Not Just For Kids: Understanding an Adult ADHD Diagnosis

For many adults, an ADHD diagnosis isn’t just unexpected—it’s something they simply never thought possible. That can lead many adults with ADHD to bristle at the suggestion that the disorder may be causing many of their difficulties and struggles in life. However, that attitude in and of itself can be a barrier to effective treatment.

That’s partly because there’s still a stigma attached to this common, normal disorder—and because there are many misconceptions that come with an ADHD diagnosis. One of the most prevalent is that ADHD is a child’s disease, and that it always disappears as you age.

Fortunately, by arming yourself with more accurate information, it’s much easier to make smart decisions about your adult ADHD diagnosis—including finding ways to manage your behavior and allow you to lead a happier and more fulfilling life.

Isn’t ADHD for Kids?

Unfortunately, this is still a common question that often follows an adult ADHD diagnosis. The answer is no—ADHD affects both children and adults. In fact, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 5% of children according to research—and about half of those children will have symptoms that carry over into
their adult years.

While ADHD symptoms will often diminish with age, they’re equally likely to stick around in some form. In addition, if it’s hard to believe that you’ve developed ADHD suddenly as an adult, the answer may be that you’ve had it since childhood, but were never properly diagnosed.

Differences Between Adult ADHD and ADHD in Children

In any case, it’s essential to understand that there are certain key differences in the way ADHD presents itself in children versus adults. For example, the hyperactivity commonly seem in children may not be as conspicuously present in adults with ADHD—hyperactivity in adults often manifests as an inner restlessness, rather than outward activity.

You’ll probably have fewer obvious symptoms as you age, though in some cases they may simply reveal themselves in different ways. In addition, adult ADHD can sometimes be confused with—or complicated by—the existence of other mood disorders, such as clinical depression or anxiety. A proper treatment by a trained
professional can you help to distinguish between these different disorders and treat them accordingly.

Healthy management and therapy, like the kind provided by Cloud Counseling, can make a huge difference. An open, accepting attitude, along with a willingness to commit to getting better, are important first steps.

Contact Cloud Counseling to learn more and get started.