Severe ADHD Symptoms
People suffering from ADHD tend to be hyper-focused on subjects they find interesting or fun. They may also be prone to mood swings as well as a low tolerance to frustration.
Doctors will study the person's family history and history, particularly when they are children. They also speak to parents and read school reports.
They will assess symptoms for both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, as well as a lack of motivation.
1. Difficulty Focusing
People suffering from ADHD frequently have difficulty concentrating particularly in tasks that are boring or seem tedious. It's a problem that can cause anxiety, low self-esteem and difficulties at work, home, and school. In some instances the difficulty in focusing reflects undiagnosed severe adult ADHD symptoms.
Untreated, severe adult ADHD symptoms can make it difficult to manage obligations, stay organized and stick to plans and stay calm when stressed. Many adults suffering from severe ADHD or undiagnosed ADHD suffer for many years without receiving the help they need. During this time they might have been referred to as lazy, slackers, or a bunch of snobs by their peers. In some instances, they've compensated for their inability to focus by using tools such as procrastination and making last-minute decision. But as the demands on their time have grown over the years and the demands on their time have increased, these strategies are becoming less effective leading to stress and even more problems with their daily 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 conversations. Their limited attention spans, and inability to stay on task can result in missed work appointments and misunderstandings.
In some cases, the inattentive symptoms of ADHD may be mistaken for an anxiety disorder, a learning disorder or depression. A mental health healthcare professional or health care provider should always assess and treat a person experiencing these symptoms.
A diagnosis of severe adult ADHD can allow you to receive the support and treatment you require to live a more pleasant and more productive life. Each week the ADDitude Spotlight focuses on a specific hallmark or unnoticed symptoms of ADHD to help you find out more about the signs to look out for and how to seek the help you need.
2. Hyperactivity
People who suffer from ADHD typically excel in creative fields, as brain functions can be altered to help them find unconventional solutions to challenges. However, these exact differences can also cause anxiety and restlessness. If not addressed, it can lead to stress and anxiety. The people who suffer from ADHD often feel overwhelmed by stressors of the day, and have difficulty with relationships.
When evaluating an individual for ADHD mental health specialists or health care professionals typically look at a variety of aspects. They consider symptoms, their severity, and any problems that they may cause. They might also conduct notes and look at the family history, educational and work experience. They may also ask about current or past medical conditions or medications the individual is taking.
A person suffering from severe ADHD symptoms might be impulsive or have difficulty reading social boundaries. They may be more likely to disrupt conversations, games or other activities without realizing that others might view their behavior as rude. They may respond to questions too quickly or have difficulty waiting for their turn. They might also have difficulty putting their hands down, are restless and can't be quiet or engage in leisure activities alone.
Experts don't know exactly why and how someone develops ADHD, but they do know that it's an inherited disorder that can run in families. They also believe that something happens to a person's brain's chemistry or structure during certain developmental stages. The good news is that medication and psychotherapy are effective treatments for ADHD. Adults suffering from severe symptoms can benefit from these treatments. They can manage their careers, relationships and even their lives.
3. Impulsivity
Everyone has trouble sitting down paying attention to details or controlling their impulsive behavior at times. However, for combined ADHD symptoms in adults with ADHD the problems are persistent and pervasive that can interfere with the workplace, school, home and social relationships.
Experts aren't sure why or how people develop ADHD. However they do know that children and adults may have different brain structure or chemistry. They also know that the disorder can be genetic and comes from either one or both parents. Some people, however, seem to develop it without a family history.
Impulsivity is among the three main symptom domains of ADHD and can lead to significant issues in the lives of people. Physically, it may manifest as a lack or control of movement or inhibition which causes you to interrupt others or engage in risky behavior. Physical impulsivity may be seen in an inability to inhibit the impulses to behave or to think before taking action such as overindulging in food, shopping or alcohol.
Additionally, those with impulsivity are unable to discern social boundaries in certain situations. They might be able to talk over others, make promises they are unable to keep, or have difficulty understanding their own emotions. They may have a difficult time putting off gratification or adhering to instructions and are often influenced by instant rewards, such as getting instant gratification when playing video games.
In extreme instances, impulsivity may result in poor financial decisions, problems in the workplace, or even abuse of alcohol or drugs. Through treatment, impulsivity can be reduced and symptoms reduced. There are many options to help, including medication, lifestyle changes and counseling. To get the best results, it is important to get a diagnosis from a medical professional who specializes in ADHD.
4. Restlessness
It is a common issue for those suffering from severe ADHD symptoms. It can interfere with getting to sleep, staying focused at work or maintaining relationships. The symptom is described as a failure to stay still or seated, squirming or wriggling in a seat, talking excessively and tapping feet or hands often. It can also cause an inability to engage in monotonous activities or a constant daydreaming habit, as well as an inability to cope with stress.
Adults may also be affected by hyperactivity and impulsivity. The symptoms may alter as the child reaches adulthood. ADHD symptoms can be influenced by the person's sexuality or family background.
In addition, a person with ADHD may also have other issues 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 impact how severe ADHD symptoms are.
A doctor can determine if someone has severe ADHD by assessing the severity of their symptoms. They can discuss how often symptoms manifest and how they affect the daily activities of a person. They may then suggest a treatment plan that includes psychotherapy and/or disability accommodations to aid the person in managing their symptoms. They can also refer an individual to a specialist who will offer diagnostic tests and medications to treat the condition. This can enhance the quality of life of a person and help them reach their goals. They can live an enjoyable, well-organized and productive life. The more responsibilities they accept and the more demanding it can be for them to manage their symptoms.
5. Boredom
The inability to deal with boredom can be particularly troublesome for people with ADHD. Frustration and restlessness can be common symptoms of ADHD, making it difficult to maintain a balance between family and work obligations. Anxiety is also a concern due to the mind's tendency to replay worrying events in loops. The boredom of life can cause depression, which can worsen other issues like poor eating habits and abuse of substances.
People who suffer from ADHD have brains that react differently to excitement, novelty, and competition. Tasks that are boring or routine can lose their appeal quickly. Inattention can also be an issue, since bored people tend to forget things or make mistakes. It's easy for them be distracted by an inbound email, the conversation they hear in their neighbour's cubicle, or an idea that pops into their minds.
If you or your child complain of boredom often it's worth contacting an expert in the field to make an accurate diagnosis. If you don't treat the problem, it can affect your home and at work.
Managing boredom and understimulation is crucial for people suffering from ADHD, as is keeping an ongoing routine that includes different activities. For instance, you could try working from different places or change your music playlist. You might also be bored if you aren't rewards. Try to include small rewards or breaks into your routine. Try making boring tasks into mini-games like estimating how you get your laundry folded or how many things you can complete in a certain amount of time. Don't be afraid to speak to your teacher or boss about your struggles. They may be willing and able to make accommodations for you at work or school.