Could It Be ADHD?
Do you think you might have ADHD? Does your child, sibling, or parent have it? Maybe some of the information here has you wondering, “Could it be…?” Maybe it’s time to find out.
The hyperactivity that can come with ADHD fades further with age. However, the symptoms of ADHD in adulthood still have a significant impact on a person’s life and relationships, both at work and at home.
Common symptoms and behaviours of ADHD in adults:
- Unable to pay attention for a period of time
- Easily distracted by things around you
- Unable to pay close attention to details
- Over-focusing and being unable to refocus your attention
- Making careless mistakes
- Poor time management
- Messy and disorganized
- Forgetting or struggling to complete tasks
- Frequently losing keys, wallet, sunglasses, cell phone, etc.
- Difficulty managing finances
- Fidgeting, finger drumming, leg shaking, etc.
- A feeling of internal restlessness
- Feeling that your mind is racing
- Talking too much or at inappropriate times
- Interrupting or blurting out things
- Problems with driving (speeding tickets, serious accidents, license revoked)
- Frequent accidents/injuries, due to recklessness or not paying attention (e.g., while playing sports)
- Making impulsive decisions (quit job, max out credit cards)
- High-risk activities (abuse drugs and alcohol, risky sex)
- Low self-esteem, feelings of underachievement
- Relationship issues, difficult social interaction, trouble seeing effect on others
ADHD IN ADULT STUDENTS
ADHD can affect students of any age, including those in college or university as well as adult students returning to complete their high school diploma.
- Post-secondary students with undiagnosed ADHD often find that they were able to cope in elementary or high school. This is likely thanks to the environmental structure and support they received while living at home.
- However, at this higher level of education, increased freedom, lack of structure, and additional strain on their attention can make it difficult or impossible to succeed.
- The symptoms and challenges faced as students in their adolescent/teen years are now amplified and may need to be addressed for them to succeed.
Understand Your Treatment Options
Wondering what happens next when you know that it’s ADHD? Find out more about the different treatment options and support available.
Take steps to make a plan
Coping Strategies for Adults with ADHD
ADHD can affect all areas of an adult’s life, but learning some new skills and strategies makes it possible to manage ADHD symptoms and improve daily habits.
TIPS TO HELP ADULTS ADAPT
Need Help Talking to Your Doctor about ADHD?
Are you exploring a possible ADHD diagnosis? Or have questions about your current ADHD treatment plan? Our Doctor Discussion Guides can help you get the conversation started.
Doctor Discussion Guides