ADHD can significantly impact everyday life in a variety of ways, affecting work, school, relationships, and overall well-being. Here's how:​

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1. Challenges with Focus and Attention

• Difficulty staying focused on tasks, leading to incomplete work or missed details.

• Struggling to follow through on instructions or finish projects.

• Frequently losing items like keys, phones, or important documents.

• Trouble listening in conversations, which can lead to misunderstandings.

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2. Poor Time Management

• Often running late or underestimating how long tasks will take.

• Procrastinating on responsibilities, especially those that feel boring or overwhelming.

• Difficulty organizing daily routines or keeping track of schedules.

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3. Impulsivity

• Interrupting conversations or blurting out comments without thinking.

• Acting without considering consequences, which might strain relationships or lead to risky decisions.

• Difficulty waiting in lines or situations that require patience.

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4. Emotional Regulation

• Quick to frustration or anger over minor challenges.

• Experiencing intense emotional highs and lows, sometimes feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated.

• Difficulty coping with stress or disappointment.

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5. Social and Relationship Struggles

• Interrupting or dominating conversations unintentionally.

• Forgetting important dates or commitments, which can frustrate loved ones.

• Difficulty reading social cues, leading to awkward interactions or misunderstandings.

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6. Work or Academic Difficulties

• Struggling to stay organized or meet deadlines, which can affect job performance.

• Difficulty with long-term projects due to challenges in breaking tasks into manageable steps.

• Feeling bored or restless during tasks that require sustained mental effort.

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7. Low Self-Esteem

• Negative feedback from others (e.g., "You’re lazy" or "You’re disorganized") can lead to feelings of inadequacy.

• Comparing oneself to others who seem to manage responsibilities more easily.

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8. Physical Restlessness

• Difficulty sitting still for long periods, tapping feet, or constantly fidgeting.

• Feeling the need to move around frequently, which can be distracting in structured environments.

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9. Sleep Problems

• Difficulty falling asleep due to a racing mind or trouble winding down.

• Irregular sleep patterns that lead to fatigue and reduced focus during the day.

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10. Financial Challenges

• Forgetting to pay bills or mismanaging finances.

• Impulsive spending, leading to financial strain.

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This is not an exhaustive list of symptoms and it is important to note that sometimes symptoms of ADHD and anxiety can overlap. Your therapist can help you figure out if it is ADHD, anxiety, or both that you are struggling with.