The American Psychiatric Association (APA), revealed that about 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults go through a life with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, the National Institute of Mental Health suggests that the estimates might be higher than what APA reported. This is because many individuals with the condition are still undiagnosed.
Causes of ADHD
To date, the exact cause of ADHD is still not clear. However, much research is still being conducted to help know that matter. Below are factors believed to have an involvement in the development of ADHD in an individual:
- Genetics
- Environment
- Problems During Development
Risk factors
The risk of developing ADHD tends to increase if you have the following factors:
- If you have a blood relative with ADHD or any mental health disorder;
- If your mother drank alcohol, smoked, or used drugs during pregnancy;
- If you were born prematurely;
- If you were exposed to toxins like lead as a child.
8 Common symptoms for adults with ADHD
Treatment for adult ADHD is the same as for children who experience ADHD. This includes medications, psychotherapy, and mental health condition treatments. In addition, there’s no need to worry about the expenses for medications. There are several websites that give out discounts for ADHD medications. A vyvanse discount and many discounts on ADHD medications are available for the right patient.
It’s vital to remember that untreated ADHD can interfere with all aspects of an individual’s life. To get proper treatment, knowing the symptoms of ADHD in adults is critical. Below are the symptoms you should be aware of:
Lack of Focus
Lack of focus doesn’t just mean you have difficulty paying attention. It also means the following:
- Overlooking details;
- Being easily distracted;
- Not completing tasks or projects;
- Finding it difficult to listen to other people while in a conversation.
Hyperfocus
Besides being easily distracted, adults with ADHD also tend to experience hyperfocus. This means they tend to get too preoccupied with something that they become unaware of what’s happening around them. Also, hyperfocus is a way that can lead to ignoring those that are around you and can easily add to losing track of time.
Impulsivity
An adult with ADHD exhibits impulsivity in many ways, which include the following:
- Rushing through every task
- Interrupting other people during a conversation
- Acting right away without considering the consequences
- Being socially inappropriate
Forgetfulness
We tend to forget things occasionally. However, if you have ADHD, you forget things more often. This includes important dates, activities, or simply forgetting where you put something 5 minutes ago. If left untreated, it can cause career and relationship problems.
Emotional concerns
Living a life with ADHD is an emotional roller coaster. At one point, you become easily bored. But, on the other hand, you also tend to seek excitement out of the blue.
Most of the time, these emotions can be intolerable. It can even lead to mood shifts and depression. Moreover, if left untreated, it might complicate professional and personal relationships.
Time management concerns
Effectively managing their time is something that adults with ADHD find it challenging to do. Instead, they may do the following:
- Show up late during events
- Procrastinate on tasks
- Ignore tasks that they have no interest in
Disorganisation
Typically, if you have a busy life, you need to be organized to keep track of your tasks. However, those who experience ADHD have difficulties with their organisational skills. This means that it would be challenging for them to monitor their tasks and prioritize what needs to be put first in order to function efficiently during the day.
Restlessness and anxiety
If you have ADHD, it will feel like your internal motor doesn’t know how to stop. As a result, you desire to keep on moving and do stuff immediately. This often leads to restlessness and anxiety.
It’s vital to remember that anxiety is common in people with ADHD. The mind of an adult with ADHD tends to create worrisome events repeatedly. In addition, physical signs of restlessness and anxiety may include fidgeting.
An adult with ADHD may do the following actions:
- Tap their hands or feet
- Move around more frequently
- Find it challenging to sit still
- Frequently shifts in their seats
Diagnosis
Regarding diagnosis, doctors and psychologists will rely on the information you provide. This includes the type and number of symptoms you experience, when they started, how long you have experienced them, and how severe they might be.
Furthermore, in order to get diagnosed with ADHD, you need to have several symptoms that you believe have affected your relationships, career, and other vital factors in your life.
Takeaway
An adult with ADHD may find controlling the condition’s symptoms challenging. That is why diagnosis and treatment are very crucial. Thus, if you think you have the common symptoms of adults with ADHD, you should immediately visit a doctor to get a medical opinion.
Zuella Montemayor did her degree in psychology at the University of Toronto. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
