Understanding ADHD
ADHD affects focus, impulse control, and activity levels. It's a neurodevelopmental condition that continues into adulthood for many people.
ADHD is real and treatable. It affects 4.4% of adults and can significantly impact daily life. With proper diagnosis and treatment, people with ADHD can thrive in work, relationships, and personal goals.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is educational only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. These descriptions are not diagnostic tools. ADHD diagnosis requires comprehensive evaluation by qualified healthcare providers using standardized criteria.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. ADHD often begins in childhood but can continue into adulthood.
Three Types of ADHD:
- Predominantly Inattentive: Difficulty sustaining attention, organizing tasks, following instructions
- Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive: Fidgeting, restlessness, interrupting others
- Combined Presentation: Both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms
Recognizing ADHD Symptoms
ADHD symptoms often change with age and can look different in teens versus adults. Some people develop coping strategies that mask symptoms.
Inattentive Symptoms
- • Difficulty paying attention to details
- • Trouble sustaining attention in tasks
- • Seems not to listen when spoken to
- • Doesn't follow through on instructions
- • Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
- • Avoids tasks requiring sustained mental effort
- • Loses things necessary for tasks
- • Easily distracted by outside stimuli
- • Forgetful in daily activities
Hyperactive-Impulsive Symptoms
- • Fidgets or taps hands/feet
- • Leaves seat when expected to remain seated
- • Restless feelings in inappropriate situations
- • Difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly
- • "On the go" or "driven by a motor"
- • Talks excessively
- • Blurts out answers before questions completed
- • Difficulty waiting their turn
- • Interrupts or intrudes on others
ADHD in Adults May Look Like:
- • Chronic lateness or time management issues
- • Difficulty completing projects
- • Frequent job changes
- • Relationship difficulties
- • Procrastination and missed deadlines
- • Emotional reactivity
- • Low frustration tolerance
- • Feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks
ADHD Diagnosis Process
ADHD diagnosis requires comprehensive evaluation by qualified healthcare providers. There's no single test for ADHD—diagnosis is based on clinical criteria and comprehensive history.
Evaluation May Include:
- Detailed history: Childhood development, school performance, family history
- Symptom rating scales: Standardized questionnaires for you and family/partners
- Medical evaluation: Rule out other conditions that mimic ADHD
- Functional assessment: How symptoms impact work, relationships, daily life
Why Professional Diagnosis Matters
Many conditions can cause attention problems, including anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and learning disabilities. A thorough evaluation helps ensure you receive the right diagnosis and most effective treatment.
When to Seek Professional Evaluation
Consider ADHD Evaluation If:
- Persistent attention problems affect work/school performance
- Difficulty managing time, tasks, or organization
- Relationship problems due to forgetfulness or impulsivity
- Chronic feelings of underachievement despite effort
- Family history of ADHD or learning differences
🚨 Seek Emergency Help If You Experience:
- • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- • Severe depression or anxiety
- • Substance abuse concerns
- • Complete inability to function
Crisis Resources Available 24/7:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
Crisis Text Line: Text "HELLO" to 741741
Emergency Services: Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room
Evidence-Based Treatment Options
ADHD treatment typically combines multiple approaches. Most people see the best results with a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle strategies.
Medication Management
- Stimulant Medications: Most effective first-line treatment for many people
- Non-Stimulant Options: Alternative for those who can't take stimulants
- Extended-Release Formulations: All-day symptom management
- Individualized Dosing: Carefully adjusted based on response and side effects
Medication requires ongoing monitoring and adjustment by qualified providers.
Therapy & Skills Training
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Helps develop coping strategies and skills
- ADHD Coaching: Practical skills for organization and time management
- Social Skills Training: Improve relationships and communication
- Family Therapy: Help family members understand and support treatment
Strategies for Managing ADHD
These practical strategies can help manage ADHD symptoms and improve daily functioning alongside professional treatment.
Organization & Planning
- • Use calendars and reminder apps
- • Break large tasks into smaller steps
- • Create consistent daily routines
- • Use timers and alarms
- • Designate specific places for items
Focus & Attention
- • Minimize distractions in work area
- • Use noise-canceling headphones
- • Take regular movement breaks
- • Practice mindfulness techniques
- • Work during your most alert times
Self-Care & Wellness
- • Regular exercise (especially aerobic)
- • Consistent sleep schedule
- • Balanced, regular meals
- • Limit caffeine and sugar
- • Practice stress management
Expert Medical Review
Reviewed by: Keeley Haas, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Last reviewed: August 10, 2025
Dr. Haas has extensive experience diagnosing and treating ADHD in adolescents and adults using evidence-based approaches including comprehensive evaluations, medication management, and therapeutic interventions. Content is reviewed regularly and updated based on current clinical practice guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and ADHD treatment standards.
Get the ADHD Support You Deserve
Proper diagnosis and treatment can help you harness your strengths and manage challenges more effectively.