Many Adults Have ADHD But Don’t Even Know It, Here Are The Signs To Look For
ADHD signs to look for in adults include procrastination, impulsivity, loosing things regularly, restlessness, agitation, the inability to feel satisfied, and more.
The term, ADHD, known as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, gets thrown around a lot by parents and educators when they come in contact with a particularly challenging child. Whether or not it’s really ADHD is another issue. But, millions of adults do have ADHD that has never been diagnosed. Many adults consider themselves as having negative “personality traits” or know they have some type of mental health issue, however, many don’t know they actually have ADHD.
According to HuffPost, 4% of adults in the U.S. or 8 million people, are actually diagnosed with ADHD every year. Mental health issues, such as ADHD and depression, can have far-reaching effects on an individual’s life.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to help manage the symptoms and lead a more balanced life. Mental health gyms provide an opportunity for individuals to take control of their mental health by providing therapeutic exercises that improve cognitive functioning and build resilience.
There are a number of common personality “tics” that folks say they have, but they may have ADHD. Treatment is available so if these tics become intrusive and keep you from living a full life, it’s important to get diagnosed and talk with a professional.
Some of these personality traits that can signal ADHD are:
- Procrastination: Putting tasks off because it feels insurmountable to start
Repeatedly losing things: A lack of attention to detail folks misplacing keys, wallets, phones, etc. - Impulsivity: Doing things without thinking them through or considering the consequences.
- Restlessness and agitation: Feeling unable to sit still for long periods of time.
- Hyperfocus: Focusing on something so intensely that you neglect things around you.
- Struggling with forgetfulness: This happens when you start on one task, then start another one without finishing the first. This occurs simply because you forget to finish.
- Fluctuating between feeling understimulated or overstimulated: It is hard to find a balance.
- Inability to connect with a partner: Those with ADHD may have a tough time being in a relationship because they can be overly sensitive or have a hard time judging when the other person needs attention.
ADHD is complex and individualized care plans are the best way to help manage symptoms. With medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, individuals can take control of their mental health and lead a more balanced life.
It is important to remember that ADHD is highly treatable, so there’s no need to suffer in silence. If you feel like you may have adult ADHD, talking to a mental health professional can be the first step to getting the help you need.
Interestingly, some adults have found it helpful to listen to “brown noise.” It reportedly helps those with ADHD feel calm. Brown noise is basically every sound the human ear can hear mixed together. It has become so popular that Spotify has made playlists.
It’s certainly worth a try if you feel like it could help. Finding support is also key to managing ADHD symptoms. Support groups can be very beneficial to those who have been newly diagnosed and are struggling with their diagnosis.
