ADHD: What does it feel like?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can affect individuals both personally and professionally and presents unique challenges.

When you have ADHD, it can feel like juggling a dozen thoughts at once. This leads to a struggle to focus and being distracted easily. Tasks that seem simple to others can become challenges. Impulsivity can often lead to quick decisions and unfinished projects.

Understanding the subjective experience of ADHD can be difficult for those who haven't personally encountered how it feels.

At Clinical Partners, we are experts in ADHD support and diagnosis. In this guide, we explain how ADHD can make someone feel. We also have a look at how it can impact someone's daily life, and the emotions it can cause.

What does ADHD feel like?
Common challenges faced by people with ADHD
What are the signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? (ADHD)
When should you look into an ADHD diagnosis?
Taking the first step towards an ADHD diagnosis

What does ADHD feel like?

Living with ADHD involves a unique combination of internal and external experiences.

Internally, individuals typically describe a constant whirlwind of thoughts. It's as if their mind is a busy place where ideas clamour for attention. This makes it challenging to maintain focus on any one task.

Externally, ADHD may present as restlessness, impulsivity, and a perpetual sense of being “on the go.” Tasks that need sustained attention, such as studying or completing work assignments, may feel very hard.

Despite the best intentions, impulsive actions can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. This further fosters feelings of frustration and self-doubt.

However, among the challenges that individuals with ADHD face, they are brilliant and creative individuals. They typically approach problems with fresh perspectives and boundless energy.

Common challenges faced by people with ADHD

People with ADHD may face a variety of challenges. Some common challenges include, but are not limited to:

Difficulty concentrating

Children and teenagers with ADHD often struggle with maintaining focus on tasks or activities. Especially those that need sustained attention. They may find it challenging to stay on track with schoolwork, chores, or conversations.

Difficulty sitting still

Those with ADHD may have trouble remaining seated or staying still. Particularly in situations that require prolonged periods of calmness, such as in the classroom or during meals. They may fidget, or constantly shift positions, unable to maintain a stationary posture.

Being forgetful and losing things

People with ADHD commonly struggle with forgetfulness and frequently misplacing items. They may have difficulty remembering important tasks, assignments, or instructions. This can lead to missed deadlines or incomplete work. Additionally, they often lose belongings such as school supplies, keys, or personal items due to their tendency to be disorganised and easily distracted.

Struggling to concentrate on time-consuming tasks

It can be challenging for those with ADHD to maintain focus on tasks that require sustained attention. They may become easily bored or frustrated with activities that require prolonged mental effort. This can lead to difficulty completing assignments, projects, or chores.

Difficulty with organisation

Organising tasks, materials, and schedules can be a common challenge faced by those with ADHD. They may struggle to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and appointments. This leads to disorganisation. This difficulty extends to maintaining tidy spaces, as they often have trouble categorising and storing belongings efficiently.

Impulsiveness

People with ADHD frequently exhibit impulsiveness in their behaviours and decision-making. They may act without considering the consequences and can often interrupt others or speak out of turn. This impulsivity can lead to impulsive spending, risk-taking behaviours, and difficulty waiting for their turn in activities or conversations.

Excessive physical movement

Those with ADHD often display excessive physical movement. These movements are characterised by restless behaviours and an inability to stay still for extended periods. They may frequently fidget, tap their feet, or shift positions, even in situations where they are expected to remain seated or stationary.

Excessive talking

Talking excessively can be a common challenge of ADHD. This may involve frequently speaking out of turn or interrupting others in conversations. Those with ADHD may struggle to filter their thoughts or regulate their speech. This can lead to a constant stream of words without pauses for listening or consideration.

What are the signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? (ADHD)

The signs of ADHD can be categorised into two main types of behavioural concerns: inattentiveness, which involves difficulty concentrating and focusing, and hyperactivity and impulsiveness.

While many individuals with ADHD experience challenges in both areas, some may predominantly exhibit signs of inattentiveness, a condition also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD).

This form of ADHD can sometimes go unnoticed, especially in girls who may primarily display signs of inattentiveness without hyperactivity or impulsiveness.

Signs in children and teenagers

Recognising the signs of ADHD in children and teenagers is essential for early intervention and support. While the presentation of ADHD can vary widely among individuals, common signs include:

Inattentiveness:

Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks or play activities
Frequently making mistakes in schoolwork or other activities
Appears not to listen when spoken to directly
Difficulty organising tasks and activities
Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort
Often loses items necessary for tasks or activities
Easily distracted by external stimuli

Hyperactivity and impulsivity:

Fidgeting or tapping hands or feet
Difficulty remaining seated in situations where it is expected
Runs or climbs excessively in inappropriate situations (in adolescents, this may be manifested as feelings of restlessness)
Unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly
Talks excessively
Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
Difficulty waiting their turn in activities or conversations

Signs in adults

ADHD signs can persist into adulthood. They may manifest differently compared to childhood. Recognising these signs is crucial for adults seeking support and management strategies.

Common signs of ADHD in adults include:

Inattention
Hyperactivity and impulsivity
Emotional dysregulation
Relationship and occupational challenges
Chronic procrastination and difficulty initiating tasks
Problems with organisation and maintaining a tidy living or working space.
Increased risk of substance abuse, particularly in attempts to self-medicate ADHD experiences.

When should you look into an ADHD diagnosis?

Determining when to pursue an ADHD diagnosis is a personal decision. Various factors determine management, such as persistent signs and how much it impacts your daily life.

Seeking an ADHD diagnosis is a proactive step toward understanding and addressing challenges associated with the condition. A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional can provide clarity and guidance in developing a personalised management plan.

Here are some indicators that may prompt consideration of an ADHD diagnosis:

Persistent signs: If you consistently experience signs of ADHD, such as difficulty focusing, impulsivity, or hyperactivity, across different settings (e.g., home, school, work) and over an extended period (typically six months or more), it may be worth exploring further.
Interference with daily life: ADHD signs may significantly interfere with daily activities, relationships, and academic or occupational performance. They may also affect your quality of life. Seeking a diagnosis can help identify strategies for managing these challenges more effectively.
Recurring challenges: You may notice recurring challenges or patterns of behaviour that align with ADHD. Although lifestyle adjustments and behavioural interventions can help, an evaluation for ADHD may be necessary.
Impact on mental health: ADHD can often coexist with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. If ADHD is not managed, it can make mental health issues worse. It's important to get a diagnosis and the right treatment to improve your mental well-being.
Concerns raised by others: When family members, teachers, or colleagues express concern about problematic behaviour or difficulties, it may prompt consideration of an ADHD diagnosis. It's important to take such observations seriously and explore whether they align with your own experiences.