Adhd u dorosłych to zespół nadpobudliwości psychoruchowej u dorosłych
Objawy
Zespół nadpobudliwości psychoruchowej u dorosłych (ADHD) to przewlekłe zaburzenie neurozwojowe, którego objawy rozpoczynają się we wczesnym dzieciństwie i utrzymują się w dorosłości, choć ich charakter może ulegać zmianom. U dorosłych dominują trudności z koncentracją uwagi, impulsywność oraz niepokój, a nadaktywność często przejawia się jako wewnętrzny niepokój. Diagnoza opiera się na obecności co najmniej pięciu uporczywych objawów zaburzeń uwagi i/lub nadaktywności-impulsywności, które muszą występować w dwóch lub więcej środowiskach oraz zakłócać funkcjonowanie społeczne, zawodowe lub edukacyjne, z początkiem objawów przed 12. rokiem życia. ADHD u dorosłych często współwystępuje z innymi zaburzeniami psychicznymi, takimi jak depresja, lęk czy zaburzenia obsesyjno-kompulsywne, a około 80% pacjentów doświadcza co najmniej jednego współistniejącego zaburzenia. Dysregulacja emocjonalna dotyczy około 70% dorosłych z ADHD i jest kluczowym elementem obrazu klinicznego. Objawy mogą nasilać się w sytuacjach stresowych oraz w okresach zmian hormonalnych, np. w ciąży czy menopauzie.
ADHD u dorosłych to zespół nadpobudliwości psychoruchowej u dorosłych – objawy i progresja
Zespół nadpobudliwości psychoruchowej u dorosłych (ADHD) to zaburzenie neurozwojowe charakteryzujące się utrzymującym się zespołem objawów, takich jak trudności z koncentracją uwagi, nadaktywność i impulsywne zachowanie. ADHD u dorosłych może prowadzić do niestabilnych relacji, słabych wyników w pracy lub szkole, niskiej samooceny i innych problemów.1 Chociaż nazywamy to ADHD u dorosłych, objawy rozpoczynają się we wczesnym dzieciństwie i utrzymują się w dorosłości. W niektórych przypadkach ADHD nie jest rozpoznawane ani diagnozowane, dopóki dana osoba nie osiągnie dorosłości.12
Ewolucja objawów ADHD w dorosłości
Objawy ADHD u dorosłych mogą nie być tak wyraźne jak objawy ADHD u dzieci. U dorosłych nadaktywność może się zmniejszyć, ale problemy z impulsywnością, niepokojem i trudnościami z koncentracją uwagi mogą się utrzymywać.1 Niektóre osoby z ADHD mają mniej objawów wraz z wiekiem, ale u niektórych dorosłych utrzymują się poważne objawy, które zakłócają codzienne funkcjonowanie.13
Objawy ADHD mogą zmieniać się z czasem i mogą wyglądać inaczej w starszym wieku. Nadaktywność, na przykład, może zmniejszyć się lub przejawiać jako skrajny niepokój. Objawy mogą również stać się bardziej dotkliwe, gdy zwiększają się wymagania dorosłości.4 ADHD jest schorzeniem trwającym całe życie, nie ustępuje i nie ma sposobu, aby je wyleczyć. Jednak badania pokazują, że nasilenie objawów zmniejsza się u starszych dorosłych, szczególnie po 60. roku życia.56
Główne typy ADHD u dorosłych
Na podstawie objawów osoba może zostać zdiagnozowana z jednym z trzech typów ADHD: z przewagą zaburzeń uwagi, z przewagą nadaktywności-impulsywności lub typu mieszanego.7 Najczęstszym typem ADHD w dorosłości jest typ z przewagą zaburzeń uwagi (ADHD-I). ADHD-I jest również najczęstszym typem u dziewcząt w dzieciństwie, a objawy zaburzeń uwagi utrzymują się w dorosłości dłużej niż objawy nadaktywności-impulsywności, częściej obserwowane u chłopców.8
Objawy ADHD u dorosłych
U dorosłych z ADHD główne cechy mogą obejmować trudności z koncentracją uwagi, impulsywność i niepokój. Objawy mogą wahać się od łagodnych do ciężkich.1 Dorośli z ADHD mogą mieć trudności z koncentracją i ustalaniem priorytetów, co prowadzi do przegapiania terminów i zapominania o spotkaniach lub planach towarzyskich. Niezdolność do kontrolowania impulsów może wahać się od niecierpliwości podczas czekania w kolejce lub prowadzenia samochodu w korku do wahań nastroju i wybuchów gniewu.9
Objawy zaburzeń uwagi
Osoby z typem zaburzeń uwagi ADHD mogą doświadczać następujących objawów:1011
- Trudności z koncentracją na zadaniach i często rozpraszanie się 3
- Dezorganizacja i prokrastynacja 3
- Złe zarządzanie czasem, planowanie lub organizacja 3
- Trudności z zapamiętywaniem codziennych zadań 3
- Częste gubienie rzeczy lub zapominanie o codziennych czynnościach 3
- Trudności ze skupieniem się na dużym zadaniu lub wielozadaniowością 3
- Trudności w przestrzeganiu instrukcji lub kończeniu projektów 3
- Niedbałość o szczegóły i popełnianie bezmyślnych błędów 12
- Unikanie, niechęć lub opór przed angażowaniem się w zadania wymagające długotrwałego wysiłku umysłowego 12
Objawy nadaktywności-impulsywności
Osoby z typem nadaktywności-impulsywności ADHD mogą doświadczać:1011
- Trudności z pozostaniem w bezruchu przez dłuższy czas i często poruszanie się lub wiercenie 3
- Uczucie niepokoju i potrzeba ciągłej aktywności lub stymulacji 3
- Wybieranie natychmiastowych nagród zamiast przyszłych korzyści lub konsekwencji 3
- Nadmierne gadulstwo 12
- Częste przerywanie innym lub bycie bardzo gadatliwym 3
- Kłopoty z oczekiwaniem na swoją kolej 12
- Trudności z wykonywaniem czynności wymagających ciszy 11
- Wtrącanie się lub przejmowanie tego, co robi ktoś inny 13
- Częste wahania nastroju lub łatwe popadanie w gniew 13
Objawy typu mieszanego
Osoby z typem mieszanym ADHD wykazują zarówno objawy zaburzeń uwagi, jak i nadaktywności-impulsywności. Osoba może zostać zdiagnozowana z typem mieszanym ADHD, jeśli ma co najmniej sześć objawów zaburzeń uwagi i co najmniej sześć objawów nadaktywności-impulsywności.1014
Wpływ ADHD na życie dorosłych
ADHD może wpływać na to, jak osoba dorosła czuje się w odniesieniu do siebie i jak angażuje się w otaczający ją świat. Bez odpowiedniego leczenia dziecko lub dorosły z ADHD może mieć niską samoocenę, słabe wyniki w nauce i niemożność osiągnięcia pełnego potencjału, trudności w sytuacjach społecznych, zwiększone ryzyko rozwoju zaburzeń związanych z używaniem substancji w późniejszym wieku, częste wypadki drogowe i urazy oraz trudności w zdobyciu i utrzymaniu pracy.15
Wpływ na karierę zawodową
Dorośli z ADHD mogą borykać się z problemami w swojej karierze zawodowej. Takie wyzwania mogą obejmować:16
- Trudności z utrzymaniem pracy w pełnym wymiarze godzin 16
- Problemy ze znalezieniem pracy i dyskryminacja w zatrudnieniu 16
