Newsroom | Community Health

By Todd Hoffman, M.D.

Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, affects more than 15 million American adults. The mental health disorder includes persistent problems such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior, according to the Mayo Clinic.

The neurodevelopmental disorder typically develops during childhood. While most people are diagnosed with ADHD in adolescence, some cases are not recognized or diagnosed until adulthood. As an adult, symptoms may appear differently and can often go undiagnosed. For example, adults might not be as hyperactive, but struggle with impulsiveness, restlessness and difficulty paying attention — from mild to severe.

As classified by the Mayo Clinic, adult ADHD symptoms may include:

While most adults experience some symptoms in their lives, it doesn’t mean they have ADHD. Symptoms also could be caused by other mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. If one or more of these symptoms are impacting your life, discuss this with your primary care provider. 

Adult ADHD doesn’t have to interfere with a person’s life. It’s a condition that can be managed with support and knowledge. The disorder is treated much like childhood ADHD with medications and psychological counseling. Need for support and treatment may vary throughout a person’s life. Talking with your provider can help you receive the most effective diagnosis and treatment. 

Let’s make it a good month.

Todd Hoffman, M.D., C.P.E., is chief medical officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, a division of Health Care Service Corp., a Mutual Legal Reserve Company.