Do I have ADHD?
New year, new diagnosis? Thinking a lot about whether your disorganization, or hyperactivity might be more than just forgetfulness or the jitters? Is google telling you it might be ADHD, and this diagnosis might help you better understand yourself and make your whole year feel better. Although it is not recommended that you diagnose yourself, it can be helpful to understand the symptoms of ADHD (formerly called ADD) so that you can decide what steps to take next. Understanding yourself and your diagnosis can be a big step in accepting yourself.
What are the symptoms of adult ADHD?
The symptoms fall into three major categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and a combination of both symptoms.
Inattention:
Lacks attention to detail
Difficulty maintaining attention
Difficulty listening when spoken to directly
Challenges following instructions and completing tasks
Poor organization
Difficulty maintaining sustained attention
Losing things
Easily distracted
Forgetful in daily activities
Hyperactivate:
Trouble sitting still (fidgets or squirms)
Leaving seat when you are expected to be seated
Feeling restless
Difficulty engaging in leisurely, quiet activities
Acts as though “driven by a motor” or always “on-the-go”
Excessively talks
Interrupts or blurts out answers
Difficulty waiting your turn
Intrudes or interrupts conversations
Combined Type:
Numerous symptoms in both categories
If you felt that some of these symptoms are getting in the way of you living a full and productive life it is important to take the next steps. Knowing what to do next can be difficult. Keep an eye out next week for a blog post on what to do once you think you have ADHD. If you want to take a step before next week, reach out to Dr. Branda to understand how she or members of her community can help you. You do not have to manage your ADHD alone, book an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Rebecca Branda, Psy.D. today.