Are you an adult wondering whether you might have AD/HD?
Or were you recently diagnosed and wondering where to begin in understanding and managing your diagnosis?
As a WEB-MD article states:
The conventionally used diagnostic criteria for ADHD, including the most common symptoms, were developed based on how the condition shows itself in children.
These symptoms include forgetfulness and excessive daydreaming, as well as an inability to sit still, or constant fidgeting with objects.
Yet many experts think adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms manifest themselves differently and more subtly. This can make it difficult to recognize and diagnose adult ADHD.
It takes a qualified professional to make a definitive diagnosis of AD/HD, as similar symptoms can have varied and unrelated causes. However, understanding common symptoms of ADHD in adults can be helpful in knowing whether to seek a diagnosis as well as how to approach managing its challenges.
The same WEB-MD article suggests that the following ten symptoms may be tips to the possible presence of adult AD/HD:
- Difficulty Getting Organized
- Reckless Driving and Traffic Accidents
- Marital Difficulties
- Extreme Distractibility
- Poor Listening Skills
- Restlessness, Difficulty Relaxing
- Difficulty Starting a Task
- Chronic Lateness
- Angry Outbursts
- Prioritizing Issues[/Challenges]
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, an excellent adult AD/HD screening test, in two versions (6 and 18 questions) and multiple languages, can be found at the following website: http://www.hcp.med.harvard.edu/ncs/asrs.php If your screening test points to AD/HD, you may want to consult a specialist for a formal diagnosis.
Want to learn more? WEB-MD has put together several slideshows about adult ADHD that can help adults beginning to grapple with ADHD symptoms:
As the first slideshow suggests, working with an ADHD coach can be helpful! Coaching is an intervention that can provide education and empowerment as well as support the development of skills and strategies for success. Contact me for a free half-hour consultation!