What to Look for in ADHD
Knowing the common signs of ADHD in adults, children, men and women can keep people informed and encourage them to seek help. Here are some ADHD symptoms to look out for in yourself or a loved one regardless of age.
1. Inability to Concentrate
One of the most common signs of ADHD is the inability to concentrate. The inability to concentrate is characteristic of both presentations of ADHD, which the CDC labels as “Predominantly Inattentive Presentation” and “Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation.” People can also suffer from a combination of both.
Both presentations involve the difficulty to concentrate, albeit for different reasons. In an inattentive presentation, children and adults find it difficult to concentrate due to being easily distracted. In hyperactive-impulsive presentation, ADHD symptoms in kids and adults include restlessness that makes it difficult to concentrate.
ADHD signs in men and women will almost always include the inability to concentrate at work, school or home. For those wondering, “At what age does ADHD start?”, most experts agree ADHD signs start before 12 years old. This early presentation is why it’s crucial to be on the lookout for ADHD symptoms in kids like difficulty concentration as early as possible.
2. Fidgeting
Another common sign of ADHD is fidgeting. Studies show that fidgeting in adults and children might be a way to increase concentration.
Fidgeting can take several forms including:
- Leg tapping.
- Finger tapping.
- Rocking.
Fidgeting in adults can be a sign of ADHD symptoms just as it is in children. It’s important to note that fidgeting alone does not necessarily mean a person has ADHD, but when combined with other symptoms, it can be an indicator.
3. Forgetfulness
One of the most common ADHD signs is forgetfulness in daily routine, details, plans and other aspects of work, life and school. Forgetfulness is often associated with predominantly inattentive ADHD.
Studies show that women mostly present with inattentive ADHD, meaning they might show predominantly more forgetfulness as a symptom. Yet other ADHD signs associated with inattentive-type ADHD include:
- Trouble managing time.
- Inability to manage tasks.
- Lack of attention to details.
- Being easily distracted.
These signs might lead to other conditions, including self-esteem issues, anxiety and depression. It's important for people to understand that ADHD symptoms in adults and kids are in no way an indicator of intelligence or lack thereof, but rather a result of brain chemistry and structure.
4. Impulsivity
Impulsivity is yet another sign of ADHD most common in predominantly hyperactive ADHD. It can take on several forms including:
- Inability to listen to others.
- Blurting out answers before questions are completed.
- Interrupting others' conversations or activities.
- Acting without thinking of consequences.
- Not being able to wait their turn in activities or situations.
These impulsive behaviors can often lead to difficulties in social situations and relationships, as well as conflicts with authority figures. Perhaps this is why studies show that almost half of children with ADHD also have a comorbid diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).
Knowing how to distinguish between ODD and ADHD signs in kids is only half the battle. Getting the proper follow-up treatment and support for children with ADHD is crucial, especially when it comes to managing impulsivity. Adults with ADHD also deserve to get proper treatment and support in managing their impulsivity.
Knowing how to manage impulsive behaviors in children and adults can help both in academic and work settings. It can also improve relationships, reduce conflicts and help both men and women with ADHD lead a more fulfilling life.
5. Mood Swings and Emotional Dysregulation
A lesser-known but common symptom of ADHD in adults and children is emotional dysregulation. Experts agree that mood swings and feeling big emotions are often experienced by people with ADHD who have combined inattentive and hyperactive ADHD.
Since both men and women can suffer from combined ADHD, emotional dysregulation isn't limited to one gender group over the other. In children, emotional dysregulation can manifest as meltdowns, tantrums and outbursts of anger. In adults, it may present as difficulty managing stress or being easily overwhelmed by emotions.
It’s important for people to get help with emotional dysregulation as soon as possible. Knowing how to use coping skills can help people manage mood swings and stress at work, home and school.
When to See a Doctor
All of these symptoms can easily be confused with other neurological or psychiatric disorders. For those wondering “How do you tell if someone has ADHD?” only a trained mental health provider can offer an accurate diagnosis of ADHD. These common ADHD signs are a good starting point for concerned parents or individuals with possible ADHD.
If you suspect you, your child or a loved one may have ADHD, don’t hesitate to reach out to your primary care provider for help. Know that there are now treatments including therapy, medication and coping skills that can help people with ADHD live a healthy and successful life.
Looking for more information on healthy lifestyles? Check out our guide on gummy vitamins.