ADHD has 3 core symptoms:
- Inattention
- Impulsivity
- Hyperactivity
Adults with ADHD tend to be disorganised, restless, have trouble concentrating and are easily distracted. Some adults with ADHD can focus intently on activities they enjoy or find interesting – the ability to hyperfocus.
Signs and symptoms of adult ADHD include:
- Trouble concentrating and staying focused
- Hyperfocus – become absorbed in tasks that are stimulating and rewarding
- Disorganization and forgetfulness
- Impulsivity – difficulty inhibiting behaviors, comments, and responses
- Emotional difficulties – especially anger or frustration
- Hyperactivity or restlessness – as if driven by a motor
If ADHD goes undiagnosed and untreated it can cause problems in many areas of a persons life, including health issues, relationships, work and financial difficulties.
Diagnosis
ADHD is an ‘invisible’ disability that shows up inconsistently. It was considered the most under- and over-diagnosed condition in the official diagnostic manual (DSM-IV-TR, 2000), which is to say that many adults and children are told they have it when they do not, and many, many more have ADHD and have not been identified. Individuals with undiagnosed ADHD may struggle with physiological, cognitive and emotional experiences.
Diagnosis for ADHD should be carried out by mental health professionals who specialise in the condition, eg, clinical psychiatrists/psychologists/neurologists.
A complete diagnostic assessment should include a full health history interview, education reports, information from loved ones, symptoms review and screening tests.