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So You Think You Have ADHD?

  • apeak1
  • Aug 1
  • 2 min read

Understanding the Signs — and What to Do Next


If you’ve spent any time scrolling social media lately, chances are you’ve come across posts about mental health - especially ADHD. More and more people are recognizing ADHD symptoms in themselves after seeing relatable videos or checklists online.


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I’ve had many clients walk into sessions saying, “I saw this TikTok and it really made me wonder…” And it’s a valid question! But while social media can raise awareness, it doesn’t replace a full evaluation.


When mental health professionals assess for ADHD, we use criteria outlined in the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). This guide provides a solid foundation, but even it doesn’t capture every nuance of how ADHD shows up in daily life - especially across different ages and genders.


Common ADHD Symptoms

These are some of the classic signs that often show up in checklists and self-screens:

  • Making careless mistakes

  • Skipping or misreading instructions

  • Rushing through non-preferred tasks

  • Trouble staying focused

  • Getting easily distracted or bored

  • Daydreaming frequently

  • Zoning out in conversations

  • Interrupting or blurting out

  • Difficulty finishing tasks


ADHD Is More Than Trouble Focusing

Here’s the thing: ADHD is complex. It looks different for everyone - and there are many symptoms you don’t always see in viral posts.


Some lesser-known signs include:

  • Emotional ups and downs or impulsive reactions

  • Sleep struggles

  • Sensory sensitivity or overwhelm

  • Trouble expressing thoughts clearly

  • Rejection sensitivity or dysphoria

  • Hyperfocus (yes, too much focus!)

  • Losing track of time (time blindness)

  • Feeling chronically bored or unmotivated

  • Working memory issues (like forgetting steps mid-task)

  • Inconsistent performance - great one day, tough the next

  • Struggles with transitions or shifting focus

  • Poor body awareness - bumping into things, awkward handwriting


Misdiagnosis Is Common — Especially for Women

ADHD often first appears in childhood, but it doesn’t always get caught early. Some people don’t realize they have it until they’re navigating college, grad school, or the workplace - when structure fades and executive functioning skills like planning, organizing, staying on task, and managing time become even more important.

It’s also not uncommon for women to be misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression, only to later discover that ADHD was at the root of it all.


What Should You Do Next?

If this list feels familiar, you’re not alone - and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.


At Allied Behavioral Health Solutions (ABHS), we’re here to help you sort through your experiences, explore what’s going on beneath the surface, and find strategies that truly work for you. Whether you’re seeking an evaluation, therapy, or medication support, our team can walk alongside you every step of the way.


Getting answers starts with asking the question - and we’re ready when you are. Call 615.292.3661 to get started.


Clinical Review by: Alison Peak, LCSW



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