While attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) symptoms often start in childhood, many individuals are diagnosed as adults, particularly women. Here, we explore common symptoms of ADHD in adulthood, the process for getting tested, and how to navigate a diagnosis, with insights from experts in the field.
Common Symptoms of ADHD
Approximately two-thirds of children with ADHD will continue to have symptoms throughout their adult lives, leading to adult ADHD. Data from the National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System found in 2023 that of the more than 15 million Americans with an ADHD diagnosis, more than half were diagnosed at age 18 or older.
There are three main subtypes of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive, or combined-type ADHD. Depending on the type of ADHD, individuals will have some or all of the following symptoms:
- Inattention – difficulty paying attention, completing tasks, and staying organized
- Hyperactivity – excessive activity or restlessness, even in inappropriate times
- Impulsivity – a lack of self-control, or acting without thinking
Without proper treatment and management, these symptoms can have a negative impact on an individual’s home, school, or work life.
Getting Diagnosed
If you are experiencing disruptive symptoms of ADHD, it may be beneficial to undergo testing. The World Health Organization offers a free, quick self-screening tool developed by a team of psychiatrists and researchers that asks a few questions about your typical behaviors and habits. The results produce a score which indicates if you may be a candidate for further ADHD testing.
While there is currently no single medical test that can diagnose ADHD, licensed medical professionals typically use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), to assess an individual’s likelihood of having ADHD. The manual defines adult ADHD as an individual age 17 or older showing at least five persistent symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity, present since before age of 12, across two or more settings, and not better explained by another condition. The assessment will determine the type of ADHD an individual has, along with a severity of either mild, moderate, or severe. Once a diagnosis occurs, the provider will follow up with recommended resources and treatment options for managing ADHD symptoms.
Managing Symptoms
Current research suggests that a combination of medication and therapy is the best treatment option for ADHD. Support groups, coaching, and lifestyle changes can provide additional assistance in processing an ADHD diagnosis and managing symptoms. For example, individuals with ADHD may often feel easily distracted and have trouble focusing. Creating structure and routines within your schedule can be a helpful way to stay on task, remain organized, and succeed with time management.
Prioritizing a healthy lifestyle can also play a factor in managing symptoms:
- Diet: Ongoing research suggests that eating a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables may lessen ADHD symptoms, and the Attention Deficit Disorder Association recommends avoiding caffeine, foods high in additives, refined carbs (like baked goods high in sugar), and unhealthy fats.
- Exercise: Exercise, which triggers endorphin release and can boost energy, can be a helpful tool in managing symptoms.
- Sleep: Prioritizing sleep health can help prevent exacerbated symptoms resulting from sleep disruption commonly experienced by adults with ADHD.
While these strategies don’t offer a cure for ADHD, working with a primary care provider or mental health provider to develop a personalized treatment plan can help manage symptoms long term.
Q&A With Expert Providers
Q: How can ADHD present differently in men and women?
Q: What should adults keep in mind when testing for ADHD?
Q: What are some effective tools and strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD?
Meet the Author
Kristen Dee, BS, MA, Summa Cum Laude
Kristen Dee is a graduate of Winthrop University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications. Following Winthrop, she earned a Master of Arts in Communication from Wake Forest University. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group, Kristen successfully fulfilled roles involving internal corporate communications. Today, she supports ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health & wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville® – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. She also contributes to the development of blogs and other content shared on the publications’ digital platforms. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, baking, reading, and spending time with her husband and two dogs, Cooper and Rocky.