- Częsta zmiana pracy 16
- Problemy z wykonywaniem pracy na czas i dotrzymywaniem terminów 16
- Zapominanie o ważnych datach, spotkaniach lub szczegółach zadań 16
- Problemy z przestrzeganiem instrukcji lub zwracaniem uwagi na szczegóły 16
- Popełnianie bezmyślnych błędów 16
- Konflikty ze współpracownikami lub niemożność kontrolowania gniewu w miejscu pracy 16
- Łatwe uleganie stresowi i przytłoczeniu do pozornego paraliżu 16
Utrzymanie pracy może być trudne dla osób z ADHD. Często mają trudności z podziałem zadań i przestrzeganiem instrukcji, utrzymaniem organizacji i dotrzymywaniem terminów. Są również skłonni do spóźniania się i popełniania niedbałych błędów. W jednym krajowym badaniu tylko połowa dorosłych z ADHD była zatrudniona w pełnym wymiarze godzin, w porównaniu do 72% dorosłych bez tego zaburzenia. Osoby z ADHD mają również tendencję do zarabiania mniej niż ich rówieśnicy.17
Wpływ na relacje społeczne
ADHD może sabotować małżeństwo i inne relacje. To zaburzenie utrudnia pamiętanie o zobowiązaniach społecznych, urodzinach lub rocznicach, wykonywanie obowiązków domowych i terminowe płacenie rachunków. Dorośli z ADHD mogą łatwo wpadać w złość lub angażować się w lekkomyślne zachowania. Prowadzi to do większej liczby separacji i rozwodów.18
Osoby z ADHD często mają trudności w relacjach z przyjaciółmi, kolegami, rodziną lub partnerami.16 Problemy w relacjach z osobami z ADHD mogą wynikać z trudności z:19
- Organizowaniem dokumentów, ustalaniem priorytetów zadań i szacowaniem ilości czasu potrzebnego na rozpoczęcie i zakończenie projektów na czas 19
- Koncentracją, utrzymaniem i przełączaniem uwagi z jednego projektu na drugi 19
- Pozostaniem czujnym, utrzymaniem wysiłku i przetwarzaniem informacji w rozsądnym czasie 19
- Zapamiętywaniem faktów podczas aktywnego przetwarzania innych informacji 19
- Regulowaniem impulsywności i wychwytywaniem niewerbalnych wskazówek od innych 19
Wpływ na zdrowie psychiczne
Doświadczanie objawów ADHD może powodować frustrację. Jednocześnie wielu dorosłych z ADHD zmaga się z depresją, lękiem lub zaburzeniami obsesyjno-kompulsywnymi. Mają również większą skłonność do palenia tytoniu lub nadużywania narkotyków. Osoby z ADHD mogą ograniczyć te problemy, szukając odpowiedniego leczenia.20
Współwystępujące zaburzenia psychiatryczne są często związane z ADHD: około 80% osób cierpi na co najmniej jedno współistniejące zaburzenie psychiczne.21 U dorosłych z ADHD często występuje dysregulacja emocjonalna, czyli niezdolność do właściwego zarządzania własnymi emocjami, która została uznana za kluczowy objaw ADHD we wszystkich grupach wiekowych.22
Szacuje się, że 70% dorosłych z ADHD doświadcza wahań nastroju (dysregulacji emocjonalnej).23 Dorośli z ADHD często mają niską samoocenę, depresję, lęk i nie są tak adaptacyjni w swoich zdolnościach społecznych w porównaniu do dorosłych bez choroby.24
Progresja ADHD u dorosłych
ADHD to stan przewlekły, rozpoczynający się we wczesnym dzieciństwie, który może utrzymywać się przez całe życie. Szacuje się, że 33-66% dzieci z ADHD będzie miało znaczące objawy związane z ADHD utrzymujące się w dorosłości, co będzie miało znaczący wpływ na edukację, zatrudnienie i relacje międzyludzkie.25
Zmiany objawów z wiekiem
Wraz z wiekiem objawy mogą się zmniejszać, zmieniać lub przybierać inne formy. Dorośli, u których utrzymują się niektóre objawy ADHD z dzieciństwa, ale nie wszystkie, mogą otrzymać diagnozę ADHD w częściowej remisji.26
ADHD utrzymuje się od dzieciństwa do adolescencji w większości przypadków (50-80%), chociaż nadaktywność może z czasem maleć.26 Objawy ADHD rzadko zanikają z wiekiem; około dwie trzecie dzieci z ADHD staje się dorosłymi z ADHD.27
Badanie z 2021 roku sugeruje, że zamiast ustępować, objawy ADHD wahają się w ciągu życia danej osoby. W badaniu okresy rzekomej remisji były przerywane. Około 90% osób z ADHD w dzieciństwie nadal doświadczało objawów w dorosłości.28
Progresja typów objawów
Chociaż ADHD jest uważane za zaburzenie dzieci i zawsze zaczyna się w dzieciństwie, różnice neurologiczne utrzymują się w dorosłości, a około połowa osób nadal wykazuje znaczące objawy behawioralne w dorosłości.29
U dorosłych nadaktywność zwykle objawia się jako niepokój i wiercenie się, a nie jawna nadaktywność ruchowa występująca u małych dzieci.30
Objawy zaburzeń uwagi zwykle pozostają spójne. Jednak dorośli zazwyczaj mają większą kontrolę nad swoim otoczeniem niż dzieci. Dorośli mogą projektować życie, które współgra z ich typem ADHD.31
Czynniki wpływające na nasilenie objawów
Zmiany hormonalne związane z dojrzewaniem, ciążą, menopauzą i menstruacją mogą zwiększyć nasilenie objawów ADHD.32 Wydaje się, że jest to stan, który nasila się i słabnie. W środowisku odgrywa rolę zwiększanie lub zmniejszanie nasilenia czyjejś trudności. Innymi słowy, objawy ADHD mogą mieć tendencję do zaostrzania się, gdy życie staje się stresujące, i łagodnieć, gdy życie jest spokojniejsze.33
Na rokowanie dla dorosłych z ADHD wydają się wpływać: nasilenie objawów, wyniki testów inteligencji, czy osoba z tym schorzeniem ma inne problemy ze zdrowiem psychicznym, a także czy istnieją problemy rodzinne, takie jak problemy ze zdrowiem psychicznym rodziców, problemy rodzinne, wyzwania społeczno-ekonomiczne i czy osoba z ADHD otrzymuje leczenie.24
Diagnoza ADHD u dorosłych
Diagnoza ADHD u dorosłych może być trudna, ponieważ niektóre objawy ADHD są podobne do tych spowodowanych innymi schorzeniami, takimi jak zaburzenia lękowe lub nastroju. Wielu dorosłych z ADHD ma również co najmniej jedno inne zaburzenie zdrowia psychicznego, takie jak depresja lub lęk.34
Kryteria diagnostyczne
Dla postawienia diagnozy ADHD u dorosłych spełnione muszą być następujące kryteria:35
- Doświadczanie obecnie pięciu lub więcej uporczywych objawów zaburzeń uwagi i/lub pięciu lub więcej uporczywych objawów nadaktywności i impulsywności 35
- Objawy muszą być obecne w dwóch lub więcej środowiskach (takich jak szkoła, praca lub dom) 35
- Objawy muszą zakłócać funkcjonowanie w pracy, społeczeństwie lub szkole 35
