What is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental health conditions affecting children, and for many, symptoms continue into adulthood. In fact, about half of adults in the U.S. with ADHD received their diagnosis later in life.
Symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD can impact individuals in many aspects of their life including academic and professional achievements, interpersonal relationships, and daily functioning.
How Common is ADHD?
An estimated 20 million adults and children in the U.S. have ADHD and many go undiagnosed or untreated. In 2024, 11% of American children and 6% of adults had an ADHD diagnosis.
Boys are diagnosed more often than girls (13% compared to 7%), but this gap may reflect differences in how symptoms show up rather than true differences in how common ADHD is. Many people with ADHD also experience another mental health concern, such as anxiety, depression, or a learning disability.
What Are the Symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD can commonly present itself through inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness, or a combination of both. Common examples include:
- Inattentiveness – distracted easily, trouble paying attention, difficulty following through on tasks, disorganization, or forgetfulness
- Hyperactivity/Impulsivity – trouble sitting still, fidgeting, racing thoughts, interrupting others, or restlessness
Symptoms often change over time. As people grow up, they may learn to manage or mask their symptoms, so ADHD in adulthood can look different than it did in childhood.
Children with ADHD are at higher risk for injuries, social difficulties, family stress, and struggles in school. Adults may face challenges with relationships, everyday tasks, and job performance, and some are more likely to engage in risky behavior.
How Does ADHD Treatment Help?
Despite high numbers of ADHD diagnoses and estimated cases, about one third of American adults with an ADHD diagnosis are not receiving any type of treatment. Treatment can look several different ways:
- Therapy: A licensed professional can help you better understand yourself, build coping strategies, and manage stress and challenges related to ADHD symptoms. Therapy can also help identify and treat any co-occurring conditions.
- Medication: Certain medications can reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning. About one-third of adults with ADHD in the U.S. take medication for their symptoms.
The right approach is different for everyone, so talk with a licensed professional to find what works best for you. The first step is simply a conversation, and that one step can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
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