what are the symptoms of adult adhd?

Answer 1

I will list the symptoms for you. This is such a tough one. I was told by a "Dr" that I had this and you know, I think I might because I find it very difficult to focus and pay attention and keep organized. I basically decided that I would never know for sure, but that I would never try and use it as an excuse. I dont take medication and I totally support those that want to, but for me, I find that I just try to make my life as simple and calm as possible and that helps. Keeping organized is probably the best thing you can do for your self and choose and occupation where it doesnt matter if you have a wandering mind. Its no reason not to have a great life!

Heres your list

IV Criteria for ADHD
I. Either A or B:

Six or more of the following symptoms of inattention have been present for at least 6 months to a point that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

Inattention

Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.

Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.

Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).

Often has trouble organizing activities.

Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).

Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).

Is often easily distracted.

Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

Hyperactivity

Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.

Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.

Often runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).

Often has trouble playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly.

Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor".

Often talks excessively.

Impulsivity

Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.

Often has trouble waiting one's turn.

Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).

Some symptoms that cause impairment were present before age 7 years.

Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (e.g. at school/work and at home).

There must be clear evidence of significant impairment in social, school, or work functioning.

The symptoms do not happen only during the course of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Schizophrenia, or other Psychotic Disorder. The symptoms are not better accounted for by another mental disorder (e.g. Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dissociative Disorder, or a Personality Disorder).

Based on these criteria, three types of ADHD are identified:

ADHD, Combined Type: if both criteria 1A and 1B are met for the past 6 months

ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Type: if criterion 1A is met but criterion 1B is not met for the past six months
ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: if Criterion 1B is met but Criterion 1A is not met for the past six months.

Answer 2

All of the above answers are really great!! However Concentration in an area you like might not be a problem - But if you are really trying in another area that you do not like as much - and try as you might - you keep getting distracted - this is a symptom. Also if presented with alot of different tasks at once - An adult with ADHD might become very anxious and almost shut down - and not be able to do any of the tasks (System overload) - or they will pick the task with the least urgency because it is easier to do - the others might cause more anxiety at that moment to an Adult with ADHD) take it from one who knows.
Another symptom is starting tasks and constantly switching tasks midstream because you lost focus. For EX: You are doing the wash and bring half your wash upstairs with every intention of going right back for the other half - but you see something in the other room that needs to be taken to the garage so you do that and while in the garage you do something else and so on... and about an hour later - you remember your other half of laundry waiting to be put away.


Make yourself lists/time frames to get things done - this helps alot!!

Answer 3

Take a look at the link below. The webpage lists the DSM IV diagnostic criteria for adult ADHD. (DSM IV = Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, version four. Remember--ADHD is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

(The DSM IV is the gold standard for diagnosing psychological and psychiatric disorders--phobias, depression, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorders and more--in other words, everything! Basically, if the diagnosis is primarily related to the mind, the brain and/or brain chemistry, it's in this book.)

Answer 4

Basically a lack of ability to focus mentally or concentrate on one thing for any length of time.

A couple of natural remedies worth trying are pycnogenol and magnets (see references below)

Monavie juice has helped some people (anecdotal reports)
Allopathic medications work well too. Take as directed.

Answer 5

usually adult adhd is a carry over thing--do research on the net there is a wealth of information out there.

Answer 6

I have ADD the only way I can say is that I was all over the place I could not do one thing at a time. My head was so busy with things run though my mind and with all the answers I was always tried and mentally tried too.

Answer 7

Not being able to finish projects timely
Horrible time management in general
Moody
Don't take responsibility seriously
Thinking is like trying to watch 10 TV's all at the same time, all on different shows
Can't stay focused

Answer 8

For some quick information check out http://addadhd.suite101.com

Answer 9

will on on them i think can stay on track like when i start something i forget and do something else fell like going nuts sometimes