For those of us experiencing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD (also known as ADD), the intensity and lack of control can be disheartening. It is frustrating to live in an environment not designed for how our brain functions. ADHD affects our careers, academics, relationships, and self-esteem. People raised in a culture of personal responsibility often dismiss symptoms by assuming ADHD is not a real thing; that it is intentional, that people are not trying hard enough, or they need to pay attention. It can be a struggle to determine how much is ‘me’ and how much is ‘my brain’s design.’ We can help you fight this struggle and create an environment designed to work with your brain. You can be highly successful like Westjet launcher, David Neeleman, actor Jim Carrey, and Bill Gates of Microsoft, who have all stated publicly they have ADHD. There is hope.
What is ADHD in Adults Anyway?
ADHD is a neurological disorder. It is a change from the statistical average on how one’s physical brain functions. ADHD has three presentations in the DSM-V determined by which symptoms are present. Symptom categories are inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive. While these symptoms or traits are common, they are not the result of personality or individual failure. Thus, there must be at least five symptoms present for the past six (or more) months in at least two different settings to form a diagnosis. Symptoms would have been present since age 12, although they may have been unrecognized. While Adult ADHD may not be recognized until early or even late adulthood, the roots (and impact) of it are in childhood. By looking over time and different environments, we can determine that it goes beyond personality into neurological functioning.
What Does untreated ADHD Look Like in Real Life?
An Inattentive ADHD World
I wake up and discover I forgot a meeting! Rushing around to get ready, I can’t find my car keys or remember where I left the documents I need. I dig through piles of paper on my desk in a frantic effort until I finally find them. I have a sinking feeling. They’re unfinished because I skipped the frustrating part. I walked away from it thinking I would finish it later. I didn’t. I still can’t find my car keys. My spouse continually reminds me to return them to the key rack, but they’re not there!
At the meeting, I find my attention slipping without warning. I’m gazing at the wall, then out the window at the sky. My boss asks if I even care about this meeting or if something is wrong. I’ve had people ask this before: parents, teachers, and friends. I know they think ‘something is wrong with me.’ I’ve been thinking the same. Why does it look so easy for everyone else?
Symptoms of Inattention:
- difficulty staying focused
- easily distracted
- missing details or making careless mistakes
- disorganized
- misplacing items
- forgetfulness
- procrastinating
- being zoned out
A Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD World
I feel uncomfortable and unfocused if I’m not moving. I fidget during the meeting. I’m shifting from one position to the next, standing then sitting then rising again. I feel the need to touch or hold random things, including my shut off phone. I play with a pen and twist it in my hands just to be doing something. My co-workers ask if I’m upset about something, convinced that I am anxious. I feel ‘normal’; for me. I’m not worried, just bored. It helps me focus better on someone’s voice if I can move. I want to turn on some music so that I can concentrate better. I decide to take notes to show I’m listening. I doodle more than write. Again, they ask if I am paying attention. I’m sick of being asked that.
I go home and decide to watch a hockey game. The game is going well. I think my team might win this one. “Do you even care?” my partner demands, standing between me and the television. I’m confused, when did they start talking? Why are they so angry? What have I done wrong now? I feel like I missed something, but I know from experience that asking what I missed will make them more upset. I sit fidgeting while they rant on, trying desperately to catch up.
Symptoms of Hyperactivity and Impulsivity
- • seeking activities with intrinsic dopamine such as drama, conflict, risk, thrill, fright, or excitement
- fidgeting
- needing stimulation, being restless or talking excessively
- difficulty with quiet activities (too much or too little background sound)
- impulsive decision making
Testing For ADHD
There are several different ways to test for ADHD. The best method for you depends on the reason you are seeking answers. If you are curious, you could start with the website www.adhdadulthood.com or addtypetest.com. They have online tests you can fill out at home that do not provide a formal diagnosis. They will give you general information for personal use.
Acquiring accommodations at university (or elsewhere) may require a formal diagnosis. A DSM-V diagnosis by a psychologist is often satisfactory. Your family physician can refer you to a psychiatrist for diagnosis and prescription if you wish to try medication. If you think you may have Adult ADHD and want to know for sure, see me for an evaluation with a trained psychologist. If you’re not ready to take that step, email me any questions you may have at brent@happinessfactory.ca. I can help you decide which behaviours you want to change and help you implement strategies to make that happen. You can manage your symptoms and your life. Let me show you how.