• Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • What Are Bipolar Disorder Cycles?
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
  • Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • What Are Bipolar Disorder Cycles?
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
Skip to content

Adult ADHD: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments

Published: January 6, 2023 Updated: January 9, 2023
Published: 01/06/2023 Updated: 01/09/2023
Headshot of Sidney Deupree, MA, LPC, NCC
Written by:

Sidney Deupree

MA, LPC, NCC
Headshot of Lynn Byars, MD, MPH, FACP
Reviewed by:

Lynn Byars

MD, MPH, FACP
  • What Is ADHD?Definition
  • Signs & Symptoms of Adult ADHDSigns
  • Presentations of ADHDPresentations
  • Do Women Experience Adult ADHD Differently Than Men?Genders
  • Challenges of Adult ADHDChallenges
  • Adult ADHD & Potential Substance UseSubstance Use
  • Treatment of Adult ADHDTreatment
  • How to Get Help For Adult ADHDGet Help
  • Self-Help Strategies For Managing Adult ADHDSelf-Help
  • Adult ADHD & Co-Occurring Mental Health ConcernsComorbidities
  • Final Thoughts on ADHD in AdultsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
  • Adult ADHD InfographicsInfographics
Headshot of Sidney Deupree, MA, LPC, NCC
Written by:

Sidney Deupree

MA, LPC, NCC
Headshot of Lynn Byars, MD, MPH, FACP
Reviewed by:

Lynn Byars

MD, MPH, FACP

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder diagnosed in childhood or adulthood; however, many people with ADHD aren’t diagnosed until later in life, if ever. Key components of the disorder are trouble concentrating, fidgeting, procrastination, and impulsive behavior. While many children and adults experience some variation of these symptoms, those with ADHD usually don’t outgrow them.1

Evidence has shown that online therapy can be effective in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, experienced therapist to help you manage your ADHD symptoms and reduce any negative impact on your life and relationships. Online therapy with BetterHelp starts at $60 per week. Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you.

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by BetterHelp

Visit BetterHelp

What Is ADHD?

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that is characterized by issues with attention and impulsivity. These issues must be present for at least six months, as many of these symptoms can be situational if someone is experiencing stress or a big life change. In children, it can impact their social life, concentration and ability to adapt to changes.

Signs & Symptoms of Adult ADHD

For an adult to be diagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), there must have been significant symptomatology that began in childhood before the age of twelve. Because of this, it can be difficult to get an ADHD diagnosis as an adult if you’re not able to accurately recall childhood symptomatology.

Signs and symptoms of ADHD include:

  • Lack of focus
  • Disorganization
  • Forgetfulness
  • Distraction
  • Restlessness
  • Irritability
  • Impulsivity
  • Excitability
  • Low frustration tolerance
  • Boredom
  • Making careless mistakes
  • Poor time management

3 Presentations of ADHD

There are three key presentations of ADHD. Depending on the symptoms and signs of adult ADHD, someone’s ADHD diagnosis will contain one of the following specifiers: predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation, predominantly inattentive presentation, and combined presentation.

Here are the three presentation of ADHD:

  1. Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation
  2. Predominantly inattentive presentation
  3. Combined presentation

While underlying symptoms of ADHD remain the same from childhood into adulthood, the expression of these symptoms tends to change as the individual ages. In other words, inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity will usually remain present from childhood into adolescence and adulthood. The difference will be in the way that these symptoms manifest, and someone may have learned ways to be “high-functioning” ADHD and practice ADHD masking in adulthood.

1. Hyperactive/Impulsive

For diagnosis of a hyperactive/impulsive presentation in adults, at least five of these symptoms must be present:2

  • Fidgets, taps hands or feet, squirms in the seat
  • Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected
  • Runs about or climbs when not appropriate
  • Unable to engage in leisure activity quietly
  • Is often “on the go,” acting as if “driven by a motor”
  • Talks excessively
  • Blurts out an answer before a question has been completed
  • Difficulty waiting his/her turn
  • Interrupts or intrudes on others

2. Inattentive

For diagnosis of an inattentive presentation, at least five of these symptoms must be present:2

  • Fails to give close attention to details, makes careless mistakes
  • Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks
  • Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
  • Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or work assignments
  • Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
  • Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort
  • Loses things necessary for tasks or activities
  • Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
  • Forgetful of daily activities

How these inattentive symptoms may look in adults:3

  • Procrastinating important work assignments
  • Disorganized or messy work and home environments
  • Financial risk-taking behaviors
  • Poor time management and time blindness
  • Problems focusing on tasks, easily sidetracked
  • Mood swings
  • Irritability or low frustration tolerance
  • Inability to complete tasks, often starting but rarely finishing tasks
  • Unable to multitask
  • Restlessness or fidgeting

3. Combined Presentation

For a diagnosis of combined presentation, the individual must meet criteria for both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD. Note that symptoms may change over time, meaning children may end up fitting for different presentations as they age.

