In today’s fast-paced world, it’s common to feel overwhelmed and disorganized. However, if you frequently experience a sinking feeling paired with extreme levels of disorganization, inattention, and overwhelm, it might be time to consider the possibility of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Recent estimates suggest that approximately 10 million American adults and over 365 million people globally are affected by ADHD. The symptoms can manifest differently in adults, making it easy to overlook the signs, which can significantly impact your life and health.
According to neuropsychologist Dede O’Shea from Beth Israel Lahey Health, adults seeking a diagnosis often present with subtle signs rather than overt symptoms. The hallmark symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, may not be as noticeable in adults. This is often because individuals who were not diagnosed in childhood have developed coping strategies over time. Additionally, some symptoms mimic those of anxiety or depression, leading many to receive incorrect diagnoses initially.
It’s not uncommon to attribute feelings of stress or distraction to other factors, such as too much caffeine or lack of sleep. However, these could actually be signs of adult ADHD. Here are some of the more elusive signs to look out for:
Individuals with ADHD often struggle with procrastination, particularly regarding routine tasks that lack immediate rewards. The ADHD brain constantly seeks dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. When faced with mundane tasks, the negative feelings associated with boredom can lead to extreme avoidance. “What might seem like laziness is often a profound struggle with motivation,” explains O’Shea.
While starting tasks can be challenging, once engaged, individuals with ADHD may hyperfocus on a project for hours, neglecting other responsibilities. This intense focus can be mistaken for selfishness or lack of motivation. The inability to switch tasks is often linked to dopamine levels—once engrossed in a task, the dopamine boost makes it hard to transition to something else.
Adults with ADHD are prone to impulsive financial decisions, such as making unplanned purchases to stimulate dopamine levels. This behavior can stem from deficiencies in the basal ganglia, which are responsible for evaluating emotions and risks. Consequently, individuals may struggle to follow a budget or plan for future expenses.
Time management can be a significant challenge for those with ADHD, often leading to a phenomenon known as time blindness. This condition makes it difficult to accurately perceive time and estimate how long tasks will take. “You might think you have plenty of time and end up rushing,” warns O’Shea, highlighting the potential for chronic lateness.
Research indicates a strong correlation between ADHD and irregular eating patterns, including binge eating and forgetting to eat altogether. This may be influenced by impaired brain activity related to emotional regulation. The struggle to maintain steady eating habits can lead to using food as a coping mechanism for emotional distress.
While not exclusively indicative of ADHD, sleep issues are common among adults with the disorder. Impaired activity in the reticular activating system can hinder sleep regulation. Those with ADHD may experience disruptions in their circadian rhythms, leading to conditions like delayed sleep phase disorder.
Individuals with ADHD often face slower processing speeds, impacting their ability to make decisions. This isn’t a sign of indecisiveness; instead, it reflects the need for more time to weigh options and consider potential outcomes. “This process can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to arrive at a conclusion,” says Louk.
Restlessness is another subtle indicator of adult ADHD that can easily be misattributed to external factors, such as stress or caffeine intake. Adults may fidget, pace, or struggle to sit still during calm activities like watching a movie.
Adults with ADHD may dominate conversations, often feeling compelled to share their thoughts and ideas without realizing they’re overwhelming others. An official ADHD diagnosis can help individuals understand their behaviors and begin to rebuild their confidence and motivation.
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis can be transformative, offering clarity and a structured approach to managing symptoms. Treatment options typically mirror those for childhood ADHD and may include medication, psychotherapy, and strategies for improving organization and daily functioning.
As O’Shea notes, “Gaining clarity from an ADHD diagnosis is the first step toward regaining control over your life.” If you recognize these signs in yourself, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional for an evaluation.
