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Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) is a neurobehavioral condition that usually starts during childhood.
ADHD can affect adults as well, whether they were diagnosed in childhood or not.
Untreated ADHD in adults can contribute to low self-esteem, relationship problems, anxiety, and depression.
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The problem is that these signs are often labeled as immaturity or misdiagnosed as anxiety ordepression.
Because people with ADHD frequently have those conditions as well, being misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed then leads to undertreatment.
Estimates suggest that around 2.5% to 5% of the adult population has ADHD.
Some research also suggests that these rates appear to be increasing.
Signs of hyperactivity can involve problems with sitting through work meetings or changing jobs frequently.
These traits tend to present differently than in children, so it is sometimes missed.
This includes both those with ADHD and healthcare providers.
It was previously believed that ADHD was primarily a childhood disorder thatmostly went away as children transitioned to adulthood.
Some studies have suggested that as many as 90% of adults with ADHD have another psychiatric condition.
These behaviors are sometimes called ‘masking.’
Also known as camouflaging or impression management,maskingcan involve actions that are helpful or adaptive at times.
In other cases, these behaviors can be unhealthy or even destructive.
Self-medicating with drugs and alcohol is another way that people attempt to manage or disguise their ADHD traits.
Others may have worries about taking medications to manage their ADHD characteristics.
They may feel they are behind their peers or have not lived up to their full potential.
Not having adequate health insurance problems is still an issue for many people.
Gender,racial, and ethnic inequalitiescan also lead to disparities in the availability and quality of treatment.
This can contribute to a lack of self-confidence,feelings of shame, and poor self-esteem.
ADHD is not a problem that needs to be “fixed.”
It’s a neurotype that should be accommodated and supported.
Having adult ADHD can create challenges, but it also means that you havemany strengths as well.
Treatment for adult ADHD often involves a combination of medications, psychotherapy, skills training, and self-helpstrategies.
Medications
Stimulant medicationsare often used to treat ADHD in both adults and children.Non-stimulant optionsare also available.
Both can be effective, although non-stimulants take longer to work than stimulants.
Psychotherapy
Different types of psychotherapy can help adults learn new strategies to manage their ADHD traits.
Therapy can also be helpful for addressing some of the symptoms of co-occurring conditions.
Self-Help Strategies
Adults With ADHD may benefit from a variety of self-help strategies.
However each person is unique and each strategy will work for everyone.
Summary
While ADHD is often considered a childhood condition, it frequently affects adults as well.
Unfortunately, the condition often goes undiagnosed and untreated in adults.
Untreated ADHD in adults can contribute to a number of complications, including problems with work and relationships.
Effective treatments can include medication, therapy, skills training, and self-help strategies.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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