The symptoms of ADHD
ADHD is a psychiatric disorder that consists of issues related to hyperactivity and/or inattention. This is where you will learn some of the symptoms you should look for that may indicate the presence of adult ADHD. There have been controversies about the validity of ADHD as a true disorder, but the scientific evidence from studies together with collective knowledge from clinical practice strongly support its existence.
To determine whether an individual is suffering from ADHD, there are a number of standardized tests which medical professionals will carry out, to determine the likely presence or absence of the disorder. Although it may be tempting for someone to take those tests online without the guidance of an expert, the test itself is not sufficient to confirm ADHD. There are two broad sub-types of ADHD, which are primarily inattentive or primarily hyperactive, though many will present combinations of both.
The symptoms that characterize ADHD include forgetfulness, being easily distracted, missing obvious details, poor focus (especially on mundane tasks), struggle to follow instructions and daydreaming to name but a few.
The hyperactive element of ADHD is characterized by various behaviors. If seated, a person who suffers from ADHD may fidget or move his or her legs. If they are not sitting, that person might be in constant motion, and find interaction with external stimuli difficult to manage. Hyperactivity is also characterized by over-talking which may or may not be rapid, and difficulties when it comes to activities and tasks needing quiet.
People who suffers from adult ADHD often act impulsively leading to problematic encounters and outcomes. For instance some will find it difficult to not interrupt other’s conversation or make statements that might seem inappropriate to the context. It is not the fault or intention of the ADHD adult who does this, but a consequence that is explained by executive functioning impairment.
For children with ADHD, some of these symptoms fade or disappear over time, but for those who persist with ADHD into adulthood, the challenges can be numerous. Attribution theory is about the tendency of people to develop explanations for what they experience to make sense of the world. For those that work with or have social relationships with ADHD adults, often they will attribute a bad behavior to the person rather than the underlying cause, especially if they do not know about ADHD. Interruptions for instance can be attributed to selfishness rather than the expression of a neurological deficiency. Some argue that ADHD has positive expressions, such as the ability to focus intensively on specific tasks, or natural enthusiasm.
Adults that suffer from ADHD are often advised to play to their strengths, which they may or may not be fully aware. With additional organizational and self-management skills, these strengths can be harnessed into successful and enjoyable activities. Adults with ADHD should not be stigmatized by society, but they can help themselves achieve greater things by exploring coaching, counseling and medication.
If you notice some of these symptoms within you or someone close to you, and want to learn about how coaching can help adults with ADHD set and achieve goals that play to strengths, why not enquire at adhfree.com. The site was set up by a high functioning adult with ADHD who has achieved business success and a satisfying home life using strategies, research and perseverance. They recommend that coaching is started once a independent medical diagnosis is made.
ADHD is a disorder that affects people in more ways than many imagine. If you suffer from adult ADHD and are looking for life coaching options from someone who has experienced ADHD, visiting ADHFree.com may be the best starting point.