14. Impairment of performance in ADHD

• 14.1. Performance impairment as an ADHD symptom
• 14.2. Performance impairment as symptoms of stress

14.1. Performance impairment as an ADHD symptom¶

Other phrases for the reduced performance in ADHD are “Impaired in own effort” or “Impaired in effort”.

Due to one’s own disorganization (see executive problems), an expectation has often already grown that one’s own efforts will not be (adequately) successful anyway. This hinders one’s own efforts. This leads to a lack of drive, shutting down, refusal.¹²

• Lack of ability to structure work processes causes feeling of being overwhelmed (in adults)³ and increases self-deprecation
• Mood swings prevent consistent work performance (in adults),³ this increases self-deprecation
• New projects are avoided because they would not be completed anyway (for differentiation see also perfectionism)

14.2. Performance impairment as symptoms of stress¶

When stress is severe, performance is impaired.⁴⁵
There is an obstruction of effort due to lack of satisfaction from success or lack of expectation of success (listlessness, shutting down, denial).²
Slight exhaustibility, lack of energy and daytime fatigue are typical symptoms of the approaching end state of burnout.⁶

Feeling overwhelmed is a well-known symptom of stress.⁷⁴