Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to concentrate, control impulses and utilise energy levels. It is a widely diagnosed disorder in both children and adults, though it is usually most diagnosed during childhood. ADHD is not the same for every person suffering from it. Some experience difficulty with attention, while others may show more symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsiveness. However, despite this variability in symptoms, three primary symptoms of ADHD are characterised as: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Although these symptoms may vary in severity, they usually lead to impairment in day-to-day activities, including school, work and personal life. Being knowledgeable about these symptoms allows persons, families and professionals to recognise symptoms associated with ADHD, hence seeking help if necessary. Why not contact Workforce Wellbeing to help you provide proper assistance and solutions to employees with ADHD.
Now, let’s discuss the 3 Primary Symptoms of ADHD
1. Inattention
Inattention or inattentiveness is among the most common and widely acknowledged symptoms of ADHD. It implies difficulty remaining focused on particular objects and being able to cope with tasks requiring intense attention. Individuals suffering from inattentiveness may have the ability to focus but find their attention redirected at a moment’s notice, particularly when dealing with tedious tasks.
It has a range of signs, including forgetfulness, misplacement of items like keys or phones, missing out on important elements in the instructions, and inability to complete tasks. Someone suffering from inattention may start several things but won’t be able to finish them all. Moreover, they may find themselves easily distracted by external noise or thoughts.
In schools, inattentiveness may lead to problems with following the lesson, failing to do the homework, or problems with organisation. In the office, inattentiveness may cause missed deadlines, ignored instructions, or a number of tasks that seem impossible to cope with simultaneously.
Interestingly, many people with ADHD also experience the so-called “hyperfocus,” full immersion in a highly interesting activity. This phenomenon seems to be the opposite of inattentiveness, but is proof of attention regulation in ADHD.
2. Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is defined by the presence of excessive motion, restlessness, or a constant feeling of being propelled by something. Hyperactivity is most commonly associated with children, as children are known to be active all the time, but it can also show itself in a subtler way in adolescents and adults.
In case of children, hyperactivity can involve running or climbing, moving restlessly, or being unable to stay still during quiet activities. Children may speak a lot and also be challenged by calm and organised situations.
Hyperactivity in adults is less evident than in children but exists anyway. It can manifest itself through constant stirring, a sensation of restlessness while lying down, as well as anxiety in complicated situations.
Sleeping patterns can also be affected by hyperactivity, making sleeping at night a challenging endeavour. Although not everyone with ADHD is physically hyperactive, hyperactivity is an essential part of the diagnosed condition.
3. Impulsivity
Impulsivity is the third key symptom of ADHD, which consists of doing things quickly without understanding the implications of these actions. As a result, the way people communicate, make decisions, and behave socially and professionally may be severely affected.
People with the symptom of impulsivity tend to interrupt others during discussions, speak out of turn, or have difficulties waiting patiently. Sometimes, impulsivity is manifested through quick and careless decisions, such as buying something without deciding to do so in advance or abruptly deciding to change arrangements that one later regrets.
In everyday life, impulsivity might be reflected through difficulties with blurting things out, being emotional in the moment, or taking risks based on the existing situation. In the workplace, one might interrupt a colleague while talking, send emails without proofreading, or change focus to another case before finishing their project.
It is essential to highlight that impulsive behaviour is not a matter of recklessness but is instead derived from the brain’s working modality that regulates self-control and decision-making.
The Effect of These Symptoms on Life
The three main symptoms of ADHD — inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity — may co-occur in the same person but express differently. For instance, some people may demonstrate more inattentiveness, while others could be more hyperactive or impulsive. Many people may show a combination of all three symptoms.
These symptoms can affect many life aspects, such as education, work, interpersonal relationships and self-organisation. However, another point to keep in mind is that people might experience some forgetting, restlessness or impulsive behaviours at times that may not mean that they have ADHD.
For the diagnosis of ADHD to be made, the symptoms should occur regularly, in different environments and have an impact on the daily activities of the person. Professional evaluation is needed for a diagnosis to be made, which will indicate whether ADHD is responsible for the symptoms or if there are other causes of them.
ADHD is primarily characterised by three behaviours: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These behaviours can impact concentration, organisation, activity level, and self-control in day-to-day life. With enough support and understanding, individuals can manage their challenges and make the most of their strengths to improve their day. Understanding the symptoms is also the first step towards acquiring the right diagnosis and support.
