How ADHD Affects Adults Differently Than Children

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has three different categories: 

• Inattentive type 
• Hyperactive or impulsive type
• Combined 

No matter which type you have, the symptoms and challenges you experience with ADHD can evolve as you get older. In fact, your ADHD may present very differently when you’re an adult from when you were a child.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a little over 11% of children aged 3-17 are diagnosed with ADHD. Some people with ADHD don’t get an official diagnosis until adulthood. 

At Greathope Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services in Garland, Texas, psychiatrist Chima Asikaiwe, MD, and psychiatric nurse practitioner Cecilia Chanda, DNP, PMHNP, help children and adults of all ages manage ADHD symptoms. 

ADHD types and how they change

ADHD symptoms can change over time. Our team might diagnose you with:

Inattentive ADHD

Inattentive ADHD involves challenges in paying attention and staying on task, which can present in structured settings like school or the workplace. You might have trouble staying organized at home or elsewhere. 

Hyperactive ADHD

Hyperactive ADHD can make it hard for you to sit still, even at times when sitting still and staying quiet are expected. You might feel talkative or restless. Hyperactive symptoms are more likely to decline once you reach adulthood. 

Combined ADHD

People with combined ADHD meet the criteria for both other types based on their symptoms. 

With any ADHD type, you might have trouble regulating your emotions. 

ADHD symptoms in children

A teacher, parent, or guardian might recognize the symptoms of ADHD in a child. Teachers and parents might not notice or recognize symptoms, which is a reason why many people aren’t diagnosed until adulthood, when they notice symptoms on their own. 

Here are some common childhood ADHD symptoms:

• Trouble paying attention at school
• Trouble following instructions
• Restlessness
• Lots of running around and climbing
• Frequently interrupting others
• Frequently losing toys and school supplies
• Forgetfulness
• Trouble finishing homework, chores, and other tasks that require focus

Our team provides individualized, age-appropriate care for children with ADHD. Your child might need extra support at school in addition to treatments like medications or behavior therapy. 

ADHD symptoms in adults

As an adult, you might be more likely to notice the symptoms of ADHD on your own. Adults are less likely to be blatantly hyperactive, like running around and climbing. However, hyperactivity can show up in more subtle ways, like fidgeting. 

As an adult, your ADHD symptoms might include:

• Trouble staying focused at work
• Not keeping up with household chores and maintenance
• Being disorganized at work and home
• Procrastination
• Inability to multitask
• Needing constant stimulation or activities
• Forgetfulness
• Frequently misplacing items like your keys or wallet
• Talkativeness and interrupting others

Adults have more responsibilities than children, so the symptoms can seem more severe or frequent. Up to 70% of adults with ADHD also have trouble falling or staying asleep. 

Get in touch

If you have symptoms of ADHD or recognize signs in your child, get in touch. Call our office or request an appointment online today.