Adult Signs of ADHD

As adults, people with ADHD are often not diagnosed and untreated. They might have a hard managing their responsibilities at work and at school, which can result in problems in their personal lives too.

A thorough evaluation usually includes having a partner, spouse or a family member speak with the individual about the history of ADHD symptoms and behavior.

1. You Can't Focus

People who have trouble focusing may be suffering from an ADHD diagnosis. They may struggle working or school duties, such as reporting on deadlines or writing reports. Their brains are easily distracted and have difficulty regulating emotions like anxiety, depression or rage. In addition they struggle to follow multi-step directions or retaining details.

ADHD symptoms are more prevalent in children, but can also be observed in adults. Many adults who are diagnosed having ADHD are surprised because they did not have symptoms prior to. They may have made it through college or beyond without realizing they had ADHD, but as they took on more demanding responsibilities--such as working full-time, raising a family, or managing their finances--the challenges they experienced became more pronounced.

A diagnosis of adult ADHD can be a great relief. You now understand why you've always struggled with focusing, and realize that it's not your fault. You can make changes to fix it and improve your life.

If you are suffering from ADHD, the most effective way to identify it is to consult an expert in health care who can perform an exhaustive evaluation and provide an accurate diagnosis. You can ask your doctor for an appointment or contact a local university hospital or medical school, or a graduate school of psychology to find out whether they know anyone who is competent. Some insurance plans list professionals based on their specialties and can assist you in finding the right one for you. You can also try joining an adult ADHD support group to receive recommendations from other people who have this condition.

2. You are always fumbling

If you find it difficult to sit still and have trouble focusing, fidgeting may be an adult sign of adhd. Many people believe that it's normal to fidget, but continuous fidgeting may be a sign of underlying problems like ADHD. Fidgeting can happen with any part of the body, however it is most prevalent in the feet and hands. It could look like drawing in a meeting, biting your nails or tapping your feet. It is not an ideal idea to be fidgeting while you are driving or operating machinery.

Adults who are hyperactive are harder to detect than in children. Certain people suffering from ADHD don't show overt indications of being anxious, but they feel constantly on edge or overwhelmed by the sheer amount of to do. They may barge in without knocking on doors, or interrupt conversations even if they're not invited. If you have hyperactivity that hinders your ability to concentrate or get good sleep, talk to a doctor about an ADHD assessment.

You can request a referral either from your doctor or via the website of the CHADD professional directory. If you are covered by health insurance, you may request your health plan to help you find a doctor who conducts ADHD evaluations. It is recommended to discuss your ADHD symptoms openly and honestly with your doctor. They should be aware of the extent of your symptoms and how they affect your life. If you aren't forthcoming with information, it could lead to an incorrect diagnosis or a treatment plan that isn't suited to your needs. A good doctor will analyze your condition and devise a treatment program that includes medication, counseling, and lifestyle changes. They may also suggest a support group for you to join.

3. You're Always Late

We all know someone who is always late. While it might be a source for laughter in certain social situations, the stress it causes for the people around them can be extreme. It can also be an indication that an adult has ADHD.

It could be that you are always late due to an overbooked day, the need to finish one project before starting another, or lack of planning (this is known as the "planning fallacy"). It could also be due to the fact that the person is in a state of impulsivity, and doesn't consider their actions before they act. For example, they may rush into rooms without knocking at the door or interrupting conversations without asking. This type of behavior may lead to strained relations and missed opportunities for the person and those closest to them.

Many people with ADHD don't recognize that their irritability is a problem or how it affects others. In some instances the person may be able conceal their symptoms at work or in social settings, but if they are constantly causing problems, it is important to discuss them openly with a qualified medical professional or mental health professional.

In the course of the evaluation, it can be helpful to talk with the non-ADHD spouse or spouse of those diagnosed as having ADHD to gain a better understanding of how the condition affects their lives. This can also help the non-ADHD person to develop a more compassionate attitude towards the person they are with and will help improve their relationship after the diagnosis is confirmed. A positive view of ADHD can help you keep from feeling embarrassed and shame.

4. adult adhd signs Unorganized

It is possible that you have trouble finding your keys or remembering important dates if you are a chronically chaotic. You may also be struggling to complete household chores or finish work tasks. These issues can lead to a loss of self-esteem and confidence in your abilities. If left undiagnosed, disorganization can have a negative impact on your work, personal relationships, and overall health. A diagnosis of adult ADHD can provide hope and relief, since it indicates that your difficulties are not due to a lack of intelligence or apathy.

In our society being unorganized or forgetful is often misunderstood as a flaw in character. It is more prevalent among females than males, and may be associated with other disorders such as anxiety or depression.

Adult hyperactivity is more difficult to detect than that of children who display it in obvious signs such as running and jumping. Adults with hyperactivity can manifest as restlessness or inability of sitting still. Hyperactivity may also manifest as a tendency to tap your feet or bite your nails.

The signs of impulsivity, a different sign of ADHD can include interrupting other people when they're speaking, acting without thinking and ignoring social norms. It could also manifest as a tendency for you to make decisions without considering the pros and cons or get into an activity without considering the pros and cons.

If you're unsure if your symptoms are caused by ADHD, ask your doctor to refer you to a specialist who will conduct an evaluation. You can also ask your insurance provider for a list of specialists in your area who are certified to treat ADHD. You can also contact local support groups, hospitals affiliated with universities, or graduate schools to find out if any professionals are familiar with treating adult ADHD.

5. You're not able to multitasking

A person with ADHD might have difficulty with multiple tasks at once. The reason is that the brain of a person with ADHD tends to get immersed in the task that is interesting to it, and is difficult to divert attention from this task. This causes a lack of ability to finish tasks, and it can lead to procrastination and a general feeling of disorganization.

This symptom may also manifest in the workplace when an adult is struggling to finish projects or maintain their productivity. Adults can jump from project to project, despite having many deadlines and work-related obligations. They may have trouble organizing their calendars or keeping track of important events like doctor's appointments.


Children are more active than adults. However, a person who suffers from ADHD might show signs of hyperactivity. They might fiddle with their fingers or hair during an event, or even doodle during the course of a meeting. They might also have difficulty staying focused.

Consult your physician about an ADHD assessment if you're having difficulty keeping up with your responsibilities, or noticing signs of hyperactivity. Your physician or a mental health professional can recommend a licensed healthcare professional who performs ADHD assessments for adults. You could also ask a friend or family member or a support group, or the benefits department at your workplace for suggestions.

It is important to remember that ADHD doesn't define your abilities and could be a positive thing in certain areas, like the ability to think creatively or be flexible. If you've been diagnosed with ADHD or other disorders, a professional will help you develop strategies and structures that will assist you with your symptoms and thrive at work and home.