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I didnt know other people lived like that in their head, Howell tells SELF.
Elena Medvedeva/Getty Images
), which prompted her to mention it to the psychiatrist treating her foranxiety.
Unbeknownst to Howell, the two issues often occur together.
She was diagnosed with ADHD shortly after.
How does that happen?
This disorder, when its not managed, can be debilitating, he says.
If you havediabetes, we treat it.
If you have an infection, we treat itand we want people to feel that way about ADHD.
Here are five (sometimes subtle) signs to be aware of.
You find yourself getting distracted by every.
Although scientists arent entirely sure what causes ADHD,researchsuggests genetics plays a pretty big role.
Its highly inheritable, Dr. Vitulano explains.
I like to think of ADHD as a disorder of motivation, Dr. Vitulano explains.
Its reallyhard to be focused on what you want to get done.
You could also feel scattered or forgetful.
Or you cant seem to control where you steer your attention.
Basically, per Dr. Vitulano, you might have a hard time making and adhering to a schedule.
You cant stay on top of work deadlinesor a recent promotion has left you spiraling.
He says that this is also a big reason why some people go undiagnosed until adulthood.
Those kids arent creating a ruckus in the class.
Youre generally having a frustrating time in life (and you dont know why).
inattentiveness or hyperactivity).
Or they might struggle with relationships and dating.
Its sometimes a response to disorganization and impulsivity.
Dr. Khurana adds that people with the condition might also seem hotheaded or have a short fuse.
This can increase the risk of [misusing substances] and employment problems, he says.
It can really lead to a more difficult life.
You have another mental health condition.
Although lots of social media posts suggest that ADHD is easy to identify, the opposite is actually true.
Just by looking at someone, its very hard, Dr. Vitulano notes.
Theres also no single test that a doctor can use to make the call.
About half of people with ADHD have another diagnosis, Dr. Vitulano explains.
This can include anxiety (as Howell has), but the disorder is closely linked todepressionandbipolar disordertoo.
Theres absolutely no shame in it.
