Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disease characterized by several chronic problems like trouble paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Adult ADHD can cause interpersonal problems, poor work or school performance, low self-esteem, and other issues.

While called adult ADHD, symptoms begin in infancy and continue throughout life. Sometimes, ADHD isn't identified or diagnosed until adulthood. Adult ADHD symptoms may be less obvious than in youngsters.

Learn more about ADHD symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment. 

What are the symptoms of adult ADHD?
Some people with ADHD have less symptoms when they become older. However, several individuals continue to experience significant symptoms that interfere with their everyday life. Adults with ADHD may experience trouble focusing, impulsiveness, and restlessness. The severity of the symptoms might range from minor to severe.

At the same time, many people with ADHD aren't aware of their condition. Adults with ADHD may struggle to focus and prioritize, resulting in missed deadlines and missed meetings, or poor social interactions. The inability to manage emotions can range from frustration when driving in traffic to mood swings and angry outbursts.

Some of the most common symptoms of adult ADHD include:
- Difficulty prioritizing
- Poor time management
- Poor planning
- Hot temper
- Excessive activity
- Frequent mood swings
- Difficulty dealing with stress

What's ADHD and it’s typical behavior?
Almost everyone may experience ADHD-like symptoms at some point in their lives. If your difficulties just appeared or you experienced them only several times throughout your life, you most likely don't have ADHD. ADHD is only diagnosed when the symptoms are strong enough to lead to persistent problems that affect more than one area of your life. 

It can be extremely difficult to diagnose adult ADHD because symptoms of this condition are extremely similar to those caused by other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Besides, many people with ADHD have at least one accompanying mental health condition. The conditions that often coexist with ADHD include:
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Anxiety disorders
- Personality disorders
- Substance use
- Learning disabilities

What are the causes of ADHD  and risk factors?
Genetics is a major risk factor for ADHD disorder. Because ADHD often runs in families, genes may play a crucial role in your risk of developing ADHD. Environmental factors also play a role. Certain factors like lead exposure in childhood can make you more likely to have ADHD. Central nervous system problems that appear at key moments of development can increase your risk of ADHD. 

Untreated or poorly managed ADHD can lead to several complications. They include poor school or work performance, unemployment, financial troubles, substance misuse, and poor relationships with others. All these complications may aggravate  ADHD symptoms and worsen your condition significantly. 

How is ADHD diagnosed?
ADHD diagnosis may include several stages because no single test may diagnose this condition. Besides, difficulty spotting  ADHD symptoms in adults may interfere with the right diagnosis. If your doctor suspects you have ADHD, making the diagnosis will most likely include a physical exam, informational gathering, and psychological tests. 

What are ADHD treatment options?

The standard treatment for ADHD usually includes medications, psychological counseling, and lifestyle changes. The doctor may prescribe you stimulants to boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters in your brain. Other medications may include atomoxetine and antidepressants. 

Common types of psychotherapy for treating ADHD include cognitive behavioral therapy, marital counseling, and family therapy. Psychotherapy can help you better perform your daily tasks and establish healthy relationships with other people. You may also consider support groups to meet other people with ADHD.

Lifestyle changes are also a crucial part of ADHD treatmen. Your doctor may recommend you make a list of tasks, break down large tasks into smaller pieces, and use sticky pads to write notes to yourself.