The article is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.
Every human is unique, set apart by our personalities, interests, and even our physical features. Some people like being different from other people, while others are focused on fitting in. For kids with neurodevelopmental disorders, being “different” may be a fact of life that they’ve known since they were little.
It’s important to recognize how ADHD can affect different people, as having a well-rounded understanding of this disorder can promote inclusivity and acceptance. In this article, we’ll cover the signs and symptoms of ADHD, the process of receiving a diagnosis, and how to find professional support for this condition.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a common neurodevelopmental disorder often diagnosed during childhood. Individuals with ADHD typically experience high levels of hyperactivity as well as impulsive, restless behaviors. Although ADHD can be managed with therapy and medication, it’s a chronic and debilitating condition that can affect a person’s academic performance, interpersonal relationships, professional endeavors, and daily functioning.
Signs And Symptoms Of ADHD
The most common symptoms of ADHD include difficulties with sitting still, paying attention, and controlling one’s emotions. However, the following are some other signs and symptoms that may be present:
- Difficulty waiting for one’s turn: Impatience can be a key symptom of ADHD, causing these individuals to struggle to wait their turn in line. This can be particularly true if they’re excited about what they’re waiting for.
- Carelessness: People with ADHD may have trouble recognizing the potential consequences of their actions, causing them to be careless with their words or behaviors.
- Excessive talking and interruption: Some people naturally talk more than others, but people with ADHD often interrupt during conversations, struggle to listen to other people, and tend to overshare.
- Restlessness and fidgeting: Sitting still can be difficult for those with ADHD, especially when they’re forced to do so in a quiet or calm environment.
- Trouble concentrating: Many people with ADHD struggle in school or at work because they simply can’t pay attention to what’s happening. Boredom and lack of stimulation may cause them to lose focus, hurting their performance and productivity.
- Forgetfulness: While everyone forgets things from time to time, ADHD makes forgetfulness a more common occurrence.
- Getting bored easily: People with ADHD need to be regularly stimulated; if they aren’t, they’re prone to get bored very early on.
- Problems with listening: ADHD can lead to interpersonal problems since this condition causes people to struggle with important tasks like listening.
- Speaking or behaving without thinking: Because people with ADHD struggle with impulsivity, they often have trouble thinking through situations before responding to them. This can cause them to say or do things they later regret or don’t really mean.
- Being disorganized: Disorganization can be a problem for those with ADHD, especially when it comes to school or their workplace. Clutter can be common for them, which experts say may reflect a disorganized mind.
- Struggling to make decisions: Indecisiveness, also termed “analysis paralysis” can be a common symptom among those living with ADHD. These individuals may overthink their choices, especially when there are too many of them, leading them to struggle to settle on just one option.
- Enjoying novel experiences and concepts: The brains of people with ADHD are usually drawn to novelty, whether that means thinking about new concepts, trying new activities, or chasing new thrills.
- Daydreaming: Especially when bored, people with ADHD can be prone to daydreaming, even for hours on end, making it difficult to stay present and focused.
- Compulsive spending: ADHD can make it difficult to avoid overspending, as impulsivity is one of the biggest struggles faced by people with this condition.
ADHD runs on a spectrum, meaning that some people may have more severe symptoms than others. Recognizing these individual differences can help ensure that everyone is appreciated for the unique qualities they bring to the world.
Getting An ADHD Diagnosis
No single test or assessment can determine whether or not an individual has ADHD. However, a mental health professional like a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist can offer a diagnosis after conducting multiple evaluations and screening methods.
The screening process may include learning more about the individual’s personal history, assessing which symptoms are present now, asking questions about the person’s behavioral patterns, testing for any other underlying mental health disorders, and even ordering a physical exam. Qualified professionals will want to get a full picture of the situation before giving a diagnosis of ADHD, as misdiagnoses can create further difficulties without solving the main issue.
Although they can’t provide clients with a diagnosis, BetterHelp offers online therapy for neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD, which may be useful for those who prefer to get help from the comfort of their homes.
Coping With ADHD
Many individuals work with a mental health professional to come up with an appropriate and effective treatment plan for ADHD, which typically involves a combination of medication and therapy. Other coping strategies that can be helpful include lifestyle changes like exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep at night.
It’s important for people with ADHD to find hobbies and activities that give them a creative outlet and allow them to express themselves and their emotions. Staying organized, practicing time management, and eliminating distractions at home and work are all practical tips for making the most of life while living with this disorder.
It’s never too late to reach out for help if you believe you or a loved one has ADHD. Professional intervention and support can lead to greater happiness and a higher quality of life, something that every person with ADHD is deserving of.
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