ADHD Symptoms
What is Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder?
ADHD symptoms are typically grouped into two categories: inattention, and hyperactivity/impulsivity. An individual may predominantly display one category or a combination of both.
Inattention Symptoms:
- Challenges with attention to detail that often leads to making mistakes.
- Challenges in maintaining focus unless highly interested in the topic or activity.
- Frequent procrastination.
- Appearing distracted during conversations.
- Being easily distracted/side-tracked, leading to incomplete tasks.
- Being easily distracted by noises or nearby activity.
- Challenges with organising tasks and responsibilities.
- Frequently misplacing items needed for daily activities.
- Forgetting appointments or key daily information.
Hyperactivity Symptoms:
- Regular need to move while seated (e.g., tapping hands, moving feet, shifting in seat).
- Needing to get up and move one’s body often when expected to remain seated.
- Persistent feelings of internal restlessness. In children, this may show as excessive running or climbing. In adults, this may be a constant feeling that one has to be doing something.
- Talking, singing, or making noise during quiet or leisure activities.
- Seemingly boundless energy, described as being “driven by a motor.”
- Overcommitting to tasks beyond one’s capacity.
- Talking more than peers in social settings.
- Racing thoughts or a “busy brain” feeling.
Impulsivity Symptoms:
- Often answering questions before they are fully asked.
- Challenges with waiting one’s turn.
- Often interjecting in other’s conversations, overstepping social boundaries, or offering unsolicited opinions.
- Challenges in managing emotional reactions and regulating feelings.
Getting Support for ADHD and Related Mental Health Conditions
As ADHD is a lifelong condition, it cannot be “cured”—but effective treatment can significantly improve quality of life. One such approach is ADHD Coaching, which focuses on developing practical skills such as:
- Self-awareness
- Time management
- Organisation
- Breaking down tasks
- Motivation building
- Behaviour and impulse control
- Helpful self-talk
- Goal setting
- Emotion regulation and distress tolerance
Addressing the challenges associated with ADHD via coaching could help to alleviate symptoms of co-occurring conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression). However, if needed, these conditions can be addressed with additional therapeutic approaches as part of a tailored treatment plan.
At Endeavour Wellness, we provide ADHD support for children, adolescents, and adults. If you or someone you care about is navigating the challenges of ADHD, we’re here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to support you on your journey.
