Can Adults Outgrow ADHD?

Rumers. Does ADHD “go away” as people get older? Let’s see. What does science say? Sometimes yes. Sometimes no.

Some professionals say that ADHD adults are different. As they get older, they can control themselves. Life changes over time. So do medical prodocols.

It’s not hard to figure out which kids have ADHD. Some kids with ADHD have a tough time keeping on task. Problems losing focus and following through are common. Paying attention is another issue too.

Hyperactivity and impulsivity are most common. Being always on the go makes social skills a challenge, as a child and as an adult as well.

• Early research includes that adults lose symptoms, hyperactivity, and fidgetiness symptoms increase. 
• Changes in the brain no longer meet the same factors.
• Can experience a variety of neurological differences (behavior).
• Negative social skills are less likely. 

Adults With ADHD

• Impulsive decision making
• Wandering attention
• Disorganization
• Procrastination
• Internal restlessness

What do the numbers say?

ADHD is a brain-based condition. There are structural differences. ADHD causes lasting damages. Research focus is lasting on children. In contrast, adults are often ignored. Only 29% adults meet diagnostic criteria. This research shows that significant change happens with age. In contrast, others shows that little change happens. Other research is the opposite.

• 81% of adults with ADHD also have at least one symptom.
• Difficulty keeping long-term friendships (problems making friends).
• 37.5% adults with ADHD have concurring disorder (ODD, anxiety, PTSD).
• Difficulty holding multiple jobs (get fired often).
• Higher divorce rates.

The Best Possible Solution? 

The causes of ADHD are lasting. This results in brain changes. It’s less common, but ADHD shows up in adulthood. They may struggle, meet criteria (recover).

• Cognitive tasks
• Irregular levels of gray matter (brain)
• Changes in hyperactivity declines
• Interventions help brain to grow

The trick of identifying yes or no? Do appearances increase or decrease? Lifestyle is one. Low key behavior is a tell-tale way. Blank stare? Shut everything off. Become less active too.

QUESTION: What do you think, Have you seen ADHD adults with symptoms?