Introduction
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder includes persistent problems including difficulty paying attention. Hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour. ADHD in adults can lead to poor performance at work, low self-esteem, unstable relationships, anxiety disorder and other problems.
ADHD In Adults
Symptoms of ADHD can become more controlled with age but some adults continue to have severe symptoms that interfere with daily life. Some adults may not even know that they have ADHD, they just find everyday tasks a challenge. They may struggle to focus and stay on task. Miss deadlines, forget meetings or social arrangements. They may not be able to control their impulses and struggle with queues and waiting in traffic. They may have outbursts of anger and/or mood swings.
ADHD starts in early childhood and continues into adulthood. Some people do not realise that they have ADHD until they are an adult. In adults, hyperactivity can decrease but they can still struggle with impulsiveness, restlessness and difficulty paying attention.
Treatment for ADHD in adults is similar to children. A mixture of medication and therapy can be helpful.
Some of the symptoms an adult with ADHD might display are:
- Impulsiveness
- Problems Focusing on a Task
- Poor Planning
- Problems Multitasking
- Easily Frustrated
- Mood Swings
- Poor Time Management
- Excessive activity
- Restlessness
- Disorganised
- Struggles to Prioritise
- Struggles to Complete Tasks
- Suffers from Stress
- Suffers from Anxiety
- Has a Short Temper
What Should I Do If I Think I have ADHD?
ADHD is only diagnosed when symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily life. It can be difficult to get a diagnosis as an adult as ADHD symptoms can be similar to many other disorders. Many adults also have at least one other mental health condition such as anxiety or depression.
If you are an adult and you think you have ADHD and it is affecting your life please speak to your GP who can refer you for an ADHD assessment.
Other Issues Associated With ADHD
ADHD can be difficult to live with when it is affecting you in your daily life. There are many negative links to ADHD that you may not be aware of and having a diagnosis could help with.
People with ADHD have been known to be affected in the following ways:
- Unemployment
- Poor Work Performance
- Financial Problems
- Trouble with the Police
- Alcohol & Substance Misuse
- Problems with Relationships
- Poor Self Image
- Suicide Attempts
You may also suffer from other disorders alongside ADHD such as:
- Anxiety Disorders
- Mood Disorders
- Psychiatric Disorders
- Learning Difficulties
Conclusion
With the right help and support, ADHD can be managed and controlled in everyday life. It is important to seek the help of a GP if you think you are an undiagnosed adult with ADHD and it is affecting your life. Medication and/or therapy can help to control the symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and concentration.
To find out more about ADHD why not check out our 6 ESSENTIAL ADHD Blogs For Parents, Caregivers & Teachers!
https://blog.chewigem.com/6-essential-adhd-blogs-for-parents-caregivers-teachers/