Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is often only associated with school aged children. Many picture children running around, struggling to sit still or unable to focus in class. This neurobehavioral condition does develop in childhood. It is, in fact, the most prevalent emotional condition among children in the United States and is usually diagnosed between the ages 4 and 17. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), though, younger children can also develop ADHD. Though ADHD develops in childhood it doesn’t only impact children.

Approximately 4 to 5 percent of the American adult population experience symptoms, but many do not receive proper diagnosis or treatment. A large predisposing factor in having adult ADHD is having had it as a child. According to a study published in the Pediatrics Journal, “… about a third of those diagnosed as children continue to have ADHD as adults, and more than half of those adults have another psychiatric disorder as well.” While many children can outgrow ADHD, especially with diagnosis and treatment, it can also carry over into adulthood.

Considering the obligations and challenges of adulthood, life can become a balancing act. ADHD symptoms can lead to forgetfulness, disorganization and tardiness causing serious repercussions in balancing the many aspects of your life. Recognizing ADHD in childhood can be important in decreasing the impacts of symptoms in adulthood. Learning more can be helpful as well as counseling.

The Realities of Adult ADHD

ADHD could very well have started when you were young. These symptoms can extend into your adulthood, particularly if your ADHD had not been diagnosed and treated as a child. “In the largest study of its kind, researchers at Boston Children’s Hospital and Mayo Clinic found that close to a third of children with ADHD — 29.3% — still have the disorder as adults, along with an increased rate of other psychiatric problems.” According to Dr. William Barbaresi, the lead researcher, “it is a continuing health issue that deserves a lot more attention than it has received.”

The condition is more noticeable while it is developing during childhood. Being young, children are less able to restrain their responses causing their hyperactive and impulsive symptoms to become more noticeable and disruptive. Symptom manifestation can change over the lifespan. ADHD symptoms may become pronounced and reckless during adolescence, but often they become less noticeable toward adulthood. As an adult, you are likely to have learned strategies that can help temper impulsivity, difficulty with focus etc., even when symptoms are still intrusive.

Unfortunately, ADHD was often misdiagnosed in the past. Diagnosis requires that symptoms were present before the age of twelve. This can pose some challenges especially if symptoms went unnoticed or addressed for many years. While ADHD may not develop in adulthood, symptoms can certainly persist and impact functioning later in life.

Do You Have Adult ADHD Symptoms?

The signs and symptoms of ADHD may not be easy to spot, as they vary from one individual to another. It may present differently in adults and it may also change as you get older. Hence, the chance that you may not be diagnosed until much later into your adulthood is high. As ADHD becomes more well known, this will hopefully begin to change. Without knowledge of ADHD, a child may be labeled as a troublemaker, a dreamer, a poor student, etc. As an adult, you could also be judged for lack of organization, difficulty completing tasks on time, struggling to follow instructions, etc.

Knowledge is power. According to Help Guide, “In adults, attention deficit disorder often looks quite different than it does in children—and its symptoms are unique for each individual.”

Inattention is a common symptom, so you could have difficulty concentrating and staying focused, especially on matters that don’t interest you. Some related symptoms include being easily distracted, poor listening skills, and “zoning out” in the middle of a conversation. Alternatively, you could be “hyper-focused” or overly focused on things that you find fascinating. It is also common among adults with ADHD to be forgetful and disorganized. Impulsivity is another common indicator, so you may act, react or say things before thinking.

Most of these symptoms can bring about emotional challenges. If you are having a hard time regulating your reactions and feelings, you may feel frustrated and angry when things don’t happen the way you want them to. You could become more sensitive to comments and criticisms. You may also find yourself experiencing racing thoughts, boredom, excessive talking, persistent fidgeting, multitasking, risk taking, etc. Adult ADHD may also contribute to low self-esteem, lowered motivation and self-doubt.

How Can ADHD Affect You?

Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD can cause wide-reaching problems in almost every aspect of your life. People around you can get fed up because of unmet expectations, tardiness or inability to complete tasks on time, inattention and lack of focus, impulsiveness, etc. These symptoms can complicate relationships with your loved ones, friends, peers and fellow workers.

Adult ADHD can also contribute to an assortment of health concerns. It may even result in recklessness which may increase your vulnerability to substance abuse and accidents. Your health may also be affected if you overlook your medical appointments, forget to take your medications at the right time, or have difficulty following medical advice or instructions. ADHD may likewise bring about work and financial challenges. It can contribute to strong feelings of failure, especially if you find it difficult to keep a job, pursue a career or climb the “corporate ladder.”

ADHD, even in adults, can lead to embarrassment and/or feelings of hopelessness, distress, frustration, and loss of confidence. You may experience poor self-esteem, as you fail to achieve your goals and adapt to vital aspects of your life. If your ADHD symptoms affect your listening skills, cause angry outbursts and the inability to fulfill obligations, your relationships with your partner, children and the people you relate with at work can also be strained.

Relieving the Symptoms of ADHD Beyond Childhood

ADHD can very well extend beyond childhood. The symptoms can impair your adult “executive functions” – memory, decision-making, creativity, judgment, and the ability to complete tasks. Thus, it can get in the way of your goals and impact your life, health, relationships and career in many negative ways. If it was missed when you were a child, it is important to recognize symptoms later in life. Counseling can help.

The proper diagnosis of ADHD can be a source of hope and relief. It can help you understand your challenges and realize that it isn’t your fault or a character flaw. Despite how you may be feeling, you aren’t alone, and you can overcome the challenges your symptoms present. With awareness, education and professional help from a caring and qualified expert independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Pinehurst, NC you can move forward. Call today to schedule your first appointment!

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