ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, previously known as ADD, is classified as a neurodevelopment disorder. Until the last decade, it was common for ADHD to go undiagnosed. Recent studies claim nearly 75 percent of adults with ADHD do not realize they have it. The symptoms of adult ADHD are usually experienced in early childhood, progressing into the adult phase. What's more, the symptoms of ADHD in adults are often not as clear or straightforward as that found in children. For instance, adults with ADHD might experience less hyperactivity while continuing to struggle with difficulty focusing and feeling restless and impulsive. However, the helpful thing to remember is that it's never too late to get the right help and find support to manage your life better.
So, What Are Some of the Symptoms of ADHD in Adults?
One of the most common symptoms in adults with ADHD is difficulty remembering information, also known as a lack of working memory. It's not uncommon to find adults with ADHD struggling with organizing and executing tasks, completing work on time, and experiencing problems with focusing and following directions. What's more, high levels of impatience and taking unnecessary risks in activities by putting oneself or others in danger are also signs that may point to a diagnosis of ADHD.
However, the challenges related to this neurodevelopmental disorder are more widespread than mentioned above. Some of the coexisting conditions experienced by adults living with this disorder are as follows. Adults with ADHD are more likely to experience issues with depression, stress and anxiety, inability to control anger, low self-esteem, mood swings, low motivation and chronic boredom. Additionally, some adults may also have trouble with impulsiveness, problems in interpersonal relationships, difficulty keeping quiet, speaking out of turn, interrupting others or blurting out responses, procrastination, chronic forgetfulness and lateness. Finally, adults with ADHD are more likely to experience substance abuse or addiction problems.
What's more, a study conducted on ADHD found that its symptoms also had an impact on the physical health of the person living with this condition, where disorganization, lack of motivation, impulsiveness and emotional instability were linked to neglecting exercise, compulsively eating, an imbalanced diet and forgoing vital medication, thereby, adversely affecting physical health.
It's beneficial to keep in mind that, like any other mental health condition, the symptoms of ADHD too can manifest differently from person to person. For instance, some adults living with ADHD might find it easy to focus on work or otherwise if it is of interest or excites them. In contrast, some adults might struggle with focusing no matter the subject or the circumstance. Similarly, some adults living with ADHD might be withdrawn and even antisocial, while others could be very social. Where they might jump from one relationship to another.
If you're looking for help in managing some of these symptoms, working with a psychologist might be helpful for you. At Ward & Associates Psychological Services, we offer counselling in Sherwood Park. We specialize in individual counselling for adults, teens, and children and couples counselling and trauma counselling for first responders. We also offer online therapy for clients residing in Alberta. Contact us to learn more about our services or to book an appointment.