Severe ADHD Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD can hyper-focus on things that they find interesting or fun. They may also be prone to mood swings and low tolerance to frustration.
Doctors will study the person's family history and history, particularly when they are young. They will look over school report cards and talk with parents.
They will assess symptoms for both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, as well as a lack of motivation.
1. Difficulty Focusing
People suffering from ADHD often have trouble concentrating, especially on tasks that bore them or seem to be tedious. It's a common challenge that can cause stress, low self-esteem and issues with work, family, and school. In certain cases it could be an indication of adult ADHD symptoms.
Untreated, severe adult ADHD symptoms can make it difficult to handle the demands of life, stay organized and follow through with plans, and remain calm in times of stress. This is why many people with undiagnosed or severe ADHD struggle for years without ever receiving the support they need. Through the years, they've likely been labeled by others as lazy, sloppy or slackers. In some cases, they've managed to compensate for their inability to concentrate through tools such as procrastination, or making decisions at the last minute. However, as their responsibilities have grown over the years they've become increasingly ineffective leading to stress and even more problems with their lives.
Inattention, a sign of ADHD can also lead to poor listening skills. This can make it difficult for people with ADHD to stay on top of a conversation. Additionally, their limited attention spans and difficulties staying focused can lead to missed appointments and misunderstandings at work.
In certain instances, the inattentive symptoms of ADHD may be mistaken for a learning disorder, anxiety or depression. Therefore, a health care provider or mental health professional should always assess a person experiencing these symptoms and recommend appropriate assessments and treatment.
A diagnosis of severe adult ADHD will allow you to receive the assistance and treatment you need to live a more enjoyable and more productive life. Every week the ADDitude Spotlight highlights a different hallmark or atypical sign of ADHD so that you can know what to look for and how to seek the help you need.
2. Hyperactivity
People who suffer from ADHD tend to excel in creative professions because differences in brain function can help them find unconventional solutions to challenges. These same differences can lead to excessive restlessness or hyperactivity. If left untreated this can cause frustration and even anxiety. It's normal for people with ADHD to feel overwhelmed by everyday stressors and struggle with relationships, especially in the absence of a solid support system.
When evaluating a person for ADHD, mental health professionals or health care providers typically consider a number of factors. These include symptoms of the disorder, their severity, and any issues they could cause. They may also inquire about a person's past and assess their education, family and work experiences. In addition, they might ask for information about any medical conditions or medications that the person takes.
A person who has severe ADHD symptoms may be impatient, interrupt others frequently or have difficulty discerning social boundaries. They are more likely to intrude on conversations, games or other activities without realizing that others might view their behavior as rude. They might answer questions too quickly or have trouble waiting for their turn. They might also have difficulty putting their hands down, are restless and can't play quietly or do things on their own.
Experts aren't sure why or what causes ADHD. However, they know that it is a genetic disorder and is often passed down through families. They also believe something happens to a person's brain chemistry or structure during certain developmental phases. The good news is that medication and psychotherapy are effective treatments for ADHD. They can assist adults suffering from severe symptoms manage their lives, careers and relationships.
3. Impulsivity
Everyone has trouble sitting still, focusing or controlling impulsive behavior once at a time. However, with ADHD the issues are persistent and pervasive that can interfere with home, school, work and social relationships.
Experts aren't certain of the reason or how people develop ADHD. However they do know that some children and adults may have different brain chemistry or structure. They also know that the disorder can be inherited which means it can come from one or both parents. However, some people appear to develop it on their own, without any family history.
Impulsivity is one of the three primary symptom domains of ADHD and can lead to significant problems in people's lives. Physically, it may manifest as an inability to control or control over movement, for example, interrupting others or engaging in risky behavior. Impulsivity that is not physical can be manifested as an inability to control behavioral impulses, or to think before acting like excessive eating, shopping or drinking.
Additionally, symptoms of ADHD in adults quiz with impulsivity have a difficult time discerning social boundaries in certain situations. They can be rude to others, make commitments that they cannot keep, or have difficulty understanding their own emotions. They may have a difficult time delaying their desire for gratification or following directions and are often influenced by immediate rewards, such as instant gratification from video games.
In the worst cases, impulsivity may result in poor financial decisions workplace issues, or even abuse of alcohol or drugs. However, with treatment, it is possible to improve the symptoms of impulsivity and reduce its impact on your life. There are many options to help, such as medications, lifestyle changes and counseling. To get the best results, it is important to seek a diagnosis from a health care specialist who is specialized in ADHD.
4. Unrest
The issue of restlessness can be a major concern for people suffering from severe ADHD symptoms. It can be difficult to sleep, focus at work or maintain relationships. The symptom is identified by the inability to sit or remain still, squirming in the chair, talking too much and constantly tapping feet or hands. This can also lead to an inability to engage in monotonous activities, frequent daydreaming, and an inability to handle stress.
While hyperactivity and impulsivity are more common among children with ADHD Adults are susceptible to these symptoms as well. However, the symptoms could look different as they grow into adulthood. The gender of a person's partner, family history, and medical issues can influence their ADHD symptoms.
In addition, a person with ADHD might have other conditions that are co-existing with the condition. These include oppositional defiant disorders, conduct disorders depression or anxiety and tic disorders such as Tourette syndrome as well as substance abuse. These conditions can affect the severity ADHD symptoms are.
A doctor can determine if someone suffers from severe ADHD by evaluating the extent of their symptoms in multiple settings. They can discuss the severity of the symptoms and how they affect a person's day-to-day tasks. They can then recommend the treatment plan which includes the use of psychotherapy and/or disability accommodation to help the person manage their symptoms. They may also refer an individual to a specialist who can provide diagnostic tests and prescriptions to treat the condition. This can improve a person's quality of life and help them reach their goals. They can live more fulfilled, organized and productive life. The more they're accountable for, the harder it is to control their symptoms.
5. Boredom
The inability to deal with boredom can be a major issue for those with ADHD. Frustration and restlessness are typical symptoms, making it hard to keep up with family and work obligations. Anxiety is also a concern because the mind replays worrying events in loops. Depression can be caused by boredom that may result in other issues such as eating disorders and addiction to drugs.
The brains of people with ADHD respond to interest, competition, and new ideas in ways that other brains do not. In the end, tasks that are routine or boring can quickly lose their appeal. Inattention is another problem. People who are stressed tend to forget things or make mistakes that aren't their fault. It's easy to become distracted by an email or a word they hear in their neighbour's cubicle or a novel idea that pops up in their head.
If you or your child experience boredom often it's worth contacting an expert in the field to make an accurate diagnosis. If the symptoms are not treated, they can become more severe and affect your home and at work.
People suffering from ADHD have to manage the effects of boredom and understimulation. They must also maintain a schedule that includes new activities. For instance, you could try moving around or changing your music playlist. You could also get bored if you aren't rewarded. Try to incorporate small rewards or breaks in your daily routine. Try turning mundane tasks into mini-games such as estimating how you can fold your laundry in a short amount of time or how many things you complete in a set amount of time. Lastly, don't be afraid to discuss your issues with your boss or teacher who may be able to assist in making some adjustments at school or work.