I often see patients whose ADHD has been misdiagnosed with bipolar or a personality disorder because these symptoms are similar. But when they start on the right treatment plan, we often see dramatic improvement.
Dr Pablo Jeczmien MD
Signs of ADHD in adults
ADHD can impact many aspects of an individual’s life. For example, it can be hard for someone with ADHD to have stable, lasting relationships, progress at work, manage their finances well, and keep on top of important daily tasks. Statistics also show an increased risk of criminality or substance abuse in adults with ADHD.
Common symptoms of ADHD include:
Hyperfocus:
- Becoming absorbed in tasks that are stimulating to the point of everything else being ignored
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
- Forgetfulness and continually losing or misplacing things
- Restlessness, edginess and difficulties relaxing
Hyperactivity:
- Inner restlessness
- Easily bored
- Constantly craving excitement
- Difficulty keeping quiet
- Blurting responses and poor social timing when talking to others
- Frequently interrupting others
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
I have struggled with mood swings for over 20 years and have been given many diagnoses including bipolar. This is the first time I have had a comprehensive assessment – Dr Jeczmien was able to give me a diagnosis of ADHD and recommended treatment which has made a dramatic change in my life. I now have the ability to function according to my true capacity and ability.
Robert, London
If you think you might have ADHD, a diagnosis could help you make sense of behaviours and past decisions. Various treatments, including medication and therapy, can help manage all kinds of challenges, but the first step is to get an assessment.
The relationship between ADHD and other mental health conditions
Other conditions, such as depression and anxiety can commonly accompany ADHD in adults. It’s thought that there are both biological and environmental reasons for this. For example, it may be because some people with ADHD also have a natural susceptibility to other conditions, such as anxiety and bipolar. It may also be that the symptoms of ADHD, such as difficulties with concentration, and difficulties at work and in relationships, can cause or exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression.
Do you have ADHD?
The ADHD test is an easy and anonymous way of finding out if the symptoms you are struggling with and how you are feeling is a result of ADHD. Your results may indicate whether you might benefit from treatment from one of our friendly clinicians.