ADHD IS MORE THAN BEING DISTRACTED

ADHD Is More Than Being Distracted: Understanding ADHD in Everyday Life

When people hear ADHD/ADD, they often think about someone who cannot sit still or gets distracted easily. But Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can affect much more than attention. It can influence how you organize your day, manage time, start and finish tasks, control impulses, and keep up with everyday responsibilities.

For many adults, ADHD doesn’t always look like ADHD.

What Does ADHD Look Like?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition involving persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity. Symptoms begin during childhood, although some people aren’t diagnosed until adulthood. 

In everyday life, ADHD might look like:

  • Putting off a task even though you genuinely want to complete it
  • Starting several projects but struggling to finish them
  • Frequently losing your phone, keys, wallet, or other items
  • Underestimating how long things will take
  • Forgetting appointments or responsibilities
  • Becoming distracted in the middle of conversations or tasks
  • Feeling restless or constantly needing stimulation
  • Struggling to organize tasks when there are several things competing for your attention
  • Acting or speaking before you’ve had time to think
Occasionally experiencing these things does not mean you have ADHD. With ADHD, symptoms are persistent, occur across different areas of life, and interfere with everyday functioning.

When Should You Consider Getting Help?

If difficulties with attention, organization, impulsivity, restlessness, or completing tasks consistently interfere with your work, school, relationships, or everyday responsibilities, consider talking with a qualified healthcare or mental health professional.

Bisola Duyile, PhD, LPC, ADHD-CCSP

Email: hello@duyilepsychotherapy.com

Looking for additional support? Learn more about psychotherapy services and how I work with clients at Duyile Psychotherapy

This article is for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose ADHD or replace individualized mental health care.

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