We've all felt distracted before, and many of us have even joked about having ADD when we can't study or don't want to be at work. But for some people, having trouble focusing and feeling restless are very real parts of their life that may mean they are struggling with ADHD.
Attention-deficit disorder (ADD) is now referred to as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), which is published by the American Psychiatric Association. This fifth edition update came out in 2013, and added some things to the long list of ADHD symptoms — namely, how the disorder can affect adults.
Since the disorder begins in childhood, that's what people most often associate it with. We hear "ADHD" and immediately think of the loud, energetic kid in elementary school who is totally out of control. But studies have shown that symptoms can persist into adulthood, according to DMS-5.org, and it rarely plays itself out in such a stereotypical way. In fact, many adults have ADHD and don't even know it.
ADHD can be split into two sections: hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, and inattention symptoms. Often times people only experience one or the other, which makes the disorder a pretty tricky thing to diagnose.
Both types of symptoms are included in the list below. If these symptoms seem to perfectly describe you, and they are really causing problems in your life, then speak with a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment options.
1. You're Having Trouble Focusing Or Concentrating
This is the most recognizable ADHD trait. Like I said, everyone feels distracted at times. But this is a lack of focus that makes your mind feel like it's somewhere else. It can make listening to a lecture, or a meeting at work, incredibly difficult. And this may, in turn, start to cause problems at work, according to WebMD. It can also affect your relationships, since people definitely notice when you zone out while they're talking to you.
2. You Feel Restless All The Time
If you were a hyperactive kid, then you may feel an "inner restlessness" now that you're an adult, according to Stephanie Sarkis, PhD, for Psychology Today. Of course you're mature enough to sit through a meeting at work, but you sure don't want to. While you're trying your darnedest to pay attention, you may find yourself fidgeting in your chair, or tapping your foot.
3. You Have Angry Outbursts
ADHD can lead to problems with self control, according to WebMD. So you might get mad really easily, or have trouble controlling your temper. It can leave you feeling like a crazy person. Because who snaps and throws their phone across the room when spellcheck gets a word wrong? Well, maybe someone with ADHD.
4. You Get Frustrated Way Too Easily
Most people feel frustrated when something goes wrong, or they can't figure something out, but this may cause someone with ADHD to have a complete meltdown. Even small frustrations can feel intolerable and bring about horrible mood swings, according to Healthline.com. So no, you aren't dumb or incapable. But you may have ADHD.
5. You Always Feel Disorganized
Lots of people are forgetful. But if you're constantly late for work, missing deadlines, and scrambling to prioritize your schedule, then you may be suffering from ADHD, according to Healthline.com. If you're dealing with this symptom, it can make work can feel like it's one hundred times more difficult for you than it is for anyone else. It can make you feel like you're under qualified for your job, when that's not the case.
6. You're Impulsive
Impulsivity can show up in a lot of different ways, according to Healthline.com. You may interrupt people during a conversation, say rude or inappropriate things in public, rush through your tasks, or do things without really thinking about the consequences. These symptoms may be pointed out by your family or SO who think you're being a jerk, even when you don't mean to be. Because you don't mean to be rude, it can leave you feeling kind of bewildered as to why they are mad.
ADHD can cause a lot of problems for the person suffering from it, so don't suffer alone. If you think you have ADHD, then go talk to a doctor for ways to help your symptoms.
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