How ADHD Symptoms Affect Everyone Differently
ADHD symptoms are unique to each individual and can impact many areas of life such as schoolwork, home life, social relationships and work. People with ADHD typically struggle with difficulty focusing and paying attention; this may impact schoolwork, home life, social relationships and employment opportunities.
ADHD can be diagnosed at any age, though it’s more prevalent among children and adolescents than adults.
As one grows older, their symptoms may shift; hyperactivity becomes less prominent in elementary school while inattentiveness becomes more noticeable during adolescence.
A doctor, such as a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist, can diagnose ADHD through an extensive history and physical examination. They may also ask the person to reflect on their symptoms and identify things that might have caused them distress when they were younger.
You might not realize just how much ADHD impacts your daily activities. Your friends and coworkers might have noticed that you struggle to get ready in the morning, focus on tasks when it’s time for work, or remain calm under duress. But these symptoms don’t have to stay hidden; there are ways of dealing with them head-on.
If you suffer from ADHD, changing up your routine can help you feel more organized and less stressed. For example, schedule regular meals and snacks no more than three hours apart and avoid sugary drinks that provide temporary energy but cause a subsequent crash in mood, energy level and focus.
Exercise is also a great way to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. Even just a few minutes each day can significantly improve focus, energy levels and mood.