Adults often wonder whether everyday distraction is “just stress” or something that warrants an ADHD evaluation. In this short video, Dr. Alex Crenshaw outlines the signs clinicians look for most often.
He describes difficulty sustaining focus, losing track of conversations, zoning out, trouble organizing home and work life, forgotten appointments, restlessness, and impulsive patterns that may have shown up since childhood — noting that ADHD can present as inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, or both.
Transcript
Some of the most common signs that an adult should consider an ADHD evaluation are things like having trouble focusing on things for a prolonged period of time. Frequently losing track of conversations or being told they are not listening, zoning out, as well as having trouble organizing their life — maybe forgetting appointments, finding it difficult to do all the household duties and family duties and workplace duties, having those organized.
As well as potentially feeling often restless. People with ADHD often, as kids, were the kids that were bouncing off the walls, blurting out answers before a question has been completed — those sorts of things. And it can be one or both of those different categories.
So one subtype is inattention, which is difficulty sustaining attention. And that can look really different from the more hyperactive or impulsive subtype of ADHD. So somebody can have one or both of those subtypes.
Edited for readability while preserving Dr. Crenshaw’s meaning. This is educational content, not a diagnostic interview.
When to consider reaching out
- Focus, organization, or follow-through problems keep showing up across work and home — not only during busy weeks.
- Partners, colleagues, or family members regularly say you are zoning out or not listening.
- You have wondered for years whether ADHD might explain the gap between your effort and your results.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common signs of adult ADHD?
Dr. Crenshaw highlights prolonged focus problems, losing track of conversations, zoning out, disorganization, forgotten appointments, restlessness, and impulsive patterns. ADHD may present as inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, or combined.
Can ADHD look different from person to person?
Yes. The inattentive subtype centers on sustaining attention, while the hyperactive/impulsive subtype looks more restless or impulsive. Many adults have features of both.
Does having these signs mean I have ADHD?
Not by themselves. Similar experiences can come from stress, anxiety, sleep problems, or other conditions. A comprehensive evaluation clarifies what is driving the symptoms.
Where can I get adult ADHD testing near Atlanta?
Dr. Crenshaw conducts adult ADHD assessments in person at Peachtree Psychology’s Roswell office, serving clients across North Metro Atlanta.
About the clinician
Licensed Psychologist
Licensed psychologist and Assistant Professor of Psychology at Kennesaw State University, specializing in evidence-based assessment, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and relationship therapy.
View full profile & videos →Related Peachtree resources
Ready to take the next step?
Request a consultation about adult ADHD testing or therapy with Dr. Crenshaw. Evaluations are conducted in person at our Roswell office.