AD/HD in Adults

AD/HD is a neurobiological condition believed to be hereditary, whose symptoms always start in childhood. “There is no such thing as adult onset AD/HD”, according to Dr. Edward Hallowell, co-author of Driven to Distraction and Answers to Distraction. The adult with AD/HD was a child with AD/HD.

The same primary symptoms for children: hyperactivity, impulsivity and distractibility also apply to adults. One or more of the symptoms must go back for as long as can be remembered and must affect every aspect of a person’s life.

It is never a good idea to “self diagnose.” This is especially true with AD/HD because its symptoms can mimic those of other serious disorders. Some experts in the field believe that a complete and detailed history consisting of medical, family, social, educational and employment factors is essential in determining an accurate diagnosis; others think that a battery of specific tests is also required.

Characteristics of AD/HD in Adults

Feelings of restlessness, fidgeting, squirming
Inability to remain still or engage in focused activity such as reading
Extreme distractibility, forgetfulness, absent-mindedness
Difficulty waiting, extreme irritation when stuck in traffic
Frequent mood swings
Disorganization, inability to finish tasks, switching from task to task haphazardly
Difficulty in solving problems or managing time
Hot temper, explosive outbursts, constant irritation
Impulsiveness, making decisions with little reflection or information, abruptly ending relationships, recklessness
Low tolerance of stress, easily overwhelmed by ordinary hassles
Clumsiness, poor body image, poor sense of direction
Often creative, intuitive, highly intelligent
Trouble in going through established channels
A tendency to worry needlessly; a tendency to look for something to worry about, alternating with inattention to or disregard for actual dangers
A sense of insecurity

Everyone at one time or another may have some of these characteristics, but the adult who consistently exhibits several of these behaviors may have AD/HD requiring professional identification and help.

There is no one single, definitive test for AD/HD. A good evaluation looks at the whole individual and offers a blueprint for treatment.

While symptoms can range from mild to severe, most adults with AD/HD benefit from some type of therapy. Options can include: medication, psychotherapy, support groups, and/or education and coaching.

ADD/ADHD in Children

ADD/ADHD in Adults

ADHD Information

AD/HD in Adults

Characteristics of AD/HD in Adults