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In today's digital age, social media platforms like TikTok are shedding light on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults, a condition often overlooked or misinterpreted.

According to Lawrence A. Vitulano, Ph.D., ABPP, a clinical psychologist and professor at Yale University, ADHD symptoms may not have been apparent earlier in life, making detection challenging. Yet, understanding these signs is crucial, as ADHD is highly treatable and can significantly impact daily functioning when left unmanaged.

Below are the five most common symptoms of ADHD in adults:

1.Distractibility

Constantly getting sidetracked by minor stimuli is a hallmark of ADHD. This may manifest as difficulty staying focused on tasks or feeling restless and impulsive. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the condition may show up in three primary forms: inattention (characterized by difficulty maintaining focus), hyperactivity (marked by restlessness or excessive energy), and impulsivity (acting without thorough consideration).

2. Inability to Control Attention

While some struggle with maintaining focus, others find their attention fixates intensely on specific activities, hindering productivity and task-switching abilities.

"Perhaps you find yourself engrossed in online searches for extended periods or lose track of time while playing video games into the early hours," Dr. Khurana said, Self reported.

Alternatively, individuals with ADHD may prioritize minor, immediate tasks over substantial long-term goals, such as postponing essential health appointments or job applications in favor of desk organization or incessant email refreshing. As Vitulano explains, adherence to schedules becomes problematic for those with ADHD, as they struggle to transition between tasks and prioritize effectively.

3. Workplace Challenges

Adults with ADHD often encounter difficulties meeting deadlines and organizing tasks, leading to professional setbacks and employment issues.

Khurana noted the critical role of classroom behavior in diagnosing ADHD among children, as it underscores challenges in adhering to schedules, following rules, and navigating social norms. Conversely, in adults, the workplace often serves as the arena where symptoms become apparent. Research suggests that individuals with ADHD face a significantly higher risk of job termination and chronic employment issues compared to their peers without the condition.

"You'll see a lot of people who do not finish projects on time or run late for meetings," said Khurana. "In meetings, they might seem very scattered, or they're shuffling through papers, not organized, or missing deadlines."

4. General Frustration

Vitulano also pointed out that individuals with undiagnosed and untreated ADHD often do not articulate classic symptoms such as inattentiveness or hyperactivity when seeking help. Instead, they may express a sense of underachievement or frustration in their daily lives.

"Patients will tell me, 'I've worked so hard on this and I've got nothing done, why is this happening?'" Vitulano said. Additionally, struggles in relationships and dating may arise as a response to disorganization and impulsivity.

5. Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions

Merely observing someone does not provide sufficient evidence for diagnosis, and there is no singular test to confirm ADHD. However, considering the presence of other mental health conditions alongside ADHD symptoms is crucial, given that approximately half of individuals with ADHD have comorbid diagnoses. These may include anxiety, as well as depression and bipolar disorder.

Nonetheless, Vitulano stressed the importance of seeking assistance if one feels unwell saying, "If [the treatments] you've tried haven't worked, then it's time to consult someone." He emphasized the absence of shame in seeking help, noting the significance of addressing concerns and accessing appropriate support.