- Niektóre objawy musiały występować przed 12. rokiem życia 35
Objawy muszą być obecne od co najmniej 6 miesięcy i są nieodpowiednie dla poziomu rozwojowego osoby.36 Istnieją jasne dowody na to, że objawy zakłócają lub obniżają jakość funkcjonowania społecznego, szkolnego lub zawodowego.37
Proces diagnostyczny
ADHD jest diagnozowane wyłącznie przez licencjonowanego klinicystę. Diagnoza jest stawiana klinicznie, poprzez kompleksowy, ustrukturyzowany wywiad mający na celu uzyskanie pełnej historii obecnych i dziecięcych objawów oraz ich negatywnego wpływu na codzienne funkcjonowanie. ADHD nie może być zdiagnozowane wyłącznie za pomocą skal oceny objawów, testów neuropsychologicznych lub obrazowania mózgu.22
Kompleksowa ocena może obejmować jedną lub więcej znormalizowanych skal oceny zachowania. Te kwestionariusze wykorzystują badania porównujące zachowania osób z ADHD z osobami bez ADHD. Wyniki w skalach oceny nie są same w sobie uważane za diagnostyczne, ale służą jako ważne źródło obiektywnych informacji w procesie oceny.38
Jeśli osoba oceniana nie miała niedawnego badania lekarskiego (w ciągu 6-12 miesięcy), zaleca się badanie lekarskie w celu wykluczenia medycznych przyczyn objawów. Niektóre schorzenia, takie jak problemy z tarczycą i zaburzenia napadowe, mogą powodować objawy przypominające objawy ADHD. Badanie lekarskie nie potwierdza ADHD, ale jest niezwykle ważne dla wykluczenia innych schorzeń lub problemów.39
Leczenie ADHD u dorosłych
ADHD najczęściej leczy się za pomocą leków, edukacji, treningu umiejętności i poradnictwa psychologicznego. Połączenie tych metod jest często najskuteczniejszym leczeniem. Leczenie to może pomóc w opanowaniu wielu objawów ADHD, ale nie leczy go. Może minąć trochę czasu, zanim ustali się, co działa najlepiej dla danej osoby.40
Farmakoterapia
Najczęstszymi lekami na ADHD są stymulanty. Może wydawać się ironiczne, że osoby, które są niespokojne lub nadaktywne, otrzymują pomoc od stymulantów. Leki te mogą wyostrzyć koncentrację i ograniczyć rozpraszanie uwagi poprzez dostrajanie obwodów mózgowych, które wpływają na uwagę. Jeśli stymulanty nie pomagają wystarczająco, lekarz może przepisać lek przeciwdepresyjny w celu stabilizacji nastroju lub selektywny inhibitor wychwytu zwrotnego noradrenaliny, taki jak atomoksetyna, który może pomóc w kontrolowaniu impulsywnych zachowań.20
Przeprowadzono znacznie mniej badań dotyczących leków na ADHD u dorosłych niż u dzieci, ale dotychczasowe badania są obiecujące. Badania wykazały, że dorośli przyjmujący stymulanty mają mniej objawów ADHD – a niektóre osoby mogą czuć, że mogą lepiej się koncentrować w ciągu około 30 minut.20
Leczenie farmakologiczne to podstawa leczenia ADHD. Większość badań koncentruje się na lekach dla dzieci, jednak leki te okazały się bezpieczne i skuteczne również u dorosłych.41
Psychoterapia
Większość dorosłych z ADHD osiąga poprawę po rozpoczęciu leczenia farmakologicznego, ale mogą nadal borykać się ze złymi nawykami i niską samooceną. Doradztwo w zakresie ADHD koncentruje się na organizacji, ustalaniu pomocnych rutyn, naprawianiu relacji i doskonaleniu umiejętności społecznych. Istnieją dowody, że terapia poznawczo-behawioralna jest szczególnie pomocna w radzeniu sobie z problemami codziennego życia, które są związane z ADHD.17
Małe badania wykazały, że terapia poznawczo-behawioralna jest pomocna jako wsparcie leczenia farmakologicznego ADHD u dorosłych.42
Leczenie skojarzone
Najbardziej skuteczną metodą leczenia dorosłego ADHD jest połączenie leków i terapii.35 Leczenie ADHD u dorosłych może obejmować terapię poznawczo-behawioralną (CBT), praktyki oparte na uważności, grupy wsparcia ADHD i coaching ADHD.35
W przypadku dorosłych ze współistniejącą depresją wykazano, że połączenie leków przeciwdepresyjnych i stymulantów jest bezpieczne i skuteczne.41
Zmiany stylu życia
Proste zmiany w życiu mogą pomóc w zarządzaniu objawami ADHD.43 Regularne ćwiczenia fizyczne, zdrowa dieta i dobre nawyki związane ze snem mogą również przyczynić się do lepszego zarządzania ADHD.44
Ćwiczenia fizyczne są być może najbardziej pozytywnym i skutecznym sposobem na zmniejszenie nadaktywności i braku uwagi wynikających z ADHD. Ćwiczenia mogą złagodzić stres, poprawić nastrój i uspokoić umysł, pomagając pozbyć się nadmiaru energii i agresji, które mogą stanąć na drodze do relacji i poczucia stabilności.45
Sen i ADHD są ze sobą powiązane: deprywacja snu może nasilić objawy ADHD u dorosłych, zmniejszając zdolność do radzenia sobie ze stresem i utrzymania koncentracji w ciągu dnia.46
Chociaż niezdrowe nawyki żywieniowe nie powodują ADHD, zła dieta może zaostrzać objawy. Wprowadzając proste zmiany w tym, co i jak się je, można doświadczyć dużego zmniejszenia rozpraszalności, nadaktywności i poziomów stresu.46
Regularna medytacja uważności może pomóc lepiej opierać się rozproszeniom, obniżyć impulsywność, poprawić skupienie i zapewnić większą kontrolę nad emocjami.46
Prognozy i długoterminowe rokowanie
ADHD nie znika, ale nie musi być stanem upośledzającym. Nie można z niego wyrosnąć, ale leczenie może pomóc w opanowaniu objawów. Dzięki skutecznym terapiom niektóre osoby nie wykazują upośledzenia z powodu objawów ADHD po osiągnięciu dorosłości. Ale dla innych objawy nadal wpływają na ich codzienne życie. Lekarze dostosowują opiekę do indywidualnych potrzeb każdej osoby.15
Dorośli z ADHD nie wyrastają z tego stanu, ale wielu uczy się skutecznie zarządzać swoim stanem. Długoterminowe leczenie może zmniejszyć problemy w domu i w pracy, zbliżając pacjentów do ich rodzin i celów zawodowych.18
Badania wykazały, że leczenie stymulantami tego stanu często poprawia rokowanie dla dorosłych, zmniejszając ryzyko rozwoju innych problemów psychiatrycznych, niepowodzeń w szkole i w świecie pracy.24
ADHD nie musi powstrzymywać przed pełnym życiem i osiąganiem swoich celów. Dorośli, którzy otrzymują w odpowiednim czasie wsparcie i leczenie, często dobrze radzą sobie ze swoimi objawami i rozwijają unikalną strukturę, która umożliwia im bycie najlepszymi, produktywnymi.47
Kolejne rozdziały
Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.
Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.
Materiały źródłowe
- #1 Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878
Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that includes a combination of persistent problems, such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. Adult ADHD can lead to unstable relationships, poor work or school performance, low self-esteem, and other problems. […] Though it’s called adult ADHD, symptoms start in early childhood and continue into adulthood. In some cases, ADHD is not recognized or diagnosed until the person is an adult. Adult ADHD symptoms may not be as clear as ADHD symptoms in children. In adults, hyperactivity may decrease, but struggles with impulsiveness, restlessness and difficulty paying attention may continue. […] Some people with ADHD have fewer symptoms as they age, but some adults continue to have major symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. In adults, the main features of ADHD may include difficulty paying attention, impulsiveness and restlessness. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
- #2 ADHD in Adults: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5197-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-in-adults
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a brain development condition that starts in childhood and continues after you become an adult. This condition causes trouble with maintaining attention, hyperactivity and impulse control difficulties. With treatment, people can usually live fulfilling lives with few or no effects from it. […] In children, ADHD can affect things like school performance and social skills. It can have very similar effects in adults, affecting things like work performance, friendships, relationships and mental health. […] Adult ADHD symptoms look very similar to childhood symptoms. However, they may look slightly different because adult life involves different activities. For example, you may experience job-related symptoms or effects instead of school-related symptoms or effects.
- #3 ADHD in Adults: 4 Things to Know – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/adhd-what-you-need-to-know
ADHD symptoms can cause problems in daily life. ADHD symptoms interfere with daily functioning. In adults, symptoms can lead to: Difficulty paying attention and often getting distracted […] Disorganization and procrastination […] Poor time management, planning, or organization […] Trouble remembering daily tasks […] Frequently losing things or being forgetful in activities […] Frequently interrupting others or being very talkative […] Trouble focusing on a large task or multitasking […] Trouble following instructions or finishing projects […] Difficulty sitting still for long periods and often moving or fidgeting […] Feelings of restlessness and a need for constant activity or stimulation […] Choosing immediate rewards over future rewards or consequences. Many people show some of these behaviors some of the time. However, for adults with ADHD, they are more severe, frequent, and persistent, interfering with daily life, occurring across multiple situations, and lasting at least 6 months. Symptoms continue into adulthood for many people with ADHD, but they may change with age. For instance, inattentive symptoms often persist as people get older, whereas hyperactivity and impulsivity are more likely to decline.
- #4 ADHD in Adults: An Overview | Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/adhd/articles/adhd-across-the-lifetime.html
ADHD symptoms start in childhood and can continue into adulthood, but they may look different in adults. […] ADHD symptoms can change over time and may look different at older ages. Hyperactivity, for example, may decrease or may appear as extreme restlessness. Symptoms may also become more severe when the demands of adulthood increase. The symptoms can cause difficulty at work, at home, or with relationships. […] Adults with ADHD can struggle with managing their attention, completing lengthy tasks unless interesting, staying organized, controlling their behavior, and hyperactive symptoms, such as feeling internally restless and fidgety. […] Especially in times when stress and demands are high, ADHD can cause difficulty with daily tasks, social relationships, consistency in healthy behaviors such as exercise, proper nutrition, and good sleep, and avoiding health risks such as substance use, infections, and injuries.
- #5 ADHD in Adults: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5197-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-in-adults
If you have adult ADHD, the effects that you experience depend on which subtype you have and symptom severity. Medication, therapy and other conventional approaches are usually enough for most people to manage this condition. These treatments allow most people with ADHD to have careers, relationships and families. […] ADHD is a lifelong condition. It doesn’t go away and there’s no way to cure it. However, research shows that the severity of the symptoms tends to decrease in older adults, especially after age 60. […] ADHD isn’t a dangerous condition on its own. If adult ADHD goes untreated especially when it’s more severe it can negatively affect your life in several ways. These include a higher risk for: Injury. Key ADHD symptoms like impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention can all contribute to injuries. This can also increase the risk of mental health conditions like anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- #6 Adult ADHD: Symptoms, Statistics, Causes, Types, and Treatmentshttps://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-adults
No two people with ADHD are exactly alike. You may be able to concentrate if you’re interested in or excited about what you’re doing. But some people with ADHD have trouble focusing under any circumstances. […] If you have adult ADHD, you could have a long-term pattern of issues in many parts of your life. […] Treatment can’t cure ADHD, but it can help manage your symptoms. About 60% of adults who get treatment have fewer symptoms and a better quality of life. […] If you had ADHD as a child, you may have fewer hyperactive symptoms like restlessness when you reach adulthood. But you may still struggle with focus and impulsive behavior. […] Some symptoms may bother you less as time goes on. But you might notice that your ADHD gets worse at times. That might happen when you go through life changes like a new job, the birth of a child, or menopause. Some research has found that ADHD symptoms get better once people pass age 60.
- #7 ADHD in Adults: 4 Things to Know – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/adhd-what-you-need-to-know
Adults can have ADHD. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is marked by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that makes it hard to function in at least two areas of life, such as at home, school, or work. Adults with ADHD may experience the following types of symptoms: Inattention: Difficulty paying attention, staying on task, or being organized […] Hyperactivity: Excessive activity or restlessness, even at inappropriate times, and difficulty engaging in quiet activities […] Impulsivity: Acting without thinking or having trouble with self-control. Based on their symptoms, a person can be diagnosed with one of three types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined. Adults with ADHD often have a history of poor academic performance, work problems, or strained relationships. They may find it challenging to stay organized, stick to a job, keep appointments, perform daily tasks, or complete large projects. They may be restless, try to do multiple things at once, or engage in risky or impulsive behaviors. ADHD is considered a developmental disorder because symptoms must begin in childhood but many adults also have ADHD.
- #8 Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adult_attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder
The most common ADHD presentation in adulthood is predominantly inattentive (ADHD-I). ADHD-I is also the most common presentation for females in childhood, and the symptoms of inattention have been shown to persist into adulthood more than those of the hyperactive-impulsive presentation more commonly observed in boys. […] While ADHD has traditionally been viewed as a childhood disorder that fades with age, growing research has shown that ADHD often persists from childhood into adulthood. Approximately 40-60% of individuals diagnosed with ADHD in childhood continue to exhibit some symptoms of it in adulthood, while approximately 15% continue to meet full diagnostic criteria.
- #9 Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878
Many adults with ADHD aren’t aware they have it they just know that everyday tasks can be a challenge. Adults with ADHD may find it difficult to focus and prioritize, leading to missed deadlines and forgotten meetings or social plans. The inability to control impulses can range from impatience waiting in line or driving in traffic to mood swings and outbursts of anger. […] Adult ADHD symptoms may include: Impulsiveness, Disorganization and problems prioritizing, Poor time management skills, Problems focusing on a task, Trouble multitasking, Excessive activity or restlessness, Poor planning, Low frustration tolerance, Frequent mood swings, Problems following through and completing tasks, Hot temper, Trouble coping with stress. […] Almost everyone has some symptoms similar to ADHD at some point in their lives. If your difficulties are recent or occurred only occasionally in the past, you probably don’t have ADHD. ADHD is diagnosed only when symptoms are severe enough to cause ongoing problems in more than one area of your life. These persistent and disruptive symptoms can be traced back to early childhood.
