Are You Suffering From Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
If forgetting important dates, losing your wallet and constantly showing up late seem like normal traits of your life, you might not believe they are a problem. However, these behaviors could be a sign of adult ADHD.
ADD is more common in older adults than was previously acknowledged and is often overlooked by family physicians. Patients suffering from ADD often have multiple psychiatric disorders, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders and addiction issues.
1. You are having a difficult time staying focused.
If you are having trouble focusing, it could be a sign that something is affecting your ability to concentrate. You might want to talk to your doctor about getting tested for adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) if this is a problem for you. You can increase your focus by getting rid of distractions and taking medication to aid in concentration.
In adults, signs of ADHD are less apparent than in children. They can manifest as general restlessness or anxiety. Fidgeting happens when you cannot remain still, use your phone, or draw during meetings. These actions could cause you to miss important information or make it difficult for others to comprehend what you're saying.
You might also find yourself forgetting things, such as appointments, tasks, and other obligations. Perhaps you have a tendency to put off work and stay up late to finish school papers or working on a project the day before it is due. These habits may seem like normal personality characteristics that won't change however if they affect your relationships and work they could indicate that you have ADD.
3. You're always late
If you're always late and you find yourself making excuses, it could be a sign that you're suffering from an adult addition. Carmel Moore, a time management expert, says that people who are always late could be in a rush or driven by the desire to hurry. They also tend to engage the idea that it will take less time than it actually takes.
4. You Have a Hard Time managing your time
Many adults have carried this characteristic from the time they were children. It could be a personality habit that you can't change. Perhaps you put off responding to text messages or calling people back. You may be always late to work or for other reasons. If these actions are negatively impacting your life, they may be indicative of adult add. The delay in addressing issues could lead to anxiety and depression or even burnout.
5. You have a hard time keeping track of your time
You may believe that your issues with procrastination from high school have passed, but these patterns can linger into adulthood. If content are constantly losing things or leaving them out in plain sight this could be a sign you're in need of improving your organizational abilities. If you're always hitting the snooze on your alarm and then not feeding the family cat or putting off assignments until the last minute, it could be a sign you suffer from adult ADHD. They must be addressed before they cause damage to your relationships, career or mental health. Fortunately, help is available. You can get back on track with just a few changes to your routine!