What is Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

Jul 24

by Dr. Alyssa Killebrew | Jan 19, 2023

According to the DSM5, ADHD is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder and it is found in adults, children and teens. The primary symptoms are hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. In adults, the symptoms may be less obvious because the person likely has spent a lifetime using compensatory behaviors to get by in life. But difficulties with impulsivity, inattention, and poor planning often lead highly successful adults to seek treatment. The symptoms must be present in two or more settings.

If you have any of the following symptoms, you may be struggling with ADHD:

- - - overlooking details
    - difficulty focusing on long, lengthy readings or lectures
    - the mind seems like it is elsewhere and even in the absence of obvious distraction, getting easily side tracked
    - disorganized work
    - poor time management
    - avoiding activities that require sustained attention and mental effort
    - losing things important for task completion
    - fidgeting
    - inability to remain quiet during activities; climbing
    - physically on the go constantly
    - excessive talking; blurting out answers
    - trouble waiting in line; and interrupting others