Interesting Psychology Team
6 β Negative Self-Image
With forgetting things all the time and struggling to stay on task or to get organized, it’s easy for those with ADHD to feel like a failure. They start seeing themselves in a negative light because they’re already hyperaware of all their shortcomings.
Since they have trouble concentrating, and it seems like their school, work, and personal relationships are suffering, it’s hard to see any good because all the bad is amplified. They become fixated on their failures and underachievement.
And this negative self-image doesn’t make the situation any better. If anything, it likely exacerbates all the other related symptoms because when you feel crummy about yourself, everything else feels less meaningful as well.
7 β Emotional Concerns
Life with ADHD can feel like an emotional rollercoaster shifting in and out of depression, moodiness, and irritability. For those with ADHD, in a moment, they can find themselves bored out of their mind, so they seek out some form of excitement.
Only to later find out that what they thought would bring fulfillment was fleeting, and before they know it, they’re bored again. Another concern is emotional regulation.
While neurotypical people might be able to pause and reflect before responding to some sort of negative stimuli, it isn’t something that people with ADHD do particularly well.
This is also related to impulsivity and can have undesirable social consequences since it can lead to saying something that they might regret later.
8 β Restlessness and Anxiety
Adults with ADHD find it difficult to shut off that need to keep going and going. And this can become frustrating when they’re not able to do something right away. This results in restlessness and, in turn, anxiety.
The behaviors associated with restlessness in adults are similar to those in children with ADHD. They may move around frequently, tap their hands or feet, shift in their seat, or find it challenging to sit still.
So, yes, while it is annoying when that person sitting across from you in a meeting keeps clicking their pen despite everyone’s dirty looks, be kind. You never know what someone might be dealing with.
9 β Fatigue
This is one of those signs that almost seem counterintuitive since restlessness is also a symptom. However, those with ADHD often struggle with fatigue. If you think about it, it makes sense.
The hyperactivity, sleep disruptions, and additional energy required to focus would make anyone tired. On top of that, fatigue is a common side effect of many ADHD medications. This creates a vicious, repeating cycle because exhaustion worsens attention.
The Take Home
As we’ve seen, ADHD can wreak havoc on your professional life, relationships, and personal well-being. It can take a toll on your self-worth and cause unnecessary inner frustration, as well as friction with others.
It’s important not to self-diagnose, but now that you know some of the signs and symptoms to look out for, you can seek professional help if you need it. Treatment options typically involve medication and cognitive behavioral therapy to help you manage the symptoms and learn better ways to cope.
What do you think? Did any of these raise any red flags for you? Do you have any tips to share with others who might have ADHD? Share in the comments below.
