Though AD/HD, by definition, always starts in early childhood it is often not diagnosed until later in life; in fact, the vast majority of the AD/HD testing patients here at the Neuropsychology Clinic are college-age or older.
Statistically speaking, roughly one of every three people with AD/HD eventually grows out of their symptoms; one of every three continues to have fewer or less severe symptoms as adults; and one of every three continues to have significant symptoms as adults.
AD/HD affects adults much like it affects children, only in a broader scope; in children, AD/HD can typically affect only two basic areas: school performance and relationships. In addition to these, AD/HD in adults also affects areas such as professional achievement, marital relations, and driving skills. For example, many adults with AD/HD find it difficult to organize their day and complete daily tasks. As a result, they frequently miss deadlines, appointments, meetings and other important obligations – some even lose their job simply because of the way the disorder affects their ability to complete their responsibilities. On the hyperactive-impulsive side, adults with AD/HD frequently make poor decisions while driving (e.g. pulling out in front of other drivers, running red lights) and are more prone to substance abuse, risky behavior and accidents.
In short, AD/HD is a real disorder that affects children and adults alike. Having AD/HD as an adult doesn’t make you a freak of nature, it makes you like approximately four percent of the otherwise “normal” population. AD/HD affects every aspect of patients’ lives and, if untreated, can cause serious social, academic, professional, family, and health-related problems. If you suspect that you have AD/HD, you can take the first step by contacting us at the Neuropsychology Clinic to schedule a testing appointment.
Information taken from www.mayoclinic.com
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