situations, as people do not know why they are feeling so, and as a result, they might develop complexes about themselves.
Hence, knowing ADHD adult symptoms is imperative for all so that if they think they have them, they can contact the doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of ADHD in adults
Restlessness
As also suggested by the name, adults with ADHD are restless. They need to be doing things all the time. They feel agitated and frustrated due to their restlessness as well.
Disorganized
While some people are deliberately sloppy, those with ADHD are disorganized on account of their disease. It is harder for them to keep track of things, be on time, prioritize tasks, etc.
Lack of attention to detail
Due to attention deficit, adults with ADHD are more prone to lack an eye for detail.
Relationship issues
ADHD also causes people to suffer from greater relationship issues. Their inattentiveness might come across as insensitivity and disregard. Moreover, ADHD might also cause them to be irresponsible, speak out of turn, become easily bored, and be disorganized, all of which can make it harder for them to maintain good relationships.
Focus problems
Another sign of ADHD is becoming easily distracted. Or some might also zero in on one thing with a lot of focus, which is not healthy either.
Anxiety
Adults with ADHD are also more prone to suffering from anxiety. Their mind replays the events that cause them distress. As they also become frustrated rather quickly, therefore their anxiety gets exacerbated.
Emotional upheaval
ADHD also causes emotional issues. People constantly jump from one emotion to the other, which naturally takes a toll on them. Moreover, ADHD can also cause shifts in mood. It can lead to emotional instability as well.
The impact of fluctuating emotions is not limited to the person’s mental health alone, but it causes problems with relationships as well.
Fatigue
Adults with ADHD are more likely to feel fatigued. It is not only because of their hyperactivity, but ADHD also negatively affects sleep. Moreover, the toll of trying to overcome the symptoms of ADHD can also lead to a lot of fatigue.
Substance abuse
Not all people with ADHD will take substances like drugs and alcohol, but they are more likely to experience substance abuse. It is thought that they turn to different substances in order to mitigate the negative symptoms of ADHD like anxiety.
Getting help
If you think you have these ADHD signs, rather than jumping the gun, it is best that you consult experts and wait for a proper diagnosis.
