ADHD in Adults: 6 Signs That Are Often Overlooked
Many adults only find out at 30, 40 or 50 that they have ADHD. Before that, they were often told they were too lazy, too chaotic, too much. Yet behind it there is often simply a different way your brain directs attention.
How to recognize ADHD in adults
ADHD in adults rarely looks like the fidgety child. These signs are more typical:
- You procrastinate, even though you want to get going. Important tasks pile up until the pressure is huge. Then suddenly everything works.
- Your mind is never quiet. Thoughts jump around, ten tabs are open, and inside you feel restless all the time.
- You lose the thread. In the middle of a conversation, while reading, at work. And you lose keys or appointments along the way.
- Hyperfocus. With exciting topics you forget the time. With boring ones, getting started is all the harder.
- Strong emotions. Criticism hits you hard, anger comes quickly. And often leaves just as quickly.
- You are often exhausted. Frequently because it takes so much energy to "function" on the outside.
Do several of these sound familiar, and have they been there since childhood? And do they weigh on you at work, in relationships or in everyday life? Then it is worth taking a closer look.
Why a diagnosis can be a relief
For many people, the diagnosis is an eye-opener. Suddenly a lot makes sense. And instead of judging yourself, you can work specifically on what makes everyday life hard.
Important: not every kind of chaos is ADHD. Depression, anxiety or burnout can look similar or occur alongside ADHD. That is why a careful assessment matters.
What comes next
At Psymondo in Munich we offer a thorough ADHD assessment for adults. The first and final sessions can also take place by video. Afterwards we look together at what could help you, for example behavioral therapy for adult ADHD or our ADHD group therapy, where you notice: I am not alone with this.
Would you like more structure in daily life first? Read on here: organizing daily life with ADHD and less pressure.
Quick answers
Can ADHD develop in adulthood?
According to the current diagnostic criteria, the signs begin in childhood, usually before age 12. Many people only notice them as adults, when work, family and responsibilities grow.
Who diagnoses ADHD in adults?
Licensed psychological psychotherapists and medical specialists, for example in psychiatry and psychotherapy. Only physicians may prescribe medication. At Psymondo, the assessment is done by Vanessa Tobisch, licensed psychological psychotherapist (behavioral therapy) and psychologist (M.Sc.).
Can an ADHD assessment be done online?
Partly. The first and final sessions can take place by video. The core assessment takes place at the practice in Munich. You can find all steps on the ADHD assessment page.
