Adult ADHD Symptoms: Is It More Than Just Focus Issues?

Symptoms related to adult ADHD?

Hello, doctor.
In 2018, I visited the psychiatry department at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital primarily because I was unable to focus at work.
At that time, I was diagnosed with ADHD - unspecified type, but no medication was prescribed.
The doctor taught me some techniques to help improve my concentration.
Later, I changed to a very different job, and my attention issues were not a significant problem, so I managed well and did not return to the psychiatry department.
However, recently I have noticed that I often zone out when others are speaking.
Sometimes I struggle to grasp the main points, or I find myself wanting to divert the conversation.
I've also realized that my short-term memory is quite poor; I easily forget what I was doing just moments ago.
This makes me dislike it when others interrupt me while I'm speaking, as it causes me to forget what I was saying and prevents me from continuing.
As a result, I tend to talk for long stretches, often for ten minutes without giving others a chance to interject.
People close to me have mentioned that my conversations often lack focus, containing only one or two main points, yet I tend to go on at length.
When others interrupt me, I become very anxious and frustrated, which I dislike feeling.
Additionally, I don't know why, but I often speak quite loudly and passionately, leading others to mistakenly think I am angry, even though I am unaware of this change in my demeanor.
My tendency to interrupt others while disallowing interruptions during my own speech has strained my relationships with close friends.
I would like to ask if these behaviors are symptoms commonly associated with ADHD, or if I might have other issues.
Thank you for your assistance, doctor!

Xiao Hua, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/23

Dr. Liu Shikai reply Psychiatry

Dear Miss Hsiao-Hua,
There are many factors that can affect concentration.
In addition to the medical factors associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it is also important to consider the impact of other medical conditions, as well as the interplay of factors such as sleep, daily routines, diet, and life stressors.
You mentioned that you previously visited the psychiatric department at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital and experienced some improvement after trying behavioral modifications and concentration exercises, which is very encouraging.
However, you have recently experienced some symptoms, including poor memory, lack of patience, interrupting conversations, and feelings of anxiety and irritability.
I recommend returning to the hospital for a thorough evaluation and differential diagnosis by a physician, who can then provide the most appropriate treatment based on the diagnosis.
I hope your concerns will gradually improve.

Reply Date: 2020/10/23

More Info

Understanding Adult ADHD Symptoms: Is It More Than Just Focus Issues?
Hello! Thank you for sharing your experiences and concerns regarding your attention and communication challenges. Based on your description, it does seem that you may be experiencing symptoms consistent with Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), but it is important to consider a comprehensive evaluation to confirm this diagnosis.

ADHD in adults often presents differently than in children. While hyperactivity may diminish with age, symptoms such as inattention, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation can persist. Adults with ADHD frequently struggle with maintaining focus, managing time, and organizing tasks. Your experiences of zoning out during conversations, difficulty recalling what you were saying, and feeling anxious when interrupted are indeed common among individuals with ADHD. Additionally, the tendency to dominate conversations and speak at a high volume can be linked to impulsivity and emotional responses that are characteristic of ADHD.

It's also worth noting that ADHD can co-occur with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. The anxiety you feel when interrupted or when you lose your train of thought may exacerbate your attention difficulties. This interplay between ADHD and anxiety can create a cycle where each condition worsens the other, making it crucial to address both in treatment.

Regarding your concerns about whether your behaviors are solely due to ADHD or if there might be other underlying issues, it's essential to consider a few factors. First, ADHD symptoms can overlap with other conditions, such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, or even learning disabilities. A thorough assessment by a mental health professional can help differentiate these conditions and provide a clearer picture of your situation.

In terms of treatment, there are several options available for managing ADHD symptoms. Medication, such as stimulants (e.g., amphetamines or methylphenidate), is often effective in reducing symptoms of inattention and impulsivity. However, since you mentioned that you did not receive medication during your previous diagnosis, it might be beneficial to revisit this option with a healthcare provider who specializes in adult ADHD. They can assess your current symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

In addition to medication, behavioral strategies can also be helpful. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist in developing coping mechanisms for managing attention difficulties and emotional responses. Mindfulness practices may also help improve focus and reduce anxiety.

When discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider, be open about your symptoms, how they affect your daily life, and your desire for a comprehensive evaluation. It's important to advocate for yourself and express your need for a thorough assessment that considers both ADHD and any co-occurring conditions.

Lastly, consider seeking out a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD. They can provide tailored support and guidance, whether through therapy, medication management, or a combination of both.

In summary, your experiences do align with symptoms of ADHD, but a professional evaluation is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and explore treatment options. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are effective strategies and supports available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Can Adults Have ADHD Symptoms? Seeking Help for Attention Issues

I would like to ask the doctor: Can adults still exhibit symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? I feel that I have difficulty concentrating. I want to visit an ADHD clinic, but it seems that hospitals in central Taiwan categorize ADHD under the pediatric and...

Dr. Wang Hongsong reply Psychiatry
Hello: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is typically evaluated by a child psychiatrist, but child psychiatrists also specialize in general psychiatry. Some child mental health clinics may have age restrictions for consultations. If you are unable to visit a child m...

Understanding Adult ADHD and Anxiety: A Student's Journey to Focus

Hello, Doctor. I am a 23-year-old male student and would like to inquire about adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Regarding my background: I exhibited some behavioral issues in elementary school, often teasing classmates, which I suspect might have been a sign...

Dr. Wang Yazhen reply Psychiatry
Hello, Chen Dada: Thank you for providing such a detailed description of your situation. Regarding whether your condition may be ADHD, I recommend seeking an evaluation from a physician specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry. In short, there can be many reasons for diffi...

Understanding Adult Attention Deficit: Symptoms, Challenges, and Solutions

As I grow older, I find myself forgetting more and more things. I can completely forget what I just heard a second ago, and I often forget to execute the goals I set for myself or become restless during the process. In class, I constantly look around, feeling strange about it, an...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Netizens suggest seeking consultation at the Department of Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine). Dr. Wu Enliang.

Am I Experiencing Adult ADHD Symptoms at Work?

Hello, Doctor. I recently started a new job just over a month ago. This job requires me to meet certain daily progress goals, which means I need to maintain a certain speed to complete my tasks. However, the nature of the work demands a high level of attention to detail, and ther...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, Snowman: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically presents symptoms from a young age. One subtype is characterized by pure inattention without the presence of hyperactivity or impulsivity, which is more commonly observ...