Yes, your ADHD can indeed influence how you perceive yourself and how you feel in terms of maturity and age-appropriate behavior. ADHD can impact various aspects of executive functioning, which includes skills like planning, organizing, time management, and impulse control. These executive function difficulties can affect your ability to navigate certain responsibilities and tasks that are commonly associated with being an 18-year-old.
Feeling like a child or struggling with age-appropriate behavior does not mean you are immature; it's just an effect of how ADHD can affect cognitive and behavioral patterns. Here are some ways ADHD might contribute to these feelings:
Delayed Development: Some individuals with ADHD may experience a developmental lag compared to their peers in certain areas. This can make it feel like you are not on par with others your age when it comes to handling responsibilities, making decisions, or staying organized.
Impulsivity: Impulsivity is a common symptom of ADHD. It may lead you to act on immediate desires without fully considering the consequences, which can be perceived as childish behavior.
Hyperactivity: While hyperactivity may decrease as you reach adulthood, it can still manifest as fidgeting, restlessness, or an inability to sit still, which might not align with the typical behavior expected of an 18-year-old.
Time Perception: Difficulty with time management and a skewed perception of time can make it harder to meet deadlines or schedule tasks appropriately, making you feel less independent or responsible.
Social Challenges: ADHD can impact social interactions, leading to difficulties in maintaining friendships or navigating social situations, which might affect your sense of maturity.
It's crucial to remember that everyone's development is unique, and ADHD affects individuals differently. Feeling like a child does not define your worth or intelligence. Many people with ADHD, with the right support, learn to manage their challenges and excel in various areas of life.
If you haven't already, consider seeking professional help from a psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD. They can provide you with strategies, coping mechanisms, and support to navigate your challenges and enhance your strengths. Additionally, joining support groups or connecting with others who have ADHD can help you feel less isolated and provide valuable insights into managing ADHD in adulthood.