According to the American Psychiatric Association, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults in the U.S. While ADHD mostly develops in childhood, most children end up outgrowing it. Those who do not outgrow it continue to suffer its effects through adulthood.
Several cases of ADHD in adults in the U.S. go undiagnosed and untreated. Untreated ADHD can interfere with many aspects of a person’s daily life, including work and relationships. Therefore, it is very important to recognize ADHD symptoms in adults so you can get proper treatment.
ADHD Symptoms in Adults
ADHD is a mental health disorder that affects your ability to think and act. If you have adult ADHD, you may find it hard to carry out simple tasks like following directions, focusing, remembering information, organizing tasks, or finishing work on time. Other symptoms of adult ADHD include:
- Excessive activity
- Restlessness
- Impulsiveness
- Hot temper
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Difficulty coping with stress
- Frequent mood swings
- Low tolerance for frustration
All of the above-mentioned ADHD symptoms in adults range from mild to severe. They can even change over time. It all depends on person to person. Unfortunately, they can cause trouble in many parts of life. Adults with ADHD who find it hard to manage their symptoms usually suffer at work or in relationships.
Since there is no cure for ADHD, the first step towards getting better is visiting a healthcare provider specializing in mental health, like a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist will not only diagnose your condition but teach you ways to manage your ADHD symptoms. Most people learn to adapt to their symptoms over time by finding their personal strengths.
ADHD Diagnosis in Adults
If you are experiencing any of the ADHD symptoms in adults mentioned in this blog, you can consult a psychiatrist or even your primary care provider who can help you get started. They may:
- Conduct a physical exam to ensure there are no medical problems that might be causing your symptoms
- Conduct blood work and additional tests
- Recommend psychological testing
- Ask you questions about your medical and family history
While mental health experts do not believe there’s a certain age at which you can first diagnose ADHD, they agree that nobody suddenly develops ADHD as an adult. For most adults, it continues from their childhood. Hence, when you see a psychiatrist, they might ask you about your behavior during childhood. They may also:
- Look at your school report cards for comments about behavior problems, poor focus, lack of effort, or underachievement.
- Talk to your parents to see if you had any symptoms during childhood.
There is little evidence that ADHD runs in families, but a psychiatrist might also ask if anyone else in your family has ADHD. This information can be helpful in ADHD diagnosis and future care.
Health One Family Medicine is here to help
ADHD in adults can interfere with everyday life. Why suffer any longer? If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of ADHD, please book an appointment with Health One Family Medicine. Our highly skilled and experienced healthcare providers will work to diagnose your condition and suggest ways to manage your symptoms. To book an appointment at Health One Family Medicine, visit https://www.healthonemedicine.com/or call (469)262-5762.