While it’s normal to ocassionally forget things, daydream, lose focus, or act without thinking, or feel restless, it may also be signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. ADHDimpaires executive functioning and makes it difficult for a person to inhibit their spontaneous responses, including everything from movement to speech.
Some individuals with ADHD may be constantly in-motion, fidgety, or disrupting others around them. Other individuals with ADHD may sit quietly, while their attention is miles away.
There are three primary characteristics of ADHD: Inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity, though all three aren’t always prominent in one individual.
Individuals with ADHD may:
- Have trouble staying focused or get easily distracted
- Frequently forget or lose things
- Appear not to be listening when spoken to
- Constantly fidget and squirm
- Talk excessively
- Act without thinking
- Interrupt often, or say the wrong thing at the wrong time
- Have a quick temper or “short fuse”
- Have a hard time waiting (e.g., in line or in traffic)
Whether or not symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity are due to ADHD, they can cause problems if left untreated. Individuals who can’t focus, have trouble completing tasks, act without thinking, or experience hyperactivity can often find it hard to function optimally at work, in the home or in relationships. These frustrations can contribute to low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression as well as conflict in relationships.
Evaluation and treatment can make a dramatic difference in improving functioning. With the right support, you can get on track for success in all areas of life.
If you’re interested in learning more about ADHD evaluation or treatment, contact us today. We would be happy to share how we can help you achieve success and grow.