- #10 10 Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Adults (And When to Get Help) – ADDA – Attention Deficit Disorder Associationhttps://add.org/signs-of-adhd/
Adults with inattentive type ADHD have more difficulty with their focus, attention, and memory. […] You may be diagnosed with inattentive type ADHD if you experience six or more of the above symptoms for six months or longer. […] Someone with hyperactive or impulsive type ADHD is more likely to struggle with symptoms linked to restlessness and poorer impulse control. […] A diagnosis for this type of ADHD may be made if you have six or more of the above symptoms for at least six months. […] A person who persistently struggles with both symptoms of inattention and symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsivity has combined type ADHD. […] You may be diagnosed with combined type ADHD if you have six or more symptoms of inattentive ADHD and six or more symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD.
- #11 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) | NAMIhttps://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/adhd/
Signs of inattention include: Becoming easily distracted, and jumping from activity to activity. Becoming bored with a task quickly. Difficulty focusing attention or completing a single task or activity. Trouble completing or turning in homework assignments. Losing things such as school supplies or toys. Not listening or paying attention when spoken to. Daydreaming or wandering with lack of motivation. Difficulty processing information quickly. Struggling to follow directions. […] Signs of hyperactivity include: Fidgeting and squirming, having trouble sitting still. Non-stop talking. Touching or playing with everything. Difficulty doing quiet tasks or activities. […] Signs of impulsivity include: Impatience. Acting without regard for consequences, blurting things out. Difficulty taking turns, waiting or sharing. Interrupting others.
- #12 Adult ADHD: Symptoms, Test, Diagnosis, and Medicationhttps://www.medicinenet.com/adult_adhd/article.htm
What are adult ADHD symptoms and signs? Signs of ADHD Adults with ADHD may have trouble prioritizing, starting, and finishing tasks. […] Symptoms of ADHD include the following: Inattention: Often makes careless mistakes or pays inadequate attention to detail; Trouble focusing during work or leisure activities; Does not appear to be listening when spoken to directly; Is often unable to complete directions, work tasks, or chores; Frequently disorganized when trying to complete a task or activity; Has a tendency to avoid, dislike, or resist (procrastinate) engaging in activities that require sustained attention; Often loses things that are necessary to complete tasks or activities; Easily distracted by extraneous or unrelated stimuli; Frequent forgetfulness. […] Hyperactivity/impulsivity: Frequently fidgety or moves hands or feet; Frequently has trouble remaining seated; Has a tendency to feel restless; Has difficulty participating in leisure activities quietly; Performs multiple activities at once; Excessive talking; Often interrupts others talking; Trouble waiting for his or her turn; Frequently intrudes on other people; Often does something without thinking about it first (behavioral impulsiveness).
- #13 ADHD in Adults: Symptoms, Challenges, Diagnosis, and Treatment – ADDA – Attention Deficit Disorder Associationhttps://add.org/adhd-in-adults/
The signs of ADHD in adults may be similar to childhood ADHD. But some of these symptoms, especially hyperactivity, may decrease over time, making diagnosis in adults more difficult. […] Symptoms in adults tend to be more subtle. As a result, ADHD can be harder to spot in adults than in children. […] Itâs important to note that many of the symptoms of ADHD can be misinterpreted as personality flaws or character traits in adults. This can lead to internalizing a lot of negative feedback and trying to change things you really canât control without the proper treatment or learning tools. […] Symptoms of ADHD in adults can be divided into two main categories: Hyperactivity and Impulsiveness and Inattention. […] Adults with ADHD may notice symptoms such as fidgeting, tapping hands and feet, or stimming in other ways, uncontrolled tics, constantly feeling restless, unable to sit still for long periods, talking too much, interrupting other people while theyâre talking, finding it difficult to wait their turn, intruding or taking over what someone else is doing, frequent mood swings or easy to anger, and participating in risky behaviors (such as dangerous driving).
- #14 ADD Symptoms vs ADHD Symptoms: 3 Types of Attention Deficit DisorderFooterLogohttps://www.additudemag.com/add-adhd-symptoms-difference/?srsltid=AfmBOopcMRjJ9kuz_rYdQSeNiFiwZjRXxeV9gkhxcEXWhgai4jkQXCin
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-V (DSM-V), six of the following symptoms must be present to warrant a diagnosis of ADHD, Primarily Inattentive Type: Often fails to give close attention to details, or makes careless mistakes; Often has difficulty sustaining attention; Often does not seem to listen when spoken to; Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish projects; Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities; Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort; Often loses things necessary for tasks/activities; Is often easily distracted; Is often forgetful in daily activities. […] Symptoms of Combined Type ADHD occurs if you have six or more symptoms each of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD.
- #15 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4784-attention-deficithyperactivity-disorder-adhd
ADHD can affect how your child feels about themselves and how they engage with the world around them. Without proper treatment, your child may have low self-esteem, poor grades and an inability to reach their full potential, difficulty in social situations, an increased risk of developing substance use disorders when theyre older, frequent driving accidents and injuries, and trouble getting and keeping a job when theyre older. […] ADHD treatments fall into two main groups: behavioral interventions (which teach practical skills) and medications. The exact treatment plan varies according to a persons age and individual needs. […] ADHD doesnt go away but doesnt have to be an impairing condition. You cant outgrow it, but treatment can help manage your symptoms. Thanks to effective treatments, some people dont show impairment from ADHD symptoms once theyve reached adulthood. But for others, symptoms still affect their daily life. Providers tailor care to each individuals needs.
- #16 ADHD in Adults: Symptoms, Challenges, Diagnosis, and Treatment – ADDA – Attention Deficit Disorder Associationhttps://add.org/adhd-in-adults/
Symptoms of inattention in adults with ADHD may present in the following ways: unable to pay attention to details and makes careless mistakes, difficulty staying focused, canât stay focused in conversations, even when there are no distractions, difficulty organizing tasks and belongings, struggles with prioritization and time management, dislikes doing work that requires sustained mental effort and focus, often misplaces important items (keys, wallet, documents, etc.), easily distracted by unrelated thoughts, and forget day-to-day things, like paying bills, appointments, and deadlines. […] Many adults with ADHD donât realize they have it. Undiagnosed ADHD in adults can make it much harder to cope with school, work, and other commitments. […] Adults with ADHD may face problems in their careers. Such challenges may include difficulty maintaining a full-time job, problems getting hired and discrimination in employment, frequently changing jobs, problems with completing work on time and meeting deadlines, forgetting important dates, meetings, or task details, trouble following instructions or paying attention to details, making careless mistakes, conflict with colleagues or inability to control anger in the workplace, and easily stressed and overwhelmed to the point of apparent paralysis.
- #17 ADHD/ADD in Adults: Symptoms & Treatmentshttps://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/ss/slideshow-adhd-in-adults
Most adults with ADHD improve when they start medication, but they may continue to struggle with poor habits and low self-esteem. Counseling for ADHD focuses on getting organized, setting helpful routines, repairing relationships, and improving social skills. There is evidence that cognitive-behavioral therapy is particularly helpful in managing problems of daily life that are associated with ADHD. […] Holding down a job can be tough for people with ADHD. They often have trouble breaking down tasks and following directions, staying organized, and making deadlines. Theyre also prone to tardiness and careless mistakes. In one national survey, only half of adults with ADHD were employed full time, compared to 72% of adults without the disorder. People with ADHD also tend to earn less than their peers.
