Top 6 Biggest Questions About ADHD in Adults!

Diagnoses of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) have increased dramatically in recent years, especially among adults. This increase has led to much debate about what causes the disorder and how we should deal with it. Here are some key questions about ADHD and answers from a neurologist.

1. Why is ADHD becoming more common?

In recent years, the rise in ADHD diagnoses, especially in adults, has attracted attention. In the UK, ADHD diagnoses have increased 20-fold since 2000. Another study found that over the past 10 years, the number of ADHD diagnoses in adults has increased seven-fold. At the same time, the number of ADHD medications prescribed increased by 20% in 2021-2022 alone.

ADHD is no longer just a problem for children. In fact, for the first time in history, more adults are being prescribed medication for ADHD than children. This may lead many to wonder if the disorder is a temporary 'trend,' but statistics and research show that ADHD is a real and growing condition.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is often associated with children, but in reality, many adults suffer from it too.

2. What causes ADHD?

We still don't know for sure what causes ADHD specifically, but research suggests that it involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors. ADHD is often accompanied by a thinning of the cerebral cortex, especially in areas involved in controlling behavior and emotions. Research also suggests that ADHD is highly hereditary, with about 80% of the likelihood of developing the condition being due to genetic factors.

In addition to genetics, there are some environmental factors that can also play a role, such as trauma during pregnancy or childbirth. However, genetics is still the main factor that causes ADHD.

In adults, ADHD symptoms can present differently than in children, making diagnosis more difficult. Symptoms of ADHD can sometimes be confused with other mental health problems.

3. Does ADHD only affect children?

A common misconception is that ADHD only affects children. Although ADHD often appears in childhood, many adults are affected as well. In children, ADHD is often more easily recognized because of symptoms such as hyperactivity and inattention. However, in adults, symptoms such as inattention and difficulty controlling emotions may be less obvious, but still persist and have a major impact on daily life.

Adults with ADHD often struggle with mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, due to the difficulty coping with everyday tasks. Many adults are not diagnosed with ADHD until they experience problems with work or relationships, and only then do they seek help.

4. Why does ADHD in adults look different than ADHD in children?

The biggest difference between ADHD in children and adults is hyperactivity. In children, ADHD is often accompanied by hyperactivity, but in adults, this often diminishes, replaced by inattention and difficulty controlling emotions. Over time, brain development improves some aspects of ADHD, but this does not mean that adults no longer face difficulties.

Many adults with ADHD realize that their lives would have been easier if they had been diagnosed and treated earlier in life. ADHD can cause significant difficulties in school, career, and relationships, especially when not diagnosed and treated promptly.

5. Can women get ADHD?

ADHD is often associated with the image of hyperactive and misbehaving boys, but the reality is that women can have ADHD too. However, ADHD in women is often less recognized because they do not typically exhibit the same hyperactivity as men. In women, ADHD can manifest as inattention, difficulty completing tasks, and thinking clearly, but these symptoms are less disruptive to the environment, so they are often overlooked.

This results in many women with ADHD being undiagnosed, or misdiagnosed. Failure to diagnose and treat ADHD can have serious mental and social consequences for women, reducing their quality of life and career opportunities.

6. Is ADHD a new disorder?

Although ADHD has only recently been defined and studied, its symptoms have been documented since the 18th century. Celebrities such as Kurt Cobain, James Dean, and Clark Gable have been said to have exhibited symptoms similar to ADHD. However, the increase in modern diagnoses of ADHD may be due to our now having better knowledge and tools to identify and treat it.

Increased awareness of ADHD and new diagnostic criteria have made it easier to identify ADHD. Additionally, social media and communications have helped spread information about ADHD, encouraging people to seek help when experiencing symptoms of the disorder.

ADHD is a complex and diverse disorder. It can present many challenges, but with increased understanding, we can help people with ADHD find solutions that work for them and improve their quality of life. Eliminating myths and improving awareness of ADHD is essential to ensure everyone has access to the right support and care.