8 subtle signs of ADHD in adults
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New research found a significant increase in prescriptions for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medications since the pandemic, with a national average rise of 18% annually.
The research, conducted by Aston University and the University of Huddersfield and published in BMJ Mental Health, found that ADHD prescriptions in England grew from 25.17 per 1,000 people in 2019/20 (before Covid), to 41.55 per 1,000 people in 2023/24.
Researchers analysed data on five licensed ADHD medications in England, including stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate, dexamfetamine, and lisdexamfetamine, along with non-stimulants like atomoxetine and guanfacine.
Findings indicated that methylphenidate was the most frequently prescribed medication, while lisdexamfetamine saw the highest annual growth rate at 55%.
While ADHD is often associated with children, it’s important to note that the condition can persist into adulthood, often in ways that are harder to identify.
From frequent forgetfulness to feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks, here are 8 subtle signs that may help identify ADHD in adults, which may help them take the first step to understand and manage the condition…
1. Chronic disorganisation
“Some adults with ADHD struggle to keep track of tasks or items, leading to a chaotic environment,” highlights Dr Elena Touroni, a consultant psychologist and co-founder of The Chelsea Psychology Clinic.
2. Impulsivity
“The impulsivity difficulties often seen in individuals with ADHD include difficulties in turn-taking, impulsively saying or doing things without thinking through the consequences, as well as a tendency not to consider the risks of behaviour, and often having little regard for personal safety of themselves or others.” says Seb Thompson, clinical psychologist at Cygnet Health Care.
3. Difficulty focusing
Adults with ADHD are often perceived as daydreaming or ‘lost in their thoughts’ because of their difficulty focusing and staying on task.
“They will often find it difficult to sit and sustain attention for long periods and this is particularly the case when there is no immediate reward,” reflects Thompson. “Their difficulty maintaining focus can lead to unfinished tasks, missed details, and problems meeting deadlines.”
4. Restlessness
Restlessness is another key sign of ADHD in adults.
“An adult with ADHD may show signs of hyperactivity,” notes Thompson. “This could include being unable to sit still without fidgeting, excessive restlessness, finding the quiet to be uncomfortable, and difficulty engaging in tasks quietly.”
5. Procrastination
“This can present in putting off tasks or avoiding responsibilities, often due to feeling overwhelmed,” reflects Touroni.
6. Poor time management
“Some adults with ADHD are frequently late or underestimate how much time tasks will take,” says Touroni.
7. Low mood and self-esteem
“People with ADHD can often suffer with low self-esteem, depression and anxiety,” says Thompson. “People who get frustrated by their difficulties may stop trying at work or at school, or lose interest in their hobbies because they can’t sustain the attention to take part.”
8. Low frustration tolerance
“Some people’s frustration can turn to anger, and them displaying behaviours that may be considered disruptive,” recognises Thompson. “It often means that people with ADHD are considered to be ‘difficult’ when often the reason behind the behaviours that are disruptive are frustration and anger at not being able to do the things they want to be doing.”
When should you seek professional help?
“Diagnoses of ADHD are typically given by specialist ADHD assessment teams,” highlights Thompson. “If anybody is concerned, they could also speak with their GP who should be able to signpost them to the relevant service in their area.”
A diagnosis could be helpful on multiple levels.
“It could help explain to the person (and their family) why their brain works in the way it does,” says Thompson. “It can also be helpful in the sense that it can open the door for treatment whether this be pharmacological or psychological.”
