ADHD in Adults and Children: What it is, Main Signs, Differences and Treatments
A Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), also known internationally as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), is a neurodevelopmental condition that usually manifests itself in childhood and may persist into adulthood. Although the main symptoms involve inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity, the way they present themselves varies depending on the age of the person.
What is ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the capacity for sustained attention, impulse control and activity level. It can appear in three main forms:
- Predominantly inattentive form
- Predominantly hyperactive and impulsive
- Combined form
Although it is most visible at school age, ADHD can accompany people throughout their lives and interfere with their academic and professional performance and personal relationships.
ADHD doesn't always manifest itself through visible behaviour, such as agitation or impulsivity. In many cases, especially in the predominantly attention-deficit forms, the symptoms go unnoticed for years. This type is characterised by difficulty maintaining focus, easy distraction, forgetting tasks and disorganisation.
It is often confused with lack of motivation or interest, which delays diagnosis and can significantly affect school and work performance and relationships, even without signs of hyperactivity.
Differences between ADHD in children and adults
In children, The symptoms are more obvious and behavioural: constant fidgeting, interrupting conversations, difficulty waiting their turn, easy frustration and impulsiveness.
In adults, The symptoms tend to be more internal: mental restlessness, difficulty relaxing, disorganisation, forgetfulness and impulsive decision-making. Anxiety, depression or associated sleep disturbances are common. Many adults develop compensatory strategies that can mask the problem.
Most common symptoms of ADHD
In children
- Difficulty paying attention
- Forgetting instructions
- Loss of school materials
- Difficulty waiting their turn
- Impulsiveness
- Excessive restlessness
- Irregular school performance
- Difficulty maintaining friendships
In adults
- Difficulty maintaining attention
- Procrastination
- Forgetting appointments
- Impulsive decisions
- Feeling mentally overwhelmed
- Difficulty planning the day
- Professional or relationship instability
- Frequent frustration or impatience
Diagnosis of ADHD
Diagnosis is clinical and carried out by a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist or child psychiatrist. It involves:
- Interviews with the patient (and parents/carers in the case of children)
- Behavioural assessment questionnaires
- Checking for symptoms present since childhood
- Impact assessment in various contexts
- Exclusion of other causes, such as anxiety or learning difficulties
In adults, it can be more complex because the symptoms may have been ignored for years.
Treatment for ADHD
Treatment must be personalised and can include medical, psychological and educational approaches.
Pharmacological treatment
They can be used stimulant medicines or non-stimulant medicines, They should always be prescribed and monitored by a specialist doctor. The choice depends on each case and the patient's needs.
Psychological interventions
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Training in organisational skills, time management and emotional regulation
- Psychoeducation to understand the disorder
- Family involvement in the case of children
- Social skills training
Support in the school and professional environment
- Individual education plans
- Adaptations to assessment
- Pedagogical support
- Organisational strategies for adults (diaries, reminders, division of tasks, less distracting environments)
Practical strategies for everyday life
- Establish routines
- Break tasks down into small steps
- Use reminders, alarms and lists
- Practising physical exercise
- Ensuring good sleep and adequate nutrition
- Minimise distractions during work or study
- Positive reinforcement instead of criticism
- Seek professional support when necessary
Conclusion
ADHD is a real condition that affects thousands of people. Identifying the signs, understanding the disorder and seeking specialised support are essential steps towards effective treatment.
With proper monitoring, personalised strategies and a favourable environment, it is possible to significantly improve quality of life.
If you spot these signs, book an appointment online and speak to a professional who can help you.