- #18 ADHD/ADD in Adults: Symptoms & Treatmentshttps://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/ss/slideshow-adhd-in-adults
ADHD can sabotage marriage and other relationships. The condition makes it difficult to remember social commitments, birthdays, or anniversaries, finish household chores, and pay bills on time. Adults with ADHD may lose their tempers easily or engage in reckless behavior. This leads to higher rates of separation and divorce. […] Adults with ADHD dont outgrow the condition, but many learn to manage it successfully. Long-term treatment can reduce problems at home and at work, bringing patients closer to their families and their professional goals.
- #19 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) | NAMIhttps://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/adhd/
Effective medications can improve attention span, your ability to deal with frustration, and lead to better relationships. […] ADHD is one of the conditions most strongly linked to genetics. People with ADHD do not lack intelligence or discipline. They are just challenged at focusing to complete tasks. […] Many of the strategies that help youth with ADHD, including structure, organizational tips and coaching as well as medication can be helpful for adults living with ADHD as well. An individualized approach to treatment that focuses on strengths and circumstances is critical for adult and children. […] One of the major areas of focus for adults living with ADHD is learning to manage the disorder in the workplace. Symptoms can cause difficulties in some or all the following areas: Organizing paperwork, prioritizing tasks and estimating the amount of time it takes to get started on and complete projects on time. Focusing, sustaining and shifting attention from one project to another. Staying alert, sustaining effort and processing information in a reasonable amount of time. Remembering facts while actively processing other information. Regulating impulsivity and picking up on the nonverbal cues from others.
- #20 ADHD/ADD in Adults: Symptoms & Treatmentshttps://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/ss/slideshow-adhd-in-adults
Coping with the symptoms of adult ADHD can be frustrating in itself. At the same time, many adults with ADHD struggle with depression, anxiety, or obsessive compulsive disorder. Theyre also more likely to smoke or abuse drugs. People with ADHD can limit these problems by seeking proper treatment. […] The most common medicines for ADHD are stimulants. It may seem ironic that people who are restless or hyperactive get help from stimulants. These drugs may sharpen concentration and curb distractibility by fine-tuning brain circuits that affect attention. If stimulants don’t help enough, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant to stabilize mood or a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, such as atomoxetine, which can help control impulsive behaviors. […] There have been far fewer studies of ADHD drugs in adults than in children, but the research to date is promising. Studies have shown adults taking stimulants have fewer ADHD symptoms — and some people may feel they can concentrate better within about 30 minutes.
- #21 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: Epidemiology, clinical features, assessment, and diagnosis – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-in-adults-epidemiology-clinical-features-assessment-and-diagnosis/print
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), one of the most common neuropsychiatric disorders of childhood and adolescence, often persists into adulthood. Studies have found that a majority of people diagnosed with ADHD in childhood continue to meet criteria for the disorder as adults. More recent studies have found that a substantial proportion of those with adult ADHD did not have the condition in childhood. ADHD in adulthood is associated with significant impairment in occupational, academic, and social functioning. […] ADHD in adults is characterized by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and restlessness, resulting in functional impairment. Impairment in executive function is common. Emotional dysregulation is often seen in these patients. […] This topic discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, course, assessment, and diagnosis of ADHD in adults.
- #22 Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adult_attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder
Symptoms of ADHD can vary widely between individuals, and throughout the lifetime of an individual. The difficulties generated by these deficiencies can range from moderate to extreme, resulting in the inability to effectively structure their lives, plan daily tasks, or think of and act accordingly even when aware of potential consequences. Up to 80% of adults may have some form of psychiatric comorbidity, such as depression or anxiety. Emotional dysregulation, or the inability to properly manage one’s emotions, has been found to be a key symptom of ADHD in all age groups. […] ADHD can only be diagnosed by a licensed clinician. Diagnosis is made clinically, via a comprehensive, structured interview with the purpose of obtaining a full history of the individual’s current and childhood symptoms and their negative impact on daily functioning. ADHD cannot be diagnosed via symptom rating scales, neuropsychological tests, or brain imaging alone.
- #23 10 Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in Adults (And When to Get Help) – ADDA – Attention Deficit Disorder Associationhttps://add.org/signs-of-adhd/
Adults with ADHD often run late for meetings, appointments, or social plans. […] Research shows that adults with ADHD are more likely to engage in risk-taking behavior. […] Problems in relationships with friends, colleagues, family, or partners are another common issue for adults with ADHD. […] Adults with ADHD are almost always occupied. However, deciding which task to prioritize can be a challenge. […] ADHD may impact two different kinds of memory. […] An estimated 70% of adults with ADHD experience mood swings (emotional dysregulation). […] If youâre experiencing symptoms like lack of focus, restlessness, or poor memory, you may be concerned that you have ADHD. […] ADHD can be hard to spot in adults. But the more you learn about its signs and symptoms, the more likely you are to recognize them early on.
- #24 Adult ADHD: Symptoms, Test, Diagnosis, and Medicationhttps://www.medicinenet.com/adult_adhd/article.htm
The prognosis for ADHD adults seems to be influenced by the severity of symptoms, scores on intelligence tests, whether the person with the condition has other mental health problems, as well as if there are family issues, such as parental mental health problems, family problems, socioeconomic challenges, and if the individual with ADHD receives treatment. Studies show that stimulant treatment of this condition often improves the prognosis for adults, decreasing the risk for developing other psychiatric problems, failing in school and in the world of work. […] Adults living with ADHD are more likely to have low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and are not as adaptive with their social abilities compared to adults without the illness. The presence of other mental health disorders (co-morbidity) is more likely in adults who are hyperactive and/or impulsive as opposed to being distractible as part of ADHD. Adults with this condition are also more at risk for underachievement in school or at work, being in more car accidents, using tobacco products or other drugs, having problems managing their anger, and are more likely to develop antisocial behaviors, particularly if not treated.
- #25 Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adult_attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder
Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (adult ADHD) refers to ADHD that persists into adulthood. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder, meaning impairing symptoms must have been present in childhood, except for when ADHD occurs after traumatic brain injury. According to the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, multiple symptoms should have been present before the age of 12. This represents a change from the DSM-IV, which required symptom onset before the age of 7. Approximately two-thirds of children with ADHD continue to experience impairing symptoms into adulthood, with symptoms ranging from minor inconveniences to impairments in daily functioning, and up to one-third continue to meet the full diagnostic criteria. […] ADHD is a chronic condition, beginning in early childhood, and can persist throughout a person’s lifetime. It is estimated that 33-66% of children with ADHD will continue to have significant ADHD-related symptoms persisting into adulthood, resulting in a significant impact on education, employment, and interpersonal relationships. Individuals with ADHD exhibit deficiencies in self-regulation and self-motivation, which in turn foster problematic characteristics such as distractibility, procrastination, and disorganization.
- #26 About ADHD – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment – CHADDhttps://chadd.org/about-adhd/overview/
Individuals with ADHD may also have difficulties with maintaining attention, executive function and working memory. Recently, deficits in executive function have emerged as key factors affecting academic and career success. […] As individuals age, their symptoms may lessen, change or take different forms. Adults who retain some of the symptoms of childhood ADHD, but not all, can be diagnosed as having ADHD in partial remission. […] Children with ADHD often experience delays in independent functioning and may behave younger than their peers. Many children affected by ADHD can also have mild delays in language, motor skills or social development that are not part of ADHD but often co-occur. […] ADHD persists from childhood to adolescence in the vast majority of cases (50-80 percent), although the hyperactivity may lessen over time. […] These co-occurring disorders can continue throughout a person’s life. A thorough diagnosis and treatment plan that takes into account all of the symptoms present is essential.
