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6 Symptoms of ADHD in Adults

6 Symptoms of ADHD in Adults

McCartney Paul, Kate Motaung2026-01-14T07:23:13+00:00January 14th, 2026|ADHD/ADD, Featured, Individual Counseling, Men’s Issues, Women’s Issues|

Finding online research about the symptoms of ADHD in adults can be difficult. While there are plenty of articles about symptoms of ADHD in children, the research for adults is limited. However, based on qualitative findings and some quantitative research, here are six behaviors that can signify ADHD in an adult. Possible Symptoms of ADHD in Adults You struggle with restlessness For children, this may look like hyperactivity. In adults, it often feels like an inability to stop fidgeting or perhaps thoughts that run through your mind at a rapid pace. If you find yourself unable to focus on a task because your task makes you think of something else, and then another thought, and then a different thought, this could be a signal of restlessness. Still, other symptoms also need to be present (and comorbidities ruled out) before an ADHD diagnosis can be confirmed. Other symptoms of restlessness might include a fixation on stressful occurrences in your life or others’ lives, getting easily agitated by everyday concerns, or going from frustrated to extreme anger in a short period of time. Restlessness in adults can be a symptom of other issues, so it’s always best to reach out to a counselor at one of our offices to start the diagnostic process. You misplace items frequently Because focus and attention are typically a struggle, one of the symptoms of ADHD in adults that can change from childhood to adulthood is organization. If you were diagnosed as a child, this may mean you did not turn in projects on time, you frequently lost important homework or books, or you had a hard time keeping your room clean. For adults, the struggle with organization can be masked. However, it may be easier for you to recognize if the following “I” statements sound [...]

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How Depression Affects the Whole You: Mind, Body, and Spirit

How Depression Affects the Whole You: Mind, Body, and Spirit

Ashlynn Barnette, Kate Motaung2026-01-13T06:51:21+00:00January 13th, 2026|Depression, Featured, Individual Counseling|

Depression can seem daunting and intense, even scary. Perhaps you’ve wondered whether you or a loved one struggles with depression. Understanding how depression can present and the effects it can have can prove to be empowering.Symptoms of DepressionMaybe you’ve been asked a series of questions by a doctor or provider to determine if depressive symptoms are present. Some common depressive symptoms include:Little interest or pleasure in doing thingsExcessive tiredness/exhaustionLack of appetite or overeatingFeelings of sadnessHopelessnessDifficulty sleeping or sleeping too muchNegative self-talk/self-esteemDifficulty concentratingAbnormal movement cadenceSuicidal tendencySome additional symptoms can be social isolation, lack of motivation, irritability, negative self-talk, negative thoughts about others, or the world. It is important to note that the presence of any of these symptoms does not automatically mean you are depressed.The Whole YouMind, body, spirit – multiple intricate parts make up the whole you. Our Creator made us “fearfully and wonderfully” (Psalm 139:14) in our mother’s womb. Anyone who has studied the human body and all its intricacies can conclude that the body works together to achieve homeostasis.Consider how a “problem” or “issue” in one part of you can affect others. It is common to hear how a defective or weak part of the body can negatively impact another part of the body entirely. The same can be true with mental illness. As we examine the symptoms of depression, let’s look at how other areas of our lives may be feeling the toll as well.The MindDepression can be a result of improper brain functionality, whether it be a “hardware” or “software” issue. Let’s think of “hardware” as the biological components of the brain and “software” as the thoughts. Both can be contributors to symptoms of depression.Our thoughts can have a direct impact on our mood/emotions, physiological responses, and behavior. Additionally, our thoughts can form neural pathways over [...]

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How Can Anger Management in Children Be Helped With Counseling?

How Can Anger Management in Children Be Helped With Counseling?

