Attention Deficit Disorder A to Z

ADD A to Z:
Your Guide to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Download Your Copy Today


 

ADHD Characteristics in Adults

By Erik A. Olsen
 

Although ADHD characteristics in adults and children are similar, you will discover in this article that there are indeed differences. First, some of the most obvious characteristics would include things like losing things such as important documents, car keys, a phone number, or even misplacing a simple cup of coffee. The person may then begin to forget daily activities, knowing there was something needing to be done but not being able to remember what it was. Soon, tasks are started but not completed, projects sit half finished, the individual has difficulty in following conversations or remembering what someone said, and motivation is a challenge.

The thing to remember when talking about ADHD characteristics in adults is that unlike Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has the “H” factor, being hyperactivity. With that said, ADHD characteristics in adults go beyond what was listed. Keep in mind that different adults present symptoms differently and at different levels of severity but all in all, you would expect to see constant movement, tapping the desk with a pencil, tapping the foot on the floor, doodling on a piece of paper, and so on. Additionally, this individual becomes bored easily. Typically, after starting one project, within 10 to 15 minutes, he or she is ready to move on to something new.

Other common factors associated with ADHD include restlessness after being inactive for a few minutes, or an increased interest in active or even risky type activities. If you find that you have some or all of these characteristics found in adults, then you might need to speak with a doctor about proper treatment. For the person living with ADHD, it is frustrating. Consider that other problems include interrupting someone while talking, blurting out thoughts without giving any thought to the words, becoming easily angered, living with a low tolerance for frustration, or worse, having low self-esteem. Of all ADHD characteristics in adults, this last one is by far the most devastating. These individuals feel inept even though they appear outgoing and confident on the exterior.

Remember that ADHD characteristics in adults are very taxing on the person who is trying to make a living. With problems reading, dealing with poor concentration, being clumsy, and then walking around not feeling good about oneself is a miserable way to live. However, once ADHD characteristics in adults have been identified, and the person goes for testing to get a firm diagnosis, then the process of getting better begins. In most cases, a confirmed diagnosis would lead to the person being placed on the correct medication, while also receiving special therapy. These two things coupled help calm the anxiety levels while improving the concentration and forgetfulness. With this, the person starts to feel better about him or herself and in time with ongoing treatment, life is again under control and better.
 

Also on the Web:

 


 No part of this article may be reproduced in full or in part without express written permission of the publisher.
 

Medical Disclaimer:
All of the information contained in the ADD A to Z web site and any associated electronic publications, to include electronic books ("e-Books"), emails, newsletters and links are provided for educational and entertainment purposes ONLY. Neither the FDA, nor any other medical or government authority has evaluated the information. Nor does the information presented always represent the consensus of most physicians. The information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor should it be used as a therapeutic modality or as a substitute for your own physician's advice.
  Click Here to Read Full Medical Disclaimer



Medical Disclaimer | Terms Of Service | Privacy Notice | Sitemap



Top of Page