There is perhaps no other disorder that manifests so differently in each individual as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD). Common ADHD symptoms vary not only by age and gender, but also from person to person the symptoms can be different.

However, most people envision the same qualities when they hear the diagnosis of ADHD, someone who cannot pay attention and cannot sit still. This may be the stereotype and is characteristic of many people with ADHD, but they are not the only symptoms of ADHD.

We’re going to discuss some of the less known and potentially unusual symptoms of ADHD that you might not associate with this neurological disorder.

Hyperfocus

Hyperfocus is a state in which, when someone enters it, they can focus on a task for hours with no stopping. Not only can they concentrate for an extended period of time, but when someone enters this state, the quality of work they produce increases as well.

Many people do not associate ADHD with long periods of focusing, but hyperfocus is a symptom of ADHD that some people experience. Those with ADHD are more likely to hyperfocus if they work on something they enjoy, and they are also more likely to hyperfocus on creative projects since many people with ADHD are more creative by nature.

Emotional Sensitivity

Yet another stigma of those with ADHD is that they are very talkative, but fewer people know that those with ADHD may also have an emotional sensitivity. They can be especially sensitive towards criticism and rejection. This is likely because those with ADHD may have a lot of experience with being told that they are doing things “wrong” and so become extra sensitive to certain situations. This also means that those with ADHD are more empathetic, though, and may be able to empathize with those around them better than individuals without ADHD.

Difficulty Sleeping

Many individuals with ADHD have a hard time sleeping at night. Whether it is tossing and turning or a hard time staying asleep, ADHD can cause this. On top of that, the fatigue that results from poor sleep often leads to forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating, which are both symptoms of ADHD.

Impulsive Shopping

Shopping may not seem to be related to those with ADHD, but there is a potential connection here. Those with ADHD may struggle with interrupting others, and this impulsivity can also manifest as a problem with impulsive shopping. Now, that’s not to say that everyone who enjoys shopping has undiagnosed ADHD, but those with ADHD are more susceptible to buying something they think they need at the moment, only to regret it later.

Getting an ADHD Diagnosis

If you think that you or someone you know has ADHD, the best thing you can do is schedule a neuropsychologic assessment. Through this test, a neuropsychologist can determine if you have ADHD, what your strengths and weaknesses are, and what treatment may be best.

If you are interested in learning more about ADHD or scheduling a neuropsychological assessment, call Abbey Neuropsychology Clinic for more information.

Sources

[1] https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/adhd.html

[2] https://www.hope-wellness.com/blog/7-lesser-known-signs-of-adhd

[3] https://www.additudemag.com/understanding-adhd-hyperfocus/