These symptoms provide the basis of an ADHD diagnosis. Other factors, such as length/duration and severity of symptoms are also considered. Many people may have some or many of the symptoms without meeting the complete criteria for a diagnosis.

Do Women Experience Adult ADHD Differently Than Men?

While ADHD in men is more prominent in males than in females, females are more likely to present with inattentive vs. hyperactive features. Because hyperactivity is easier to recognize, there may be an under-reporting of female cases.2 Studies also suggest that ADHD in women is more likely to present as depression and anxiety as well as low self-esteem. Plus, they tend to focus less on fixing existing problems and more on compensating for unfinished or forgotten tasks.4

Challenges of Adult ADHD

Challenges of ADHD can occur within the realm of work/school life, social life, and home life. Note that symptoms can change over time, aren’t always present, and vary from setting to setting. Symptoms may also lessen or be less noticeable when the individual is receiving praise, engaged in activities they find interesting, interacting one-on-one, or having consistent external stimuli (phone, tv, video games, etc.).2

Issues At Work/School

Because of issues related to inattention and focus (i.e., ADHD paralysis), those with ADHD often struggle with organization, prioritization, procrastination, and task completion. This leads to poor occupational performance, attainment, and attendance, as well as higher rates of unemployment. Those who are unfamiliar with the signs and symptoms of ADHD often misinterpret these individuals as lazy, irresponsible, and uncooperative.2

Impact On Relationships

Because ADHD is associated with reduced behavioral inhibition and other inappropriate social behaviors, social relationships are often more difficult for people with ADHD. They can have difficulty maintaining relationships and are more prone to elevated interpersonal conflicts.

Get Help 

Talkiatry – Offers psychiatric appointments with real doctors within a week. They’re in-network with every major insurer and offer medication management. Take a free assessment and meet your new psychiatrist.  Free Assessment


Inflow App – Inflow is the #1 science-based app to help you manage your ADHD. Their support system helps you understand your neurodiverse brain, and build lifelong skills. Free Trial


Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and may be compensated for marketing by Inflow and Talkiatry.

Adult ADHD & Potential Substance Use

Many people with ADHD try to self-medicate, meaning they use drugs (legal or illegal) and/or alcohol in an attempt to alleviate, mask, or numb their symptoms. Young adults with ADHD are more likely to abuse alcohol than those without. Due to decreased inhibition and lack of impulse control, they are also more likely to start abusing alcohol and drugs at an earlier age, although genetics can play a role as well.5

Typically, adults with untreated ADHD are much more susceptible to engaging in substance abuse and other behaviors that would lead to legal issues and incarceration than those who are diagnosed and receive treatment.6

Treatment of Adult ADHD

Treatment for adult ADHD can be divided into two categories: therapy and medication. Problems with attention/focus and impulsivity/hyperactivity can be greatly helped with proper medication usage. However, other aspects like organizational skills and procrastination are generally better managed with psychotherapy and behavior modification training.

Therapy

Common types of therapies used to treat adult ADHD include behavioral therapy and psychotherapy.

Here are two kinds of therapy used to treat adult ADHD:

  • Behavior therapy: teaches organizational skills, time management, social skills, and healthy lifestyle changes
  • Psychotherapy: helps with stress and anxiety reduction, processing thoughts and emotions, and developing coping skills

Medication

Common adult ADHD medications include stimulants and non-stimulants.7 Note that you should always discuss your symptoms and medical history with your prescribing doctor to determine whether stimulants vs. non-stimulants are the best treatment for you.

Your doctor can prescribe ADHD medications, but because stimulant medications are a controlled substance, many general practitioners will refer you to a psychiatrist for diagnosis and medication management. Regular medication management checkups will also be required for prescription refills.

Here are details about ADHD medications:

  • Stimulants: medications that stimulate the central nervous system are the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD. They work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
  • Non-stimulants: some non-stimulant ADHD medications also work by increasing norepinephrine in the brain. There are other non-stimulant medications that can treat ADHD, though the reason they work isn’t fully known; however, research suggests that they aid certain chemicals in the brain associated with memory and attention.

