Have you ever wondered how to spot ADHD in adults? Either in yourself, a loved one, or a colleague?

Adult ADHD often goes undiagnosed because its symptoms can be mislabelled as stress, anxiety, or simply “being disorganised.” But the truth is, undiagnosed ADHD can affect everything – from your relationships to your career and emotional well-being.

Keep reading to learn how to spot ADHD, what signs to look for in adults, and what to do if you suspect someone may be struggling with undiagnosed ADHD.

Why ADHD in Adults Often Goes Unnoticed

While most people associate ADHD with hyperactive children, Adult ADHD is real and often overlooked.

It’s not about bouncing off the walls. It’s about persistent patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation that can quietly sabotage daily life. Many adults with ADHD have spent years thinking they’re just “bad with time,” “lazy,” or “forgetful,” when in fact, their brain is wired differently.

Spotting adult ADHD early can lead to life-changing clarity and support. If you’re asking yourself how to spot someone with ADHD, keep reading. This might just explain everything.

How To Spot ADHD In Adults: 8 Telltale Signs

Here are the most common and most frequently missed signs of adult ADHD:

1. Chronic Disorganisation

Always losing things? Struggling to keep on top of emails or appointments? Adult ADHD often shows up as mental and physical clutter, leading to missed deadlines, unfinished projects, and overwhelming to-do lists.

2. Difficulty With Focus

Not just being distracted by your phone, ADHD can make it almost impossible to concentrate on tasks, even ones you enjoy. Many adults experience “task switching” or zone out during conversations.

3. Restlessness & Fidgeting

Adults with ADHD may not be outwardly hyperactive, but often feel internally restless. You might fidget, tap your feet, or constantly feel like you’re “on edge.”

4. Poor Time Management

Being consistently late, underestimating how long things take, or living in a constant state of urgency could be a sign that your brain struggles with executive function, a hallmark of ADHD.

5. Emotional Sensitivity

ADHD often comes with emotional dysregulation, frequent mood swings, low frustration tolerance, and feelings of rejection or overwhelm.

6. Impulsivity

This might look like interrupting others, blurting things out, overspending, or making risky decisions without thinking them through.

7. Trouble Following Through

You start projects with enthusiasm… but rarely finish them. If your life is full of unfinished ideas, you’re not alone. This is a classic sign of adult ADHD.

8. Exhaustion from Masking

Many people with undiagnosed ADHD, particularly women, become experts at hiding their struggles. This emotional labour can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression.

What About ADHD in Women?

ADHD symptoms in women often go unnoticed because they don’t always present as hyperactivity. Instead, women with ADHD are more likely to experience:

  • Chronic overwhelm
  • High-functioning anxiety
  • Perfectionism
  • People-pleasing tendencies
  • Intense emotional responses

If this sounds familiar, our dedicated ADHD assessment for women can help you explore your symptoms in a safe, non-judgmental space.

What To Do If You Recognise These Signs

If reading this made you feel seen, it’s not a coincidence. Thousands of adults are now discovering that ADHD explains the struggles they’ve carried for decades.

Here’s what to do next:

1. Take a Self-Assessment

Start with our free online ADHD questionnaire. It takes just a few minutes and could offer life-changing insight.

2. Learn About the Benefits of a Diagnosis

Getting a formal diagnosis isn’t about labelling yourself, it’s about finally understanding your brain. Read more on why to consider an ADHD diagnosis and how it can empower your life.

3. Book a Professional ADHD Assessment

Our adult ADHD assessment service offers compassionate, expert-led evaluations. They’re fully confidential, fully personalised.

4. Explore Treatment Options

You’re not alone, and you don’t have to keep struggling. From therapy to medication, our ADHD treatment options are designed to help you regain control and rediscover your strengths.

Still Not Sure? You're Not Alone

Many adults ask themselves: “Do I really have ADHD, or am I just lazy?”

This kind of self-doubt is common, but not helpful.

At Neuroaffinity, we specialise in supporting adults through every step of the ADHD journey, with expert advice, clarity, and care. If you’re unsure whether to take the next step, browse our Adult ADHD FAQs for clear, reassuring answers.

Act Now and Get the Diagnosis You Deserve

The longer ADHD goes undiagnosed, the more damage it can quietly do.

Careers may stall. Relationships can strain. And confidence erodes. But with the right support, that can change quickly and dramatically.

Don’t wait until burnout forces your hand.

If you suspect ADHD might be affecting you or someone you love, take the first step and book an appointment today!