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ADHD in Men: Signs, Symptoms, & Treatments

Published: July 8, 2022 Updated: July 20, 2022
Published: 07/08/2022 Updated: 07/20/2022
  • Symptoms of ADHD in MenSymptoms
  • ADHD in Women vs. MenWomen vs. Men
  • Treatment for ADHD in Adult MenTreatment
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
  • ADHD in Men InfographicsInfographics

ADHD tends to appear differently in adult men than in other populations. Men don’t typically exhibit intense symptoms of hyperactivity/inattentiveness. However, they experience difficulty with mood regulation, developing healthy sleep routines, heightened procrastination, and a decreased tolerance for frustrations.1 An adult male with ADHD may have trouble sleeping, concentrating, managing their time or work, and become irritable easily.

Whether you or someone you love have gone undiagnosed or you’ve had a diagnosis for most of your life, it can be important to monitor symptoms, as manifestations of ADHD can change as someone ages.

BetterHelp has over 20,000 licensed therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. BetterHelp starts at $60 per week. Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you.

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What Is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder featuring a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity that interferes with a person’s overall functioning. Symptoms can be exhibited in a variety of ways depending on different factors, including one’s age and/or gender. ADHD is known to stem from genetic components, but there is no single gene that has been identified as its cause.2

Symptoms of ADHD in Men

Symptoms of ADHD in adult men often include frequent emotional dysregulation, touchiness with criticism or conflict, and/or avoidance behaviors around conflict or emotions. Men with ADHD tend to respond quickly and intensely to things. These reactions can sometimes produce an impression of anger management problems. However, depending on the subtype (inattentive, hyperactive, or combined), signs of ADHD may differ.2

Common ADHD symptoms in men can include the following:

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Starting many hobbies or ventures, but not following through fully
  • Difficulty managing time and responsibilities
  • Shifts in mood or poor emotional regulation
  • Chronic procrastination, leading to difficulty at work or school
  • Difficulty facing rejection or criticism
  • Acting without assessing the negative consequences
  • Having to put forth more effort than peers in academic/professional environments
  • Often making simple mistakes at work or school
  • Blurting out answers or interrupting conversations, leading to difficulty socializing >
  • Taking frequent unnecessary breaks
  • Restlessness or feeling fidgety constantly
  • Often failing to follow along in conversations

ADHD in Women vs. Men

ADHD symptom intensity varies between men and women. Recent studies suggest a diminishing difference in the overall prevalence of subtypes (hyperactive, inattentive, and combined) in the two sexes.3,4 However, the American Psychiatric Association notes that females with ADHD are slightly more likely to present with inattentive symptoms than males.2 Like with many other disorders, manifested differences rely heavily on someone’s roles and expectations within social environments.

Easier & Earlier Diagnosis

Men tend to receive an ADHD diagnosis more frequently and earlier than their female counterparts. This is due to the more overt nature of their symptoms. Masculine behaviors are typically more noticeable and exacerbate stereotypical male characteristics. In academic and professional settings, these actions can be disruptive, thus receiving more attention than inattentive behaviors exhibited by women.

Difficulty Focusing

Men with ADHD commonly experience heightened levels of distraction and hyperactivity. They are quick to jump from task to task, often without completing previous ones. Because of this, their performance may be impacted at work or school. In contrast, women tend to be more forgetful and/or inattentive. While symptoms may not always be exhibited physically, internalized racing thoughts and inability to focus can make it difficult for women to maintain attention. Still, this mental overstimulation can manifest within poor performance reviews and frequent mistakes.

Issues with Relationships

Men with ADHD can be extremely conflict avoidant; they may be easily annoyed and/or hard to calm down. Because of this, relationships with significant others, family members, and friends can be negatively impacted. Additionally, conflicts may arise regarding a male’s messiness or a seeming lack of attention to details. As a consequence, loved ones may feel that they are constantly cleaning up or looking after their ADHD partner.