- #27 ADHD Symptoms & Signs of ADHD: Hyperactive, Inattentive, CombinedFooterLogohttps://www.additudemag.com/adhd-symptoms-checklist/?srsltid=AfmBOoqN4UcPdK6KTIrhoJ67Zo3DBy1Df2n0p9nETAXfpXvx1aDcrPzD
ADHD is a brain-based, biological disorder that, according to research, is likely genetic. Researchers suspect that a gene involved in the creation of dopamine, a chemical that controls the brainâs ability to maintain regular and consistent attention, may be traced back to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD). In other words, it is not caused by bad parenting, too much sugar, or too many video games. […] ADHD symptoms rarely disappear with age; roughly two-thirds of children with ADHD become adults with ADHD. A 2019 study found that prevalence of ADHD among adults rose by 123% between 2007 and 2016, and that diagnoses among adults were growing four times faster than ADHD diagnoses among children in the United States. That said, many adults do not receive an ADHD diagnosis until one of their children is diagnosed. Some adults might feel itâs pointless to pursue a diagnosis if ADHD hasnât stopped them from getting married, pursuing a career, or having children. But unmanaged ADHD symptoms can cause job loss, relationship conflict, and substance abuse. Better understanding of ADHD and its three sub-types can help children and adults pursue an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
- #28 ADHD duration: Does it go away, how it changes in adulthood, and morehttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-adhd-go-away
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can affect a persons focus, energy levels, and impulses. Although the condition is commonly thought to affect children, research suggests people do not always outgrow it in adulthood. […] Researchers once believed ADHD was a condition only affecting children. However, more recent studies suggest it is not something children outgrow and that it also affects adults. […] The organization Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) states that because ADHD is a neurological disorder, it is not something people outgrow. Instead, it continues to affect people throughout their lives. […] A 2021 study suggests that rather than going away, ADHD symptoms fluctuate across a persons lifetime. In the study, periods of supposed remission were intermittent. Approximately 90% of people with ADHD in childhood still experienced symptoms in adulthood.
- #29 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – Children’s Health Issues – Merck Manual Consumer Versionhttps://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/learning-and-developmental-disorders/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd
ADHD is a brain condition that is present from birth or develops shortly after birth. […] Although ADHD is considered a disorder of children and always starts during childhood, it may not be recognized until adolescence or adulthood. The neurologic differences continue into adulthood, and about half of people continue to have behavior symptoms in adulthood. […] In adults, symptoms include difficulty concentrating, difficulty completing tasks (poor executive skills), restlessness, mood swings, impatience, and difficulty in maintaining relationships. […] ADHD is primarily a problem with sustained attention, concentration, and task persistence (ability to finish a task). Affected children may also be overactive and impulsive. […] Children with ADHD generally do not outgrow their inattentiveness, although children with hyperactivity tend to become somewhat less impulsive and hyperactive with age. However, most adolescents and adults learn to adapt to their inattentiveness. About one third of people find that they continue to benefit from the use of stimulant medications.
- #30 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – Pediatrics – Merck Manual Professional Editionhttps://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics/learning-and-developmental-disorders/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd
ADHD affects an estimated 5 to 15% of children. […] ADHD is considered a disorder of children and always starts during childhood, the underlying neurophysiologic differences persist into adult life, and behavioral symptoms continue to be evident in adulthood in approximately half of cases. […] In adults, symptoms include difficulty concentrating, difficulty completing tasks (executive function impairments), mood swings, impatience, and difficulty in maintaining relationships. […] Hyperactivity in adults usually manifests as restlessness and fidgetiness rather than the overt motor hyperactivity that occurs in young children. […] Core symptoms and signs of ADHD involve inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. […] Inattention tends to appear when a child is involved in tasks that require vigilance, rapid reaction time, visual and perceptual search, and systematic and sustained listening.
- #31 ADHD: Signs, Symptoms, and Sub-Typeshttps://www.verywellmind.com/adhd-symptoms-4157281
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a type of neurodivergence usually diagnosed during childhood. It is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Understanding the traits of ADHD can help parents distinguish between what might be considered developmentally appropriate rambunctiousness and inattention and the genuine inability to sit still and focus. It can also help adults recognize whether they may have undiagnosed ADHD. […] ADHD traits typically change in adulthood. Hyperactivity becomes less visible to the observer. An adult can sit relatively still, even while feeling an internal restlessness. […] Inattentive traits of ADHD usually remain consistent. However, adults typically have more control over their environment than children do. Adults can design a life that works with their ADHD subtype.
- #32 ADHD: Signs, Symptoms, and Sub-Typeshttps://www.verywellmind.com/adhd-symptoms-4157281
ADHD can also look different throughout the lifespan. The hormone changes associated with puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation can increase the severity of ADHD traits. […] In the past, women living with ADHD were often misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression. Thanks to increased knowledge and research about ADHD traits, more women are being diagnosed correctly.
- #33 Kids with ADHD May Still Have Symptoms as Adults | Scientific Americanhttps://www.scientificamerican.com/article/kids-with-adhd-may-still-have-symptoms-as-adults/
It appears to be a condition that waxes and wanes, Sibley says. There is likely a role of environment in turning up or down the volume of somebodys difficulties. In other words, ADHD symptoms may tend to flare up when life gets stressful and ease when life is calmer. […] Although a few studies have suggested it is possible for ADHD to appear for the first time in adulthood, more recent research indicates that adult onset is highly unlikely. Nearly all such cases are probably either misdiagnoses of another condition, such as substance use or anxiety, or instances in which childhood symptoms were missed, Sibley says. […] Most people who have been diagnosed with ADHD will try medication (usually stimulants such as Ritalin), but within the first year 40 to 50 percent discontinue the pills for at least 180 days, says psychiatric epidemiologist Isabell Brikell of the Karolinska Institute in Sweden.
- #34 Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878
Diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be difficult because certain ADHD symptoms are similar to those caused by other conditions, such as anxiety or mood disorders. And many adults with ADHD also have at least one other mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. […] If any of the symptoms listed above continually disrupt your life, talk to your doctor about whether you might have ADHD.
- #35 ADHD in Adults: Symptoms, Challenges, Diagnosis, and Treatment – ADDA – Attention Deficit Disorder Associationhttps://add.org/adhd-in-adults/
Despite this, a person with ADHD can still be a fantastic parent, spouse, or friend. […] Adults who currently experience five or more persistent symptoms of inattention and/or five or more persistent symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity may be diagnosed with ADHD. […] For a diagnosis to be made, the symptoms you experience must be present in two or more settings (such as at school, work, or home). They must also interfere with how well you function in work, social, or school activities. […] Though termed adult ADHD, adults donât suddenly get ADHD. According to the current diagnostic criteria, ADHD cannot be confirmed unless you experienced some symptoms before age 12. […] The most effective method of treating adult ADHD is using a combination of medication and therapy. […] Managing ADHD as an adult may involve cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, ADHD support groups, and ADHD coaching.
