Do you often feel you're not reaching your potential? It's a common feeling among adults with ADHD. Although many adults with ADHD have above-average intelligence, they may feel they have underachieved in terms of academic and/or professional success. Many also report difficulties in their personal relationships.

ADHD: Not Just a Child's Disorder

Overall, there may be a general feeling of dissatisfaction among adults with ADHD—a nagging sense that they are not realizing their potential.

Of course, many adults go for years not knowing they have ADHD. They assume, as many people do, that ADHD is a "kid's" disorder. When they finally learn that they do have ADHD—now a medically recognized disorder in adults—they often experience an "a-ha!" moment, feeling relieved to understand the source of their life-long concerns. Sometimes it's not until a child is diagnosed with ADHD that the parent realizes personal symptoms of ADHD as well.

ADHD tends to run in families. So, when one family member is diagnosed, you may want to look for symptoms of ADHD in other family members.

What Are the Symptoms of ADHD in Adults?

If you suspect that you might have ADHD, you may find it helpful to ask yourself the questions below. These questions are related to the three core symptoms of ADHD: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. People who do not have ADHD may occasionally demonstrate inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. People with ADHD will demonstrate more of these behaviors, consistently, over time. Of course, only a qualified health care professional can make an accurate diagnosis of ADHD.

Inattention

• Do you find that you frequently "wander off" mentally?
• Are you frequently distracted by irrelevant sights or sounds?
• Do you find yourself missing details or making careless mistakes?
• Do you have difficulty following instructions?
• Do you find yourself losing or forgetting things often?

Hyperactivity

• Can you sit still, or are you always moving your hands or feet while in your chair?
• Do you tap your pencil or your feet?
• Do you regularly play with your hair or clothing?
• Do you consciously resist fidgeting or squirming?

Impulsivity

• Do you often take action before you consider the possible consequences?
• In conversation, do you interrupt others? Do you blurt out inappropriate comments?
• Do you experience difficulty waiting in line or for your turn?

Use the ADHD checklist for adults as a starting point to see if you may be experiencing the signs and symptoms of ADHD.