Treatment for ADHD in Adult Men

Pharmaceutical treatment for ADHD commonly includes one of two approaches: stimulants, such as methylphenidate or amphetamine; or non-stimulants, such as atomoxetine or bupropion.5 All medications come with their own benefits and potential side effects, so it is important to work with your doctor to figure out which prescription, dose, and regimen will suit your lifestyle best.

Combined with medication, psychotherapy can be beneficial in the treatment of ADHD, as well.6 The most commonly recognized method is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with a focus on pro-social skills.7 It is never too late to get treatment, and treatment can be effective at any age.

Finding a qualified therapist can be intimidating. If you have insurance, start your search by obtaining a list of providers that are in-network. From there, you can locate one who specializes in treating ADHD. Online therapist directories are also a great source for information.

Final Thoughts

ADHD can be difficult to manage, but there are effective treatments available. Many find that a healthy treatment plan leaves a positive impact on their lives. Additionally, there are ample printed resources to help you along your journey.

Additional Resources

Education is just the first step on our path to improved mental health and emotional wellness. To help our readers take the next step in their journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy may be compensated for referrals by the companies mentioned below.

BetterHelp Online Therapy – BetterHelp has over 20,000 licensed therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. BetterHelp starts at $60 per week. Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you. Get Started

Talkspace Online Therapy – Online therapy is convenient with Talkspace. Get therapy for as little as $69 per week, or potentially much less if you have insurance from Cigna, Optum, or UHR. Try Talkspace

Choosing Therapy’s Directory – Find an experienced therapist who is committed to your wellbeing. You can search for a therapist by specialty, availability, insurance, and affordability. Therapist profiles and introductory videos provide insight into the therapist’s personality so you find the right fit. Find a therapist today.

Online Psychiatry & Medication – Answer a few questions and Talkspace will match you with an online prescriber and get schedule a video psychiatry session. Your online psychiatry prescriber will personalize your treatment, which may include psychiatric medication and follow-ups. Get started for $249 or see if your insurance is one of many Talkspace accepts. Learn More

Mindfulness & Meditation App – Headspace is an easy way to incorporate mindfulness and meditation into your routine. See for yourself how a few minutes each day can impact your stress levels, mood, and sleep. A monthly subscription for Headspace is only $12.99 per month and comes with a 7-day free trial. Try Headspace

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for referrals by BetterHelp, Talkspace, and Headspace

For Further Reading

  • CHADD – Has a National Resource Center on ADHD
  • Attention Deficit Disorder Association Support groups, workshops, and ambassador program
  • Mental Health America
  • National Alliance on Mental Health
  • MentalHealth.gov

ADHD in Men Infographics

 Symptoms of ADHD in Men  ADHD in Women vs. Men  Treatment for ADHD in Adult Men

7 sources

Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • Adamis, D., Flynn, C., Wrigley, M., Gavin, B., & McNicholas, F. (2022). ADHD in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prevalence Studies in Outpatient Psychiatric Clinics. Journal of Attention Disorders. https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547221085503

  • American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders</i (5th ed. Text Revision). Washington, DC: Author.

  • Wilens, T. E., Biederman, J., Faraone, S. V., Martelon, M., Westerberg, D., & Spencer, T. J. (2009). Presenting ADHD symptoms, subtypes, and comorbid disorders in clinically referred adults with ADHD. The Journal of clinical psychiatry, 70(11), 15333.

  • Rasmussen, K., & Levander, S. (2009). Untreated ADHD in adults: are there sex differences in symptoms, comorbidity, and impairment?. Journal of Attention Disorders, 12(4), 353-360.

  • Mayo Clinic. (June 22, 2019). Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350883

  • Arnold, L. E., Hodgkins, P., Caci, H., Kahle, J., & Young, S. (2015). Effect of treatment modality on long-term outcomes in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review. PloS one, 10(2), e0116407.

  • Weiss, M., Murray, C., Wasdell, M., Greenfield, B., Giles, L., & Hechtman, L. (2012). A randomized controlled trial of CBT therapy for adults with ADHD with and without medication. BMC psychiatry, 12(1), 1-8.

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