The Less Known Signs of ADHD

The Less Known Signs of ADHD

When most people think of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), they imagine a hyperactive child who can’t sit still or someone who is easily distracted. While these are classic symptoms, ADHD is far more complex and can present differently depending on the individual’s age, gender, or environment. This often leads to many people with ADHD going undiagnosed or misunderstood for years. Below, I’ll walk you through some lesser-known signs of ADHD that you or your loved ones might not recognize.

1. Emotional Dysregulation

ADHD isn’t just about attention—it affects emotions too. People with ADHD can feel emotions more intensely and may have trouble regulating them. This can show up as quick shifts between happiness and frustration, difficulty calming down after minor irritations or feeling overwhelmed by emotions that others seem to manage more easily. It’s not uncommon for someone with ADHD to feel like their feelings are "too much" or out of proportion to situations.

2. Hyperfocus

Though ADHD is associated with distraction, many people with ADHD experience hyperfocus—a state of intense concentration on a task or activity. When hyper-focused, they can lose track of time, forget to eat, or ignore other responsibilities. This can be confusing to those around them, who might wonder how someone with ADHD can spend hours engrossed in a video game or hobby but struggle with everyday tasks like paying bills or organising.

3. Time Blindness

A lesser-known aspect of ADHD is time blindness, or the inability to accurately perceive the passage of time. Individuals may frequently underestimate how long tasks will take or miss deadlines because they get "lost in the moment”. This can create a pattern of chronic lateness or a tendency to procrastinate until the last possible minute.

4. Rejection Sensitivity

People with ADHD often experience heightened sensitivity to rejection or criticism, known as rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD). A small comment or perceived slight can trigger intense emotional pain. This fear of being judged or criticised can lead to people avoiding social situations or becoming overly self-critical.

5. Struggles with Self-Care and “Simple” Tasks

ADHD can impact executive function—the brain’s ability to organise, prioritise, and complete tasks. As a result, what seems like a simple task to others, such as making a phone call or folding laundry, can feel overwhelming. This can contribute to feelings of guilt or shame, especially if the individual is labeled as lazy or unmotivated by those around them.

6. Sleep Problems

Many people with ADHD struggle with sleep—whether it’s trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up. Racing thoughts, inconsistent schedules, or forgetting to go to bed on time can contribute to poor sleep habits. This lack of sleep can worsen ADHD symptoms, creating a challenging cycle.

7. Impulsiveness in Thought and Speech

While impulsivity in ADHD is often associated with actions, it can also affect thought and speech. People with ADHD may interrupt conversations, finish others' sentences, or blurt out thoughts without filtering. This isn’t intentional rudeness—it's often because their brain moves quickly, and they struggle to hold back what they want to say in the moment.

What to take away:

ADHD can look very different from person to person. Recognizing these lesser-known signs is important for understanding how ADHD affects daily life beyond the stereotypical symptoms. If you or someone you know resonates with these experiences, it might be worth consulting with a mental health professional for evaluation. A proper diagnosis can lead to better strategies for managing ADHD and living a more fulfilling life.

Remember: ADHD is not a character flaw or personal failing. It’s a neurological difference that can be managed with the right support and understanding.