ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a developmental disorder that can affect both children and adults. The symptoms of ADHD can interfere significantly with an individuals daily activities and relationships. In adults, the main features of ADHD may include difficulty paying attention, impulsiveness, and restlessness. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can change over time. Some specialists have suggested the following as a list of symptoms associated with ADHD in adults:
- Carelessness and lack of attention to detail
- Continually starting new tasks before finishing old ones
- Poor organizational skills
- Inability to focus or prioritize
- Continually losing or misplacing things
- Forgetfulness
- Restlessness and edginess
- Difficulty keeping quiet and speaking out of turn
- Blurting out responses and often interrupting others
- Mood swings, irritability, and a quick temper
- Inability to deal with stress
- Extreme impatience
- Taking risks in activities, often with little or no regard for personal safety or the safety of others – for example, driving dangerously
Diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be difficult because certain ADHD symptoms are similar to those caused by other conditions, such as anxiety or mood disorders. And many adults with ADHD also have at least one other mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. If any of the symptoms listed above continually disrupt your life, talk to your doctor about whether you might have ADHD.
