Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects people of all ages. While it’s often diagnosed in childhood, many adults may also have ADHD without realizing it. The symptoms can vary widely, making it difficult to identify, but understanding the key signs can lead to earlier intervention and support.
The most common signs of ADHD in both children and adults are listed below to help you better understand the condition and its impact on daily life.
1. Inattention: Difficulty Staying Focused
One of the hallmark signs of ADHD is trouble maintaining attention. People with ADHD often find it difficult to focus on tasks, whether at school, work, or during conversations. In children, this might manifest as daydreaming, frequently losing focus on homework, or not following through on instructions. Adults with ADHD may have difficulty completing tasks at work, forgetting to return phone calls, or struggling with disorganization.
Common signs of inattention include:
• Easily distracted by external stimuli
• Trouble following through on tasks or commitments
• Frequent forgetfulness
• Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
• Avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as reading or detailed work
2. Hyperactivity: Restlessness and Excessive Movement
Hyperactivity is another key symptom of ADHD. While it’s more noticeable in children, adults can also experience feelings of restlessness or an inability to sit still. Children with ADHD may fidget in their seats, talk excessively, or run and climb in inappropriate situations. For adults, hyperactivity may manifest as a constant need for movement, trouble relaxing, or feeling “on edge.”
Signs of hyperactivity include:
• Inability to sit still or stay seated, especially in situations where it’s expected
• Restlessness or difficulty relaxing
• Talking excessively or interrupting others
• Always being “on the go” or feeling restless
3. Impulsivity: Acting Without Thinking
Impulsivity refers to making decisions or taking actions without considering the consequences. This can lead to problems with self-control, decision-making, and relationships. Children with ADHD may have trouble waiting their turn, interrupt conversations, or act out in ways that seem reckless. Adults with ADHD may make impulsive purchases, struggle with emotional outbursts, or find it hard to wait for things in both social and professional settings.
Common signs of impulsivity include:
• Interrupting others during conversations
• Making snap decisions without considering the long-term effects
• Acting without thinking about potential risks
• Difficulty waiting for one’s turn in group activities
4. Emotional Dysregulation: Difficulty Managing Emotions
While emotional dysregulation is not an official diagnostic criterion for ADHD, it is a common experience for people with the condition. Individuals with ADHD may have heightened emotional reactions to situations, find it hard to manage frustration, or struggle with mood swings. This can sometimes lead to difficulties in relationships and workplace dynamics.
Signs of emotional dysregulation include:
• Feeling overwhelmed by emotions
• Getting easily frustrated or irritated
• Sudden mood swings or emotional outbursts
• Difficulty staying calm during stressful situations
5. Difficulty with Time Management and Planning
Individuals with ADHD often have trouble with time management and planning. They may struggle to meet deadlines, underestimate how long tasks will take, or fail to prioritize effectively. In children, this could look like procrastination with homework, while adults may find it challenging to manage work projects or daily responsibilities.
Signs of poor time management include:
• Chronic lateness or difficulty estimating how long tasks will take
• Procrastination and putting off important tasks
• Trouble prioritizing responsibilities or keeping track of deadlines
• Feeling disorganized and scattered
6. Problems with Follow-Through and Finishing Tasks
A person with ADHD might start multiple tasks but struggle to complete them. This can be particularly frustrating because there’s often an initial burst of enthusiasm and energy, but maintaining focus and motivation becomes difficult. In children, this might mean frequently starting homework or projects but leaving them unfinished. Adults may have similar patterns at work, where tasks are started but not completed.
Signs of poor follow-through include:
• Frequently starting new projects without finishing them
• Having a lot of unfinished work or tasks around the house
• Getting distracted and moving on to something else before completing the current task
7. Social Difficulties: Strained Relationships
Because ADHD symptoms like impulsivity and emotional dysregulation can affect interactions with others, people with ADHD may experience social difficulties. This could involve interrupting conversations, speaking before thinking, or being perceived as rude or inconsiderate. In children, this might mean frequent conflicts with peers, while adults may find it challenging to maintain friendships or navigate social situations.
Common signs of social challenges include:
• Interrupting or speaking over others
• Struggling to maintain focus during social interactions
• Difficulty listening or following conversations
• A tendency to overreact or misinterpret social cues
8. Sleep Disturbances: Trouble Falling and Staying Asleep
People with ADHD often have difficulty with sleep. They may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up in the morning. This can exacerbate other ADHD symptoms, as lack of sleep impacts mood, attention, and energy levels.
Signs of sleep disturbances include:
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep at night
• Restlessness or moving around a lot during sleep
• Waking up feeling tired or unrefreshed
• Irregular sleep patterns
When to Seek Help
If you or your child is experiencing several of these symptoms and they are impacting daily life, it may be worth seeking professional help. Dr. Charison can conduct an assessment to determine whether ADHD may be the cause. Please give Charison Counseling a call at 949-424-3084 to book an appointment.
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