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Adult ADHD: Recognizing the Signs, Getting a Diagnosis, and Finding the Right Treatment

Two women sitting at a work table, looking at a laptop screen and reviewing documents in a modern office setting.

Many people recognize ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) as a childhood condition. We picture children who can’t sit still, have endless energy, interrupt in class, or struggle with organization at school and at home.


But here’s a surprising fact: about 8.7 million adults in the United States live with ADHD. In adults, ADHD often goes undetected and undiagnosed, leaving people wondering why they feel constantly distracted, overwhelmed, or restless.



What ADHD Looks Like in Adults


Adult ADHD symptoms can be subtle and easy to overlook. If you’ve found yourself asking, “What’s wrong with me?” or “Why can’t I focus like other people?”, you’re not alone.


You may notice:


  • Chronic procrastination – waiting until the last minute to start important tasks

  • Task pile-up – feeling overwhelmed by days or weeks of incomplete work

  • Interrupting others – talking over friends, coworkers, or family

  • Restlessness – feeling on edge without knowing why


While these traits can sometimes be part of personality, when they cause disruption—such as relationship problems, job difficulties, anxiety, increased accident risk, or substance use issues—they may point to adult ADHD.


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How to Know If It’s ADHD


The first step toward answers is to rule out other causes for your symptoms. A thorough medical exam can help determine if you’re dealing with:


  • Low blood sugar

  • Thyroid disorders

  • Seizure disorders

  • Brain injuries

  • Other developmental or medical conditions


Once medical issues are ruled out, the next step is a comprehensive ADHD assessment with a qualified mental health professional. Your clinician will explore:


  • Medical and mental health history (past and present)

  • Childhood behaviors related to attention and impulse control

  • Current challenges affecting work, relationships, and daily life


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Adult ADHD Treatment Options


While there’s no “cure” for ADHD, effective ADHD treatment plans can help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.


Common treatment approaches include:


  • Medication – to help manage ADHD symptoms and any co-occurring anxiety or depression

  • Psychotherapy – to develop coping strategies, improve focus, and strengthen relationships

  • ADHD education – to understand how ADHD affects your brain and life

  • Skill-building – for organization, time management, and emotional regulation


Woman in a suit attentively listens to another person in an office, holding a pen. Books and a vase are in the blurred background.


Taking the First Step


As a clinical therapist specializing in ADHD assessments and therapy, I encourage you to seek an evaluation if you recognize these signs in yourself. The sooner you know what’s behind your struggles, the sooner you can start building tools to thrive.


You can be closer today than you were yesterday to becoming your best self. Your ADHD doesn’t define you—it’s just one part of your story.



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