What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
in Adults?

For many years it was believed that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) disappeared by the time a child reached adolescence with no long-lasting effects. Now it is understood that as many as two out of three children will continue to struggle with the disorder into adulthood. Adults with ADHD may have difficulty sustaining attention and concentration and often exhibit extreme levels of activity, distractibility, and impulsivity. ADHD can wreak havoc with personal relationships, present ongoing problems at work, and can even make the individual prone to depression and substance abuse. However, with proper treatment, adults can learn to control and even capitalize on the extra energy and ingenuity that is attributed to ADHD.


Symptoms

Many adults with ADHD have a very difficult time getting organized, planning ahead and maintaining order--they are often very messy. Others have learned obsessive coping mechanisms and are very organized, live on a very strict schedule, and keep lots of lists.

The three core symptoms of ADHD are:

Impulsivity

Overly impulsive; seem unable to curb immediate reactions or think before saying things to friends or co-workers; may have problems with gambling or shopping.

Hyperactivity

Always seem to be in motion; may have trouble sitting still for long periods of time; may talk incessantly or fidget constantly. (In adults, the hyperactivity component is not always present, and a diagnosis of ADD may be more appropriate.)

Distractibility

May have trouble following conversations or keeping mind focused on one thing for any real length of time; is easily bored with a task after only a few minutes.

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