Hyperactivity is a key characteristic of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD). While ADD is characterized by difficulty focusing, ADHD is characterized by hyperactivity; sometimes both aspects of the disorder are present. Unfortunately, the signs of ADD/ADHD aren’t always noticed in childhood, leaving undiagnosed kids to struggle through school and into the workforce with a focus and activity issue that disrupts daily functioning. Here is a look at the signs of hyperactivity in adults.
Chronic Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity doesn’t just develop in adults. It is a chronic disorder that begins in childhood. Even very well behaved children can have ADD/ADHD; their more docile nature just makes it that much more difficult to notice the abnormal behaviors. Regardless, the signs of hyperactivity you may be noticing in an adult close to you—if it is in fact hyperactivity as a result of ADHD—have likely been present since childhood. What all of this means is that, if hyperactivity suddenly appears in adulthood, it’s probably not ADHD. In fact, there are a range of health, learning, and psychiatric disorders that can mimic some of the symptoms of ADD/ADHD, so it’s important to speak with a doctor about your concerns.
If you suspect you or another adult you know has some hyperactivity issues as a direct result of ADHD, many of the signs you’re looking for are in the past. School years were likely a difficult time for someone with undiagnosed ADHD. They might have had low grades, but not a low intelligence. Aggression on the playground probably wasn’t uncommon, and they might have been viewed as a trouble maker or late bloomer.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) lays out specific diagnostic criteria for an appropriate diagnosis. At least 5 symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity type ADHD must be present for at least 6 months for people over age 17; signs should be present to such an extent that they interfere with normal functioning (occupational, social, etc). They may engage in excessive fidgeting, such as tapping the feet or hands or squirming while seated. Additionally, it may be difficult to remain seated when being seated is necessary (such as during a lecture or at the movies). The person may engage in inappropriate running or climbing, although in adults this often translates to constant feelings of restlessness—they may not act on these feelings to the same extent as children.
A lifetime of difficulty engaging in quiet leisure activities is also likely—they may dislike these activities or simply avoid them. Hyperactive people may seem like they are constantly going and moving, always finding something else to do. Socially, relationships are often difficult because they tend to talk or chatter excessively and have difficulty waiting for a question to be completely verbalized before they jump in and respond. Likewise, it may be difficult for the person to wait for their turn in conversation or in an activity. To this end, they may have trouble not interrupting conversations or intruding into the activities of others.