Common side effects of ADHD medication include:

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Loss of appetite, stomach upset, weight loss
  • Nervousness, irritability
  • Headaches
  • Dry mouth

More serious side effects include:

  • Hallucinations
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Seizures or allergic reactions
  • Suicidal ideations

How to Get Help For Adult ADHD

If you think you may have adult ADHD, talk with your doctor about your symptoms. They can either evaluate you themselves or refer you to a specialist. You can also contact a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or licensed counselor. These individuals usually have referrals for psychiatrists if you decide to consider medication along with psychotherapy.

If you suspect you may have some symptoms associated with ADHD but are unsure whether you meet criteria for a diagnosis, therapy can still be beneficial to treat the symptoms. There are also many self-help books available on the topic of ADHD in adults and its associated symptoms (organizations skills training, social skills development, etc.).

Find a Therapist

If you want to start your search for a mental health professional, consider using an online directory. Doing so allows you to narrow down your search by things like locations, expertise, and cost.

7 Self-Help Strategies For Managing Adult ADHD

To help manage ADHD symptoms, there are also a number of simple, everyday practices that focus on organizational and time management skills as well as lifestyle changes.

Here are seven helpful self-help strategies for managing adult ADHD:

1. Create a Routine That Follows a Set Schedule

Setting a schedule and routine helps to structure your days so if you struggle with impulsive actions and concentration issues, a routine can be something you can follow without a lot of need to plan your day as it’s happening.

2. Get Organized & Maintain Organization Daily

It is important to have designated spots for things like school/work supplies, shoes, clothing, wallet and keys, etc. Also, if you do all your work from the same place you relax, you may have a hard time separating your emotions and experiences.

3. Think Through & Manage Distractions 

Learn what background noises impede attention and what may help, such as movement or music. Learning this can help you with your tasks and give you ideas on how you can find ways to get more accomplished.

4. Take Scheduled Breaks 

When completing long tasks, try to break down long or complicated tasks into shorter, more manageable ones. Breaks are helpful because it can be easy to get overstimulated with ADHD.

5. Search For & Create Positive Opportunities

Identifying ways in which you excel can help create positive experiences. Finding ways to increase or maximize your own serotonin and dopamine is a good way to help you manage ADHD.

6. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Eat nutritious foods and get regular physical exercise. Having a healthy and balanced lifestyle is important as ADHD can make it hard to stick to tasks and commitments. This is a great way to feel good and have accountability for yourself.

7. Try Body-Doubling

When you are doing a task and having a hard time concentrating, having someone around doing their own work or a task they need to do can be motivating and make it easier for you to begin any work you may be putting off. This is a concept known as ADHD body doubling. 

Adult ADHD & Co-Occurring Mental Health Concerns

One of the biggest concerns for people with ADHD is the co-occurrence of other mental health disorders. In fact, the majority of those diagnosed with ADHD are also diagnosed with a second or third co-occurring disorder. Only a trained healthcare professional can evaluate and diagnose these disorders.

Common disorders that co-occur with ADHD include:2

  • Generalized anxiety disorder
  • Social anxiety disorder
  • Major depressive disorder
  • Intermittent explosive disorder
  • Oppositional defiant disorder
  • Substance use disorders
  • Personality disorders
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder
  • Tic disorder
  • Autism spectrum disorder

Final Thoughts on ADHD in Adults

What you are dealing with may be unique to you, but you are not alone. Talking to a therapist or reaching out to a trusted friend or family member can make a positive difference. Don’t be afraid to seek help.

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 marketing by the companies mentioned below.

ADHD Management Tools

Inflow App Inflow is the #1 science-based app to help you manage your ADHD. Their support system helps you understand your neurodiverse brain, and build lifelong skills. Free Trial

Virtual Psychiatry

Talkiatry Get help from a real doctor that takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with top-rated psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment within a week. Free Assessment

Online Therapy 

BetterHelp Get support and guidance from a licensed therapist. BetterHelp has over 20,000 therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy.  Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you. Get Started

Choosing Therapy  Directory 

You can search for therapists by specialty, experience, insurance, or price, and location. Find a therapist today

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by BetterHelp, Inflow, and Talkiatry.

