Do Adults With ADHD Have Different Symptoms Than Children?

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and impulsivity. It’s commonly associated with children and teens, yet it also affects many adults. Symptoms change over time, however, so ADHD is often overlooked or misidentified in adults. 

At Broderick Healthcare in North Reading, Massachusetts, Kathleen Logan, FNP-C, treats ADHD in people of all ages. In this blog, we explain how ADHD symptoms vary between children and adults, explore why symptoms change, and discuss potential treatment options.

ADHD in children

About 7.1 million children ages 3 to 17 in the United States have ADHD. The disorder is often diagnosed once a child begins school, because symptoms are more obvious in structured environments like classrooms.

Childhood symptoms of ADHD include difficulty sitting still, trouble concentrating, and problems following instructions. Emotional outbursts that seem disproportionate to the situation are also common.

When teachers, counselors, or other adults observe these behaviors, they may encourage parents to have their children screened.

ADHD in adults

Despite improved screening efforts and greater awareness of ADHD, many people don’t receive a diagnosis until adulthood. One of the main reasons for this is that symptoms change over time. For example, the hyperactivity many children experience often fades, but it’s replaced with other symptoms, such as racing thoughts and persistent restlessness.

These issues may look different, but they can be just as disruptive at work and at home. Many adults with ADHD report difficulty staying organized, meeting deadlines, and following instructions. They’re also more likely to procrastinate and forget things, which can strain personal and professional relationships.

Even though ADHD symptoms in adults aren’t as obvious, proper diagnosis and treatment are important. Help is available, and it’s essential to remember that these challenges stem from the condition, not personal failings.

Why ADHD symptoms change

ADHD symptoms change with age because the brain continues growing and evolving over time. While signs of hyperactivity are most common in children and teens, adults often develop coping skills that make these signs less noticeable. Restlessness and difficulty focusing remain, but these challenges often become internalized, affecting finances, job responsibilities, and even family dynamics.

The good news is that ADHD can be diagnosed at any age. If you’re experiencing problems and think ADHD might be to blame, screening can provide peace of mind and improve your quality of life. 

How ADHD is diagnosed and treated in adults

Kathleen has years of experience diagnosing ADHD in adults. Before making any treatment recommendations, she reviews your health records, asks about your symptoms, and has you complete a clinical questionnaire. She also conducts a physical exam and orders lab testing to rule out other underlying issues that may cause similar symptoms.

If she confirms your diagnosis, Kathleen makes personalized treatment recommendations. Often, this includes medication, talk therapy, and healthy lifestyle changes. Combined, these factors can improve your focus, ease anxiety, and help keep symptoms at bay.

Schedule an ADHD evaluation

ADHD can make it challenging to focus and stay on task at work. It can even affect your personal life and relationships, but treatment is available to ease symptoms and can significantly improve your quality of life. 

Take the first step and schedule an evaluation for ADHD by requesting an appointment online or calling the Broderick Healthcare office at 617-905-1978.