ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental condition. While it is often associated with its “primary” symptoms, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, many of the symptoms and behaviors associated with ADHD are more complex than that.
For example, people with ADHD are prone to asking a lot of “random” questions. They’re more likely to become phone addicted. They’re more at risk for depression when they’re inactive or bored. These are only a few of the many lesser known symptoms and behaviors associated with ADHD. You can read about them on the blog posts linked to above, but here are a few others that might be interesting to you.
Rejection Sensitivity
Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) is a condition closely tied to ADHD, though it’s not always clear why. It refers to a hypersensitivity to rejection, where the response to rejection is more significant and pronounced than it is for the rest of the general population. Those with RSD often have an extreme emotional reaction to perceived rejection or criticism, which might look like:
- Avoiding situations where they could face judgment
- Experiencing intense feelings of shame or inadequacy after minor setbacks
- Overanalyzing social interactions for signs of disapproval
RSD can cause individuals to withdraw socially or overcompensate by seeking constant approval. That is why “approval seeking” is also more likely with ADHD.
Time Blindness
Poor time management is a symptom of executive function disorder, which is also associated with ADHD. But how this manifests can be hard to notice. An example is what’s called “Time Blindness.” Time blindness refers to a deeper difficulty in perceiving and prioritizing time. This can result in:
- Chronic lateness or underestimating how long tasks will take
- Procrastination followed by last-minute panic
- Difficulty planning for long-term goals
Someone with time blindness might not realize how much time they’re spending on a task, and may not process how much time they spent on it even when it’s pointed out. For example, telling someone with time blindness “you have been on your phone for 2 hours” might be met with a “no I haven’t” even if they have.
Time blindness can lead to frustration and missed opportunities if not addressed with proper strategies.
Hyperfocus
ADHD is typically associated with inattention, which can make people believe (incorrectly) that a person that gives a lot of attention to a task might not have ADHD. But individuals with ADHD can also experience periods of hyperfocus, where they become intensely absorbed in an activity of interest. While this can occasionally be a strength, it often leads to:
- Neglecting other responsibilities or basic needs, like eating or sleeping
- Difficulty transitioning out of the hyperfocus state
- Frustration for loved ones who feel ignored during these periods
Hyperfocus can make balancing tasks and maintaining relationships challenging, and because of their time management challenges, it can mean extensive time spent on other tasks without realizing how much time has past.
“Spacing Out”
Though not true of everyone with ADHD, individuals with ADHD may also be prone to “spacing out” – where they look like they’re staring off into space, but, if you ask them, they are not necessarily deep in thought or daydreaming. This may be related to inattention, but occurring internally rather than on tasks that are taking place outside of them.
Difficulty With Social Cues
Many people with ADHD struggle with interpreting and responding to social cues, leading to difficulties in relationships. This may present as:
- Interrupting others or dominating conversations
- Missing subtle hints or nonverbal signals
- Coming across as overly blunt or insensitive
These behaviors are often unintentional but can result in misunderstandings or strained interactions.
Knowing the Symptoms and Signs
Accepting your child (or yourself) “as they are” is one of the things we talk about here at ADHD Training Center, specifically because their condition is not in their control. It is neurodevelopmental, and simply how their brain functions. We can’t expect them to act or process the world the same way as neurotypical people.
Knowing about these behaviors, then, can help parents, educators, and more better understand why the individual is acting as they are, so that they can respond to it accordingly. If you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD, contact ADHD Training Center today to learn more about our coaching and classes.