D. Nicole Ready, Kate Motaung2026-01-13T06:42:58+00:00January 13th, 2026|Anger Issues, Christian Counseling for Children, Featured, Individual Counseling|

What are your evenings at home characterized by? Are you exhausted from the anticipation of your child having another bad day at school? Have you tried positive reinforcement, pep talks, consequences, and times out with no luck? Do explosive emotions, angry outbursts, meltdowns, meanness, tantrums, and aggressive behavior characterize the life of your child? The Need for Anger Management in Children These scenarios might lead parents to seek out the help of a counselor for their child and family. Honestly, even as adults, anger can sometimes get the best of us. Anger can quickly overwhelm us and cause destructive patterns of emotional response. The interesting thing about anger is that it is often a secondary emotion, meaning that there are likely other primary feelings that are hiding underneath the display of anger that need to be identified to bring change to the cycle of negative emotions and behavior. Counseling for anger management and other destructive emotional behavior patterns in children will often begin with psychoeducation. Simply put, initial counseling sessions are used to educate the client about a wide array of emotions. For children, this must be done in an environment where they feel safe and seen. Parents need to find a therapist that they feel comfortable with and one that can build relationally with their child. Approaches to Anger Management in Children Once care is established, you can say, “Let the games begin.” There are many games and activities available to help children begin to learn more about what and why they are feeling so much anger and outrage. Approaching therapy this way with children will allow them to avoid feeling like therapy is punitive. Therapy will allow children who are struggling with big emotions to safely explore all feelings. Over time, children will be able to identify [...]

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Controlling or Repressing Anger? Addressing Repressed Anger

Controlling or Repressing Anger? Addressing Repressed Anger

Bryan Ferguson, Kate Motaung2026-01-12T10:16:11+00:00January 12th, 2026|Anger Issues, Featured, Individual Counseling|

For the most part, whenever the topic of anger comes up, the call is to control our anger better and find ways to blow off steam to avoid bringing destruction into our lives and relationships. It can feel odd to then say that in some instances, a person may not be angry enough. There are many different issues a person may have with anger, and sometimes that might include avoiding it or pretending it doesn’t exist. The Idea Of Repressing Anger At first glance, telling someone that they need to recognize and not hold back their anger may seem like inviting disaster. There are way too many people in our world who feel comfortable being angry in ways that cause harm to others. This happens in parking lots, on the internet, in homes, on playgrounds, in the workplace, at restaurants, and anywhere else you can think of. However, there are some good reasons for a call to recognize and express anger. For one thing, not every expression of anger is healthy. The main problem with a lot of the anger we encounter is that it’s unhealthy, both for the person expressing it and for the people around them who are subjected to it. This is a huge reason those who shy away from anger do so. Healthy expressions of anger do exist, and you’ve likely experienced them without recognizing them as such. When you hold your anger back and don’t express it, it can be just as damaging as when you express it in an unhealthy way that causes harm to you and other people. A person can choose to deal with anger in several ways, including repressing or suppressing it. These two ideas are connected, but somewhat different. When a person suppresses their anger, they are consciously hiding [...]

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Dealing With the Loss of a Parent

Dealing With the Loss of a Parent

Sarah Harris, Kate Motaung2026-01-08T06:00:29+00:00January 8th, 2026|Featured, Grief Counseling, Individual Counseling|

Everything changes, and things don’t stay the same. These common reminders are especially true when something as tragic as the loss of a loved one occurs. In particular, the loss of a parent can set off a variety of emotions, thoughts, and memories that reinforce the painful reality that things don’t stay the same. If you lose a parent, there are healthy and unhealthy ways of dealing with the loss and grief that follows. Ways of Losing a Parent The loss of a parent can happen in different ways. Loss occurs in myriad ways. Generally, when we refer to loss, it typically means the death of a loved one. When a parent dies, whether through illness, suddenly, or as the result of old age, it is a deep loss, even when it’s expected. It’s also important to acknowledge that loss occurs in other ways as well. Sometimes, a person feels guilty for grieving their parent because their loss doesn’t look the same as what others have experienced. Loss can sometimes be more ambiguous, like if a parent abandons you and their whereabouts or circumstances are unknown. Loss can also occur if your parent has a degenerative condition like Alzheimer’s or dementia, which can feel like losing pieces of your parent each day. If your parent is terminally ill, their ill health and slow decline can result in anticipated grief. It can feel as though you’ve already lost them before it actually happens. Loss, then, takes many forms, but regardless of its guise, the grief that comes with that loss is real. Losing a Parent – Distinct from Other Forms of Loss It’s never wise to compare different forms of loss or pain. Each situation is unique, and you shouldn’t have to justify the pain you feel. All forms of grief [...]

