Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that often starts in childhood. And as you grow into adulthood, the symptoms typically follow. But as an adult, ADHD symptoms may create different challenges than those experienced in one’s youth.
Symptoms of ADHD in adults like inattention, hyperactivity, and forgetfulness can become more than obstacles to be addressed at school. These symptoms can disrupt various aspects of adult life, including at home, at work, and in relationships.
So how does ADHD manifest in adult life? When looking at ADHD symptoms, it often helps to group them across two broad categories.
Inattention symptoms
Inattention means having trouble paying attention and having a mind that seems to wander much of the time. Some of the key symptoms of ADHD that fall under this category include:
- Having trouble paying attention to details, particularly when performing long, complicated, or tedious tasks
- Having trouble following instructions
- Having a hard time organizing activities and to-dos
- Making seemingly careless mistakes
- Having difficulty listening closely when speaking with someone
- Losing track of time and being late to appointments or meetings
- Frequently losing important items such as keys, wallets, or phones
- Being easily distracted by thoughts, sounds, or other elements of one’s environment
- Forgetting to complete daily activities or routines, such as paying bills or keeping appointments
Hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms
Many adults with ADHD find they often have excessive amounts of energy. They may act without thinking or have difficulty controlling their behaviors and impulses. These are considered hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms. Other symptoms that fall under this category include:
- Having a hard time sitting still for long periods of time
- Feeling restless much of the time
- Exhibiting fidgeting behavior, such as tapping one’s hands or feet or moving around in one’s seat
- Having difficulty enjoying quiet leisure activities
- Talking excessively
- Having a hard time waiting one’s turn, such as when in line or when having a conversation (this may involve answering someone’s questions before they finish asking them)
- Having a tendency to interrupt others
Do I have ADHD?
Many adults with ADHD don’t realize they have the disorder. They may think it’s normal to feel disorganized, rushed, or restless all the time. But if symptoms like those described above interfere with your daily life, consider speaking with a healthcare provider (HCP).
An HCP will ask you about the symptoms you have as well as any symptoms and related behaviors you may have had as a child. Once you begin to see how ADHD symptoms are manifesting in your everyday life, you can begin to take steps to manage them.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person typically has to exhibit at least five symptoms of inattention or five symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity across at least two areas of their lives (such as home, work, school, or in relationships with others). Some people may also have a combination of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms.
Treatment for ADHD may involve a combination of talk therapy and medications. The benefits of having your ADHD treated may include better focus and attention (which, in turn, may lead to improved performance at work and school), stronger relationships, and better overall physical and mental health.
Sources: Cleveland Clinic. Attention-Deficit/Hype... + 1
- Cleveland Clinic. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Adults. Last reviewed on February 15, 2023.
- National Institute of Mental Health. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults: What You Need to Know. Accessed July 31, 2024.
