Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) isn’t just a condition affecting children; many adults continue to experience its symptoms, sometimes without realising it. At The Owl Centre, we believe understanding ADHD at all life stages is crucial for offering the right support. In this guide, we’ll explore how ADHD manifests in adults, the challenges it brings, and the unique strengths often associated with the condition.
Understanding ADHD in Adults
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by ongoing patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, affecting everything from work and relationships to personal well-being. While many individuals are diagnosed during childhood, others may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood, often after struggling with the symptoms for years.
Common Symptoms in Adults
Inattention
For adults, inattention might appear as:
- Difficulty Prioritising and Organising: Struggling to keep track of tasks and responsibilities, leading to missed deadlines or forgotten appointments.
- Time Management Issues: Frequently underestimating how long tasks will take or running late.
- Forgetfulness: Losing things regularly or forgetting daily activities.
- Easily Distracted: Finding it challenging to concentrate on tasks, especially if they aren’t immediately interesting.
Hyperactivity
In adults, hyperactivity often manifests less physically than in children:
- Restlessness: Feeling the need to move, even when it’s not appropriate, or having an internal sense of restlessness.
- Overcommitting: Taking on too many projects or tasks at once.
- Verbal Hyperactivity: Talking excessively or struggling to listen without interrupting.
Impulsivity
Impulsivity can present as:
- Impulsive Decisions: Making hasty decisions without considering long-term consequences, which can affect work or finances.
- Interruptions: Frequently interrupting others during conversations.
- Emotional Outbursts: Experiencing sudden mood swings or intense emotional reactions.
Different Presentations of ADHD
ADHD can present in different ways, and understanding these can help tailor the right support and interventions. Here are the three main types:
Predominantly Inattentive Presentation
This type is characterised mainly by inattention without significant hyperactive or impulsive behaviour. Adults with this presentation might:
- Appear daydreamy or easily distracted
- Have difficulty organising tasks and staying focused
- details of conversations or plans
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
Adults with this presentation may not always exhibit the obvious physical hyperactivity seen in children but might:
- Feel constantly restless or fidgety
- Act impulsively, making decisions without thinking them through
- Talk excessively or find it hard to wait their turn in conversations
Combined Presentation
This is the most common type and includes symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Adults with this presentation may:
- Struggle with a combination of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity
- Find it challenging to manage various aspects of life, from work to relationships