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7 Types of Behavioral Problems in Children

7 Types of Behavioral Problems in Children

Melissa Plantz2025-12-31T06:33:11+00:00December 31st, 2025|Christian Counseling for Children, Christian Counseling For Teens, Family Counseling, Featured, Individual Counseling|

Children often react in ways that frustrate their parents. However, when should you be concerned about behavioral problems? When are their actions no longer typical and become an issue? Knowing the common behavioral problems in children can help you navigate this season and ask for support when needed. 7 Common Types of Behavioral Problems in Children Temper tantrums, outbursts, hitting other people, and knocking over things are common behaviors in children with behavioral problems, but so are changes in sleep patterns and appetite, social withdrawal, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. There are several types of behavioral problems in children that are often categorized as disruptive behaviors, neurodevelopmental disorders, or emotional disorders. ADHD Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disruptive behavior disorder characterized by the inability to focus and concentrate, disorganization, fidgeting, and sometimes impulsive behaviors. Children with ADHD may forget more often or lose homework. They can be impatient at times. Unfortunately, many adults label ADHD children as difficult, which can lead to children fulfilling the adults’ expectations, making their behavior worse. Oppositional Defiant Disorder Children go through rebellious stages, but children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder constantly argue with others, have issues with authority, blame others for their own mistakes, and try to annoy other people. They break the rules and question why they should have to follow them in the first place. They may hit others and say mean things. A child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder may find it hard to make and keep friends unless they learn how to manage their behavioral problems. Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder. The spectrum runs from mild symptoms to severe. One child with autism may only suffer from social interaction issues and the inability to relate to others and empathize. In contrast, another child may have communication [...]

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Fighting Negative Body Image

Fighting Negative Body Image

Ashlynn Barnette, Kate Motaung2025-12-20T06:39:45+00:00December 22nd, 2025|Featured, Individual Counseling, Personal Development, Women’s Issues|

Perfect bodies. Perfect hair. Perfect clothing. Everywhere we look, we see society’s ideals of beauty and health. Yet, these ideals are unrealistic. Often, images are edited, filtered, touched up, or created by AI. But the outcome can leave us feeling inadequate and unattractive. Negative body image results in low self-esteem, poor self-confidence, and a dislike of the body and appearance. We stop taking opportunities because of self-consciousness. However, you can learn to fight negative body image and boost body positivity. What is negative body image? Negative body image is how you perceive yourself, often comparing yourself to others or society’s ideals, or listening to judgmental voices of other people. Negative body image can have a major impact on a person’s mental health. It can trigger anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and a loss of confidence. People with a negative body image may also find it difficult to maintain relationships, especially intimate ones. They may form toxic relationships or distance themselves from their spouse because they feel uncomfortable. Negative body image also contributes to extreme behavior, such as looking at oneself in the mirror excessively and having extreme or numerous cosmetic surgeries to attain a particular look. Even after all of these changes, an individual with negative body image may still feel unattractive. Overcoming negative body image requires acknowledging that there may be something missing, some deeper reason behind the thoughts and fears. Boost positive body image To overcome negative body image, we need to boost positive body image. A positive body image appreciates the body that you have, right now. It acknowledges the body’s capabilities and usefulness. It also makes us more aware of who we are aside from our appearance. When you appreciate your body for where it is now, you feel a sense of confidence and worth. You [...]

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Mental Disorders in Children: 6 Signs Your Child May Need Help

Hannah Parks, Kate Motaung2025-12-09T08:35:33+00:00December 9th, 2025|Christian Counseling for Children, Family Counseling, Featured, Individual Counseling|