- #36 Diagnosing ADHD | Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/adhd/diagnosis/index.html
ADHD often lasts into adulthood. Symptoms might look different at older ages. For example, in adults, hyperactivity may appear as extreme restlessness or wearing others out with their activity. […] People with ADHD show a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. […] Symptoms of inattention have been present for at least 6 months, and they are inappropriate for developmental level. […] Symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months, and they are inappropriate for the person’s developmental level. […] Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms were present before age 12 years. […] Several symptoms are present in two or more settings, (such as at home, school or work; with friends or relatives; in other activities).
- #37 Diagnosing ADHD | Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/adhd/diagnosis/index.html
There is clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with, or reduce the quality of, social, school, or work functioning. […] The symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder (such as a mood disorder, anxiety disorder, dissociative disorder, or a personality disorder). The symptoms do not happen only during the course of schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder.
- #38 Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults – CHADDhttps://chadd.org/for-adults/diagnosis-of-adhd-in-adults/
Several of the symptoms must have been present prior to age 12. This generally requires corroboration by a parent or some other informant. It is important to note that the presence of significant impairment in at least two major settings of the person’s life is central to the diagnosis of ADHD. Impairment refers to how ADHD interferes with an individual’s life. Examples of impairment include losing a job because of ADHD symptoms, experiencing excessive conflict and distress in a marriage, getting into financial trouble because of impulsive spending, failure to pay bills in a timely manner or being put on academic probation in college due to failing grades. […] A comprehensive evaluation can include one or more standardized behavior rating scales. These questionnaires use research comparing behaviors of people with ADHD to those of people without ADHD. Scores on the rating scales are not considered diagnostic by themselves but serve as an important source of objective information in the evaluation process.
- #39 Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults – CHADDhttps://chadd.org/for-adults/diagnosis-of-adhd-in-adults/
If the individual being evaluated has not had a recent physical exam (within 6-12 months), a medical examination is recommended to rule out medical causes for symptoms. Some medical conditions, such as thyroid problems and seizure disorders, can cause symptoms that resemble ADHD symptoms. A medical examination does not confirm ADHD but is extremely important in helping to rule out other conditions or problems.
- #40 Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350883
Signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults can be hard to spot. However, core symptoms start early in life before age 12 and continue into adulthood, creating major problems. […] Standard treatments for ADHD in adults typically involve medication, education, skills training and psychological counseling. A combination of these is often the most effective treatment. These treatments can help manage many symptoms of ADHD, but they don’t cure it. It may take some time to determine what works best for you. […] If you’re like many adults with ADHD, you may be unpredictable and forget appointments, miss deadlines, and make impulsive or irrational decisions. These behaviors can strain the patience of the most forgiving co-worker, friend or partner. […] While treatment can make a big difference with ADHD, taking other steps can help you understand ADHD and learn to manage it.
- #41 Diagnosis and Management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2012/0501/p890.html
The mainstay of ADHD treatment is pharmacotherapy. Most studies focus on medications in children, yet these medications have been shown to be safe and effective in adults as well. […] Stimulants and antidepressants (e.g., bupropion [Wellbutrin], desipramine [Norpramin]) have similar effectiveness, although no direct comparison trials have been conducted. […] Medications should be started at a low dose and titrated slowly until maximal benefit is achieved or adverse effects become intolerable. […] Up to 30 percent of patients discontinue stimulants because of uncontrolled symptoms or intolerance of adverse effects. […] The combination of an antidepressant and stimulants has been shown to be safe and effective.
- #42 Diagnosis and Management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2012/0501/p890.html
Clinical guidelines recommend stimulants and the nonstimulant atomoxetine as first-line treatments, followed by antidepressants. […] Cognitive behavior therapy has also been shown to be helpful as adjunctive treatment with medication. […] For adults with coexisting depression, the combination of an antidepressant and stimulants has been shown to be safe and effective. […] Diagnosis is based primarily on a detailed patient history and an assessment of current behavior and level of functioning. […] The clinical diagnosis of ADHD in adults should take a stepwise approach, including evaluating current (in the past six months) ADHD symptoms using rating scales with adult norms. […] Small studies have found that cognitive behavior therapy is helpful as an adjunct to medication in the treatment of ADHD in adults.
- #43 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): What Happens After an ADHD Diagnosis? | Ability Centralhttps://abilitycentral.org/article/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-adults-first-steps
Adult ADHD treatment follows the same basic methodology as ADHD treatment for kids. […] In addition, providers may help adults with ADHD create, deepen, and keep relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. […] Medications for adult ADHD often include traditional stimulants. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from non-stimulant medication like antidepressants and medications used to treat mood swings. […] Simple life changes can help manage ADHD symptoms.
- #44 Can you help me understand the symptoms of adult ADHD?https://www.icliniq.com/qa/adhd/what-are-the-symptoms-and-treatment-options-for-adult-adhd
Symptoms of adult ADHD can be categorized into two groups: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Inattention symptoms include difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, disorganization, and being easily distracted. Hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms involve restlessness, fidgeting, talking excessively, and acting impulsively without thinking. […] A diagnosis of adult ADHD requires a consistent pattern of symptoms that have persisted for at least six months or more, causing significant impairment in various areas of life. […] Treatment options for adult ADHD include medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. Medications such as stimulants and non-stimulants can help improve focus and impulse control. Psychotherapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals learn coping strategies and better manage their symptoms. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep habits, can also contribute to improved ADHD management. Mental health plays an important role in managing adult ADHD. Developing a strong support system, practicing self-care, and maintaining a positive outlook can help individuals with ADHD better cope with their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
- #45 Tips for Managing Adult ADHD – HelpGuide.orghttps://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/adhd/managing-adult-adhd
Money management requires budgeting, planning, and organization, so for many adults with ADHD, it can pose a true challenge. Many common systems of money management dont tend to work for adults with ADHD because they require too much time, paper, and attention to detail. […] Due to the impulsivity and disorganization that often accompany ADHD, you may struggle with erratic sleep, an unhealthy diet, or the effects of too little exerciseall issues that can lead to extra stress, bad moods, and feeling out of control. […] Working out is perhaps the most positive and efficient way to reduce hyperactivity and inattention from ADHD. Exercise can relieve stress, boost your mood, and calm your mind, helping work off the excess energy and aggression that can get in the way of relationships and feeling stable.
- #46 Tips for Managing Adult ADHD – HelpGuide.orghttps://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/adhd/managing-adult-adhd
Sleep and ADHD are connected: Sleep deprivation can increase symptoms of adult ADHD, reducing your ability to cope with stress and maintain focus during the day. […] While unhealthy eating habits dont cause ADHD, a poor diet can exacerbate symptoms. By making simple changes in what and how you eat, you may experience big reductions in distractibility, hyperactivity, and stress levels. […] Regular mindfulness meditation can help you to better resist distractions, lower impulsivity, improve your focus, and provide more control over your emotions.
- #47 ADHD in Adults: Symptoms, Challenges, Diagnosis, and Treatment – ADDA – Attention Deficit Disorder Associationhttps://add.org/adhd-in-adults/
A specialist may also prescribe medications to treat your ADHD. These medications help to regulate the levels of chemical messengers in your brain and increase brain activity. […] ADHD does not have to hold you back from living your life to the fullest and achieving your goals. Adults who receive timely support and treatment can often manage their symptoms well and develop a unique structure that empowers them to be their best, productive selves.