By: Trevor Price The symptoms of attention deficit disorder may appear obvious. Those afflicted with it seem to be in perpetual motion. They can't sit still, hate waiting and are constantly interrupting. Derailed by the slightest distraction, they rarely stick with a task long enough to finish it. Daily life can seem exasperating and exhausting. But are these the symptoms of a youngster suffering from ADHD? No, they're the evidences of adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. And though Adult ADHD is extremely prevalent amongst adults, particularly those who suffered from the disorder as a child, it's often either difficult to spot or attributed to stress or immaturity. To find out more about this disorder, including how it's treated and its symptoms, read on. How Common is Adult ADHD? About 1 to 2% of adult men and women, or roughly 5 million Americans, have problems maintaining attention or controlling their movements and impulses. ADHD refers to a spectrum of difficulties in restraining motion and paying attention. Symptoms of attention deficit disorder are often harder to spot and diagnose among adults than among children. Symptoms Associated With ADHD in Adults -Restlessness, fidgeting and squirming -An inability to sustain any form of focused activity (like reading) for a long period of time -Extreme distractibility, forgetfulness, absent-mindedness -Difficulty focusing on conversations or speeches, particularly at work -Impatience - for example, irritable when forced to wait in line or traffic -Daily or hourly mood swings, ranging from depression or discontent to cheerfulness and excitement -Failure to stay on a single task, and instead jumping from task to task -Difficulty solving problems or managing time -Aggressive or irritable personality reflected in a hot and easily flared temper -Impulsiveness in decision making and in starting or ending relationships -Easily frustrated and unable to handle stress and everyday hurdles -Clumsiness, poor body image, little sense of direction -Immaturity Instead of running around the room, breaking things and throwing toys on the floor like a child with ADHD may do, an adult with the disorder will simply constantly be in motion. They'll often tap their feet, fidget with their hands or move around in their chair. Getting Help With the Adult Onset There are support groups and medical professionals out there who can help you get treatment for your disorder. You can try contacting physicians in your area that work with children suffering from ADHD or you call the Attention Deficit Disorder Association. They can often refer individuals to qualified and experienced professionals in their area. Remember, many people mistake the symptoms of attention deficit disorder for either daily stress or possible mental illness. Avoid misdiagnoses by talking to your doctor about your concerns. Adult ADHD can be treated, often with the same drugs and treatment methods used to treat childhood ADHD.
