Newark, NJ – Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, widely associated with children, also affects millions of adults — often undiagnosed. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) says symptoms that begin in childhood can continue into adulthood, disrupting work, relationships, and daily life.
Adults with ADHD typically show patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. They may struggle to stay organized, follow instructions, manage time, or finish projects. Restlessness, multitasking, and risk-taking behaviors are also common. Symptoms must be present in more than one setting — such as at work and at home — and last at least six months to qualify for diagnosis.
Unlike in children, where six symptoms are required, adults need to show five or more signs of either inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity. Diagnosis often involves clinical interviews, checklists, psychological testing, and reports from family or childhood records to confirm symptoms began before age 12.
Many people are not diagnosed until later in life, particularly women, whose symptoms were often overlooked in childhood. Experts say effective treatment can ease daily struggles and improve quality of life.
Treatment options for adults include medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and coaching to build organizational skills. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise, can also help. In some cases, workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are available.
Support is widely accessible. The Attention Deficit Disorder Association and Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) provide resources and support groups. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also offers guidance on symptoms and treatment.
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Experts stress it is never too late to seek a diagnosis. Recognizing ADHD in adulthood can open the door to strategies and treatments that make everyday life more manageable.
Key Points
- ADHD often continues into adulthood, affecting work, relationships, and daily functioning.
- Diagnosis requires symptoms beginning before age 12, with adults showing at least five signs of inattention or hyperactivity.
- Treatment includes medication, therapy, coaching, and lifestyle changes, with resources available nationwide.