ADHD Symptoms

The symptoms of ADHD and ADD are sometimes not as clear cut and obvious in adults as they are in children because adults often learn compensatory coping mechanisms.

Problems concentrating are common in adult ADHD and are exacerbated as the pressures of life increase and more demands are made on the individual to remain calm, organised and focused.

Hyperactivity that is seen in children is replaced with internalised hyperactivity, dissatisfaction and restlessness.

The affects of ADHD can be far reaching and impact on many aspects of an individual’s life. It may be hard for the individual to have stable, lasting relationships or progress at work, to manage their finances well and there may be an increased risk of criminality or substance abuse.

The most common ADHD symptoms for adults are:

Difficulties with concentration:

• Carelessness and lack of attention to detail
• Continually starting new tasks before finishing old ones
• Poor organisational and time management skills
• Inability to focus; zoning out in conversations and finding it hard to listen
• Continually losing or misplacing things
• Forgetfulness
• Restlessness, edginess and difficulties relaxing
• Depression when inactive

Hyperfocus:

• Becoming absorbed in tasks that are stimulating to the point of all else being ignored

Hyperactivity:

• Inner restlessness
• Easily bored
• Craving excitement

Difficulties with socialising:

• Difficulty keeping quiet
• Blurting responses, and poor social timing when talking to others
• Frequent interruption of others
• Difficulties sustaining relationships

Mood Problems:

• Mood swings
• Irritability and a quick temper
• Inability to deal with stress; easily flustered
• Extreme impatience
• Low self-esteem

Recklessness:

• Lack of planning
• Taking risks – both with one’s own property and other people’s safety
• Making decisions without a full evaluation of the situation or consequences

ADHD can commonly be accompanied by other conditions, such as depression and anxiety and alcohol and drug issues. ADHD can be misdiagnosed with bipolar as mood swings are experienced in both conditions, however ADHD tends to have more irritability and volatility than bipolar.

To read more about the other conditions that can be experienced by those with ADHD please click below:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Addictions