Adult and Young Adult ADHD

Adult and young adult ADHD can pose challenges at work, in relationships and at school. Restlessness, inattention and more can harm our best of functions.

Is it high energy or a concern? Is it easily distracted or hurting their functioning? ADHD via the executive functions in the brain can present itself very differently. Learn more below:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is defined as a pattern of behaviors of inappropriate levels of inattention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity. It is the most commonly diagnosed as a child but more and more young adults and adults are reporting the symptoms. The behavior of people with ADHD often results in serious disturbances in their relationships with parents, teachers, peers, and siblings, as well as academic or job performance problems.

Symptoms of Adult ADHD Inattention:

• Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes
• Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks, especially ones not interested in
• Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish tasks
• Has difficulties organizing tasks and activities
• Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort
• Loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g. keys, wallet, backpack)
• Is easily distracted
• Is forgetful in daily activities

Although it can emerge in adulthood, most often the symptoms of ADHD (see above) start in childhood. Environmental and internal factors that could delay its ability to impact functioning are: structured schedules, parental interventions, high level of intelligence, sports and more.

Adult symptoms are not as easily defined as they are in children. An adult’s hyperactivity may decrease and display itself as restlessness. ‘Easily Distracted’ might turn into trouble focusing on work tasks for an extended period of time. Impulsiveness with speech might turn into over spending or problems with delayed gratification.

Symptoms of Hyperactivity or Restlessness:

• Restless legs, feet, hands
• Leaves seat often even when expected to stay seated
• Restless sensations, high energy during games or events
• Has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
• Is always “on the go” or acts as if “driven by a motor”
• Often talks excessively
• Interrupts conversation

Symptoms of Impulsivity:

• Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
• Has difficulty awaiting turn
• Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)

Picture feeling better, longer. Research shows an increasing trend in positive wellness when combining counseling with medicine. Check out our psych med providers today! All Psychiatric services for ADHD medication will need to be seen in-person.

Diagnosis is a complex process that cannot be based on a single visit to the doctor. Instead, information must be gathered from partners, spouses, family and friend as well as any observations in natural settings. ADHD can often exhibit in other ways including defiant and noncompliant behavior, car accidents, verbal and physical aggression,, low self esteem (particularly in young adults), and learning disabilities.

• The cause of ADHD is unknown. Most professionals believe that the cause is based in the brain, but the exact nature of the cause is unclear. It is known that diet is not a cause of ADHD. Neither artificial substances in foods nor sugar cause ADHD.
• Most people do not outgrow ADHD. More than two-thirds of children with ADHD continue to display serious problems in adolescence and adulthood, and often their problems worsen. ADHD young adults are at increased risk for school failure and dropout, possible substance or alcohol abuse, and delinquency.
• ADHD adults often have difficulties in job performance, coping with stress, relationships with other people, substance and alcohol abuse, and criminal behavior.

Read below regarding medication and IDEA act.

• Medication with a psychostimulant drug, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate-CD), amphetamine (Adderall, Adderall-XR, Dexedrine), or pemoline (Cylert) can be an effective short-term treatment for ADHD, especially when combined with behavior therapy.
• Following a 1991 ruling of the U.S. Department of Education, young adults with ADHD are now eligible to receive special educational services in school settings under the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), and Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act.