Can ADHD Extend Into Adulthood?

When most think about ADHD or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder they think of children. While ADHD is a neurobehavioral condition that typically develops during childhood, many adults also experience it. This condition is usually diagnosed between ages 4-7 but it can also develop in younger and older children. It may even go undiagnosed for some.

Adult ADHD: Is it Real?

Like children, ADHD in adults also needs to be promptly diagnosed and treated. Research shows that approximately a third of those who had ADHD as a child will also have symptoms into adulthood. This commonly happens because recognizing the symptoms in young children may not be easy. The symptoms are only nonspecific, the intensity of symptoms may vary from almost unnoticeable to severe or excessive. This variation can lead to misdiagnoses or even no diagnosis at all. 

Since children do not have much self-discipline over the way they act, ADHD symptoms during this age may be more apparent. As time goes by, these symptoms can become more reckless and different or they may eventually decrease. Through learning to curb impulsive and hyperactive behaviors, adults may learn to ease their symptoms.

In the past, the knowledge about ADHD was limited. Most people tended to think that children were just being children. Symptoms may have been dismissed or minimized causing them to persist into adulthood due to lack of intervention. 

Do You Have the Symptoms?

Recognizing the symptoms of ADHD can be challenging because they differ from person to person. The symptoms may also be different in adults, changing as they age. 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.” If the signs and symptoms are not promptly recognized, the chance of proper diagnosis and treatment become less likely. Adults must be aware of the symptoms, so that they can seek professional help if needed. 

Adults with ADHD tend to have a shorter attention span, most especially if the topic or task is not something that interests them. Some other symptoms can include inattention, poor listening skills, being easily distracted, and losing interest in the middle of a conversation. The exact opposite of these symptoms may also be observed. There are those who are too focused on the things that interest them. Some may also be more forgetful and disorganized. There are those who are impulsive and may say or do something before they thoughtfully processed the idea.

ADHD in adults can contribute to having low self-esteem, feelings of failure and lack of drive. Most symptoms can bring emotional struggles as well. You may feel frustrated and irritated when things do not go your way and when you are having difficulty adjusting your responses. You can become overly sensitive towards comments and criticisms. This condition can also cause hyperactivity, not in the same way as a child, but in ways like having racing thoughts, multitasking, persistent fidgeting, non-stop talking, as well as taking unnecessary risks.

Resolving Adult ADHD with Counseling

The possibility of ADHD extending beyond childhood is ever present. Your daily life can be affected as your functions, judgement, creativity, memory, decision-making and ability to complete tasks are impaired. This condition can affect your health, relationships and career in a lot of adverse ways. If you recognize these symptoms in yourself, it can be critical to seek professional help from an experienced, licensed therapist. 

Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina, NC contracts with knowledgeable, experienced counselors who can help. When ADHD is properly diagnosed, counseling can generate hope and relief for you and your loved ones. Therapy can give you understanding as to why you react in certain ways and find ways that work better for you. Call today to get started!

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