For Further Reading

  • Best ADHD Books
  • 15 Best ADHD Blogs
  • Mental Health America
  • National Alliance on Mental Health
  • MentalHealth.gov

Adult ADHD Infographics

ADHD Definition and Diagnosis Signs and Symptoms of Adult ADHD Getting Help for Adult ADHD Self-Help Strategies for Managing Adult ADHD

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.

  • What is ADHD (2020), Center for Disease Control and Prevention Website. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html

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

  • Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (2019), Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research website. Retrieved from: Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  • The Face of ADHD in Women, The ADHD Centre. website. Retrieved from: ADHD Women: When Symptoms are Ignored & Disregarded (adhdcentre.co.uk)

  • ADHD and Addiction (2019), American Addiction Centers website. Retrieved from: ADHD and Addiction (americanaddictioncenters.org)

  • Undiagnosed ADHD a High Cost for Society (2015), Attention Deficit Disorder Association website. Retrieved from: Undiagnosed Adult ADHD a High Cost for Society | ADDA – Attention Deficit Disorder Association

  • Laub, Erica. Treatment for Adult ADHD: Medication, Therapy, & Self-Help Strategies. (2022). ChoosingTherapy. https://www.choosingtherapy.com/adult-adhd-treatment/

update history

We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.

  • Originally Published: April 29, 2021
    Original Author: Sidney Deupree, MA, LPC, NCC
    Original Reviewer: Lynn Byars, MD, MPH, FACP

  • Updated: January 6, 2023
    Author: No Change
    Reviewer: No Change
    Primary Changes: Updated for readability and clarity. Reviewed and added relevant resources. Added “What Is ADHD?” and “7 Self-Help Strategies For Managing Adult ADHD”. New material written by Silvi Saxena, MBA, MSW, LSW, CCTP, OSW-C and reviewed by Kristen Fuller, MD.

Recent Articles

How to Find a Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapist
How to Find a Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapist
If you’re autistic or neurodivergent, it can be challenging to find a therapist who understands the unique needs specific...
';
12 Symptoms & Signs of Adult ADHD
14 Symptoms & Signs of Adult ADHD
ADHD is a neurological, mental health disorder in which individuals experience chronic issues with inattention, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity. Without...
';
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD): Definition, Related Disorders, & How to Get Help
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD): Definition, Related Disorders, & How to Get Help
Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) refers to an intense sensitivity to real or perceived criticism, rejection, or disapproval. This condition...
';
ADHD Racing Thoughts: Connection, Causes, & How to Cope
ADHD Racing Thoughts: Connection, Causes, & How to Cope
Racing thoughts occur when a persons’ mind is filled with a constant stream of fast moving thoughts. Those with...
';
ADHD vs. Anxiety: Understanding the Differences
ADHD vs. Anxiety: Understanding the Differences
It is common for people with anxiety or ADHD to display similar symptoms. However, it is important to recognize...
';
ADHD & Insomnia: Links, Causes, & How to Cope
ADHD & Insomnia: Links, Causes, & How to Cope
It is not uncommon for a person with ADHD to also struggle with insomnia. This may be due to...
';
Headshot of Sidney Deupree, MA, LPC, NCC
Written by:

Sidney Deupree

MA, LPC, NCC
Headshot of Lynn Byars, MD, MPH, FACP
Reviewed by:

Lynn Byars

MD, MPH, FACP
  • What Is ADHD?Definition
  • Signs & Symptoms of Adult ADHDSigns
  • Presentations of ADHDPresentations
  • Do Women Experience Adult ADHD Differently Than Men?Genders
  • Challenges of Adult ADHDChallenges
  • Adult ADHD & Potential Substance UseSubstance Use
  • Treatment of Adult ADHDTreatment
  • How to Get Help For Adult ADHDGet Help
  • Self-Help Strategies For Managing Adult ADHDSelf-Help
  • Adult ADHD & Co-Occurring Mental Health ConcernsComorbidities
  • Final Thoughts on ADHD in AdultsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
  • Adult ADHD InfographicsInfographics
If you are in need of immediate medical help:
Medical
Emergency
911
Suicide Hotline
800-273-8255
See more Crisis Hotlines
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Write for Us
  • Careers
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • No Surprises Act
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
988
Click For More Crisis Hotlines
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
811
See more Crisis Hotlines
here
logo
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.
This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.
Choosing Therapy Logo
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit Cookie Settings to provide controlled consent. Cookie settings ACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

We use cookies to facilitate website functionality. Also, we use third-party cookies to track your website behavior and target advertising. These cookies are stored in your browser only with your consent, and you have the choice of opting out.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non Necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

Save & Accept