The Unexpected Signs of ADHD

Do you struggle to prioritize tasks, make yourself do the things you need to do, pay attention in conversations, and manage your time? It's possible that you're dealing with a condition that manifests those behaviors–ADHD. Even though the symptoms may not necessarily be outwardly apparent, there are some specific traits that can indicate the presence of the disorder, even quietly.

Sometimes it's difficult to determine if an individual's problems stem from mental health issues or from outside challenges, like environmental stressors. But if there are certain personality traits present, it may point to undiagnosed or unacknowledged ADHD. To help identify these traits, we spoke with Amy Ellis, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with expertise in ADHD.

A person with ADHD could have a poor sense of organization or an inability to focus. ”If my patient has difficulty with any of the executive functions, from organizing their day to completing tasks, those are important signs to look out for,” says Ellis. Executive functioning involves the ability to plan, prioritize, remember details and manage one's time — skills that can be impacted by ADHD.

Another key trait is low frustration tolerance. If someone easily loses their temper or is quick to become agitated, this could be a sign of ADHD that hasn't been addressed. Additionally, Ellis notes, “Someone with ADHD might be more prone to making negative monologues and having trouble shutting down their inner dialogue.” People could express a general frustration, or even appear overwhelmed, which indicates an underlying sense of anxiety.

Impulsivity can also reveal itself through hurried decision-making processes or riskier behavior, like reckless driving or gambling. “An individual with ADHD might be impulsive in their decision-making and less likely to weigh out the pros and cons,” says Ellis.

We all have different personalities, strengths, and challenges, and not everyone with ADHD will have the same traits. But regardless, it’s important to note the patterns that could be warning signs, so the individual can seek professional help and take the necessary steps towards self-improvement. ADHD is often misunderstood, but with diagnosis and proper treatment, the individual can regain control of their life and create a better reality.