Is It Possible to Develop ADHD as an Adult?

ADHD is often thought of as a childhood condition. However, many adults who experience challenges with focus, organization and impulsivity may be surprised to learn they have ADHD. While the symptoms may present differently in adults than in children, ADHD can significantly impact an adult's life at work, at home and in relationships. 

Can adults develop ADHD?

The short answer is no, you can’t develop ADHD as an adult. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means it’s present from birth and affects the way the brain functions. However, adults with ADHD may not have been diagnosed in childhood, or their symptoms may not have been as noticeable. Symptoms of ADHD in adulthood can become more prominent in adulthood due to:

• Life experiences
• Increased stress
• Changes in routine

Recognizing the signs of ADHD in adults

ADHD can manifest differently in adults compared to children. Some common signs of ADHD in adults include:

• Trouble focusing — Adults with ADHD may find it challenging to concentrate on tasks, especially those they don’t find interesting. They may be easily distracted by noises or sights around them, or they may switch from one activity to another without finishing either one. This can make it hard to stay on track at work or complete household chores. 
• Organization challenges — Keeping track of bills, deadlines, appointments and belongings can be a constant struggle for adults with ADHD. They may forget important information, lose things frequently or have difficulty planning ahead. This can lead to missed deadlines, financial stress and feelings of disorganization. 
• Time management issues — Adults with ADHD may struggle with managing their time effectively. They may underestimate how long tasks will take, procrastinate on starting projects and have difficulty meeting deadlines. This can lead to stress, frustration, and conflict at work or in personal relationships. 
• Impulsivity — Acting without thinking first can be a hallmark of ADHD. Adults with ADHD may blurt things out in meetings, make impulsive purchases or have a hard time waiting their turn. This can sometimes lead to strained relationships or work-related problems. 
• Restlessness and fidgeting — While not as common in adults as in children, some adults with ADHD may experience physical restlessness, such as fidgeting, tapping their feet or squirming in their seats. 
• Emotional dysregulation — Adults with ADHD may struggle to manage their emotions effectively. They may experience frequent mood swings, feel easily overwhelmed or have difficulty controlling their temper. 

It’s important to remember that these are just some signs, and not everyone with ADHD will experience all of them. The severity of symptoms can also vary greatly. If you suspect you may have ADHD, talking to a healthcare professional is the first step. 

The journey to diagnosis and support

Getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult can be a life-changing experience. A diagnosis can help you understand yourself better and explain some of the challenges you’ve faced throughout life. Here’s what you can expect on the road to an ADHD diagnosis:

• Consultation with a healthcare professional — A doctor or mental health professional will ask you detailed questions about your symptoms, your childhood history and any current challenges you're facing. 
• Psychological evaluation — This evaluation may involve standardized tests to assess your attention, focus and impulsivity. 
• Ruling out other conditions — Some conditions can mimic ADHD symptoms, so a healthcare professional will want to rule those out before making a diagnosis. 

Living a fulfilling life with ADHD

If you’re diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, it’s important to remember you’re not alone. There are many resources available to help you manage your symptoms and live a fulfilling life. Here are some strategies that can be beneficial:

• Medication
• Therapy
• Organization tools
• Regular exercise
• Healthy diet
• Enough sleep
• Support groups
• Executive Function coaching

Finding strength in the ADHD experience

While ADHD can present challenges, it can also come with unique strengths. Here are some positive qualities often associated with ADHD:

• Creativity — People with ADHD can have boundless creativity and a unique way of thinking outside the box. They may excel in fields that require creative problem-solving or innovative approaches.
• Enthusiasm and passion — Adults with ADHD can bring a contagious enthusiasm and passion to their interests and pursuits. This can be motivating and inspiring to those around them. 
• Resilience — Having faced challenges throughout their lives, adults with ADHD often develop a strong sense of resilience. They learn to adapt, overcome obstacles and keep moving forward. 
• Hyperfocus — While trouble focusing can be a challenge, some adults with ADHD can experience hyperfocus on tasks they find truly engaging. This intense focus can be a valuable asset in certain professions or creative endeavors.

Self-compassion, self-advocacy and building a supportive network 

Living with ADHD can sometimes lead to feelings of frustration, discouragement or even shame. It’s important to practice self-compassion and accept yourself for who you are. Here are some tips for self-advocacy and building self-esteem:

• Be kind to yourself.
• Celebrate your strengths.
• Communicate openly.
• Set realistic goals.

Surrounding yourself with supportive people can also make a big difference in your life with ADHD. Here’s how to build a strong support network:

• Connect with others with ADHD.
• Talk to your family and friends.
• Find a mentor or coach.

Remember that ADHD is a manageable condition. With the right support system, tools and strategies, you can overcome challenges, embrace your strengths, and live a fulfilling and successful life with ADHD. 

If you’re an adult with ADHD, you can get empowered to embrace your strengths and build a fulfilling life

At Beyond BookSmart’s division for adults, WorkSmart Coaching, we believe that Executive Function skills can be: 

• Taught
• Learned
• Applied for success by any person

This view informs all our Executive Function coaching services. 

Our services are also customizable to each person’s needs, learning differences, emotional challenges, etc. Adults who didn’t know they had ADHD may be overwhelmed and not know where to start. Working with an Executive Function coach helps uncover your weaknesses and celebrate your strengths. This customization allows us to help every person work toward becoming the most capable version of themselves. 

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an inquiry call.