How do I know if I have ADHD?

Many adults who have ADHD are not always aware they have it; they just know how challenging everyday tasks can be. ADHD includes a combination of persistent symptoms such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. By the time we reach adulthood, the hyperactivity may decrease, but impulsivity and difficulty focusing may persist. You may notice that compared to other adults, you feel disorganized, unable to regulate emotions, and/or unable to tolerate stress. You may find mundane tasks like paying bills, cleaning, and maintaining friendships very difficult or impossible.

What are some common symptoms of adult ADHD?

• Difficulty paying attention or remaining focused on details

• Making careless mistakes

• Difficulty listening well

• Seeming distracted to your loved ones

• Difficulty following instructions

• Inability to finish tasks or procrastinating

• Disliking activities that require continuous focus

• Losing things frequently

• Being overstimulated easily and frequently

• Unemployment and financial problems

• Frequently changing partners, residences, or jobs.

• Proclivity to accidents, injuries, and/or death due to unnatural causes or accidents
  

How does therapy help?

About 50% of people with ADHD have another condition(s) that they originally seek out therapy for, including anxiety, depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), substance use disorders, and learning disabilities. Because the symptoms of these comorbidities overlap, therapy can be helpful to deeply understand the parts of you affected by your ADHD and create acceptance and support around the shame associated that can come with it.

Are there positives associated with my ADHD?

Yes, of course! Those with adult ADHD often are high functioning and can develop skills to compensate for or to mask their ADHD. Those with ADHD also tend to be creative, spontaneous, empathic, energetic, and highly passionate in their interests!