Childhood is a precious time. Children play, make friends, and absorb knowledge in everything they do. It is a moment in a parent’s life that they will look back and wish their children were that age again. But for some, childhood brings the emergence of mental disorders. Many mental conditions display signs in the teenage years or as early as grade school age. Signs That Your Child Might Need Help Kids display signs of mental disorders, although they may be subtle initially. These conditions affect emotional, mental, cognitive, and behavioral health. Not all children complain or can explain that they feel “off.” Academic Problems Slipping grades, fights at school, problems with friends, and defiant behavior toward teachers and authority could be a sign of a mental condition. By eliminating other factors, such as bullying, your doctor can better pinpoint the root of the problem and determine an accurate diagnosis. Behavioral Issues Fighting, hitting, arguing, isolating, and other behavioral issues could indicate that something isn’t right. If your child’s behavior escalates to the point that teachers and authorities need to step in or if your child withdraws from the world, a professional mental health assessment may be due. Appetite Changes Appetite changes can be subtle. You may not notice if your child is eating too little or too much for a while, especially in a busy household. Take note of your child’s appearance. Do they seem to be rapidly gaining or losing weight? Watch them at mealtimes and observe if they are snacking excessively. Childhood and the teenage years are particularly prone to developing eating disorders, which can also coexist with other mental health conditions. Sleep Changes Your child may not express any sleep issues, so you may need to observe their physical appearance and behavior. Many mental disorders can cause [...]

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The Link Between ADHD Procrastination and Perfectionism

The Link Between ADHD Procrastination and Perfectionism

Bryan Ferguson, Kate Motaung2025-12-06T07:34:06+00:00December 8th, 2025|ADHD/ADD, Featured, Individual Counseling|

Many people with ADHD are seen to be lazy or disinterested in their studies, tasks at work, friendships, and even in their romantic relationships. This is because most of those with ADHD are procrastinators, frequently leaving things unfinished and appointments unattended. While it might be easy for others to judge them, the truth is that their tendency to procrastinate is far more complex than it would seem. The tendency to procrastinate in people with ADHD is often linked to an instinctive need they have to make things perfect. In other words, ADHD-related procrastination goes hand in hand with perfectionism, and it’s important to understand why. More Than Meets the Eye People with ADHD are frequently the subjects of misunderstanding and undeserved contempt. They are seen to be rude, standoffish, uncaring, exhausting, too direct, and perhaps worst of all, lazy. In truth, those with ADHD are as imperfect as every other person. Like all of us, they may exhibit these character flaws. There is, however, often a deeper reason as to why they are perceived in these ways. They might not be able to articulate the reasons if questioned, but many neurodiverse people are impacted by the judgments people pass on them. Your loved one or coworker with ADHD is not overemotional; they have struggles regulating their emotions. They are not as careless and disorganized as they are impaired in punctuality and planning. They are not disinterested, disengaged, or lazy because they fail to complete tasks, miss deadlines, or fail to produce results. They are most likely afraid to fail, have standards that are too high to attain, or might be paralyzed by self-doubt. Most people with ADHD struggle in ways you could never understand as a neurotypical person. They require patience, and you refrain from judging them if they [...]

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Social Media and Body Image: When Filters Distort Reality

Social Media and Body Image: When Filters Distort Reality

Sarah Harris, Kate Motaung2025-12-04T07:22:38+00:00December 4th, 2025|Featured, Individual Counseling, Personal Development|

Chances are that you’ve done this or are doing it right now: scrolling. You’re just checking your feed, right? No big deal. But before long, you begin to feel it. That little ache in your chest, or the pit of your stomach, and the faint whisper in your ear that says that you’re not as attractive or accomplished as those images on the tiny screen. You’re certainly not thin enough after that hearty breakfast. You’re obviously not strong enough because you succumbed to checking out “his” social media again. You must not be attractive enough since all those in your social circle seem to be finding love, and you’re not. Social media often tells you that you’re not enough in some measurable way. Social media is supposed to connect us, hence the inclusion of the word “social” in the name. And sometimes it does exactly what it is supposed to do. It brings joy, celebration, and builds community. But for many, especially women and young people, it also provides a critical mirror that distorts reality. It becomes a filter for lies and a highlight reel that confidently celebrates everyone else’s wins and quietly chips away at your self-esteem. When life is going great, you might enjoy consuming a few images from influencers, fitness gurus, or even peeking into the lives of your most accomplished and polished friends. And there might not be any harm in doing that occasionally. But there are times when social media can become toxic to consume. Somewhere between the endless reels and the perfectly posed selfies, your brain starts comparing. And comparison, as has been said, is the thief of joy, but it is also the thief of identity. You were never meant to find your identity in the confusing halls of the internet or to [...]

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