Adults and ADHD: How Common Is It?

ADHD has become more widely known as a children's disorder, but it is also something adults have to contend with. Read more about it here. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or ADHD is usually diagnosed in children, thought it can often continue on into adulthood. In recent years, adult ADHD has become quite common, though it manifests slightly different symptoms than it normally does in children. Adult ADHD is usually diagnosed in adults who exhibit inattentiveness in their personal relationships at work and at home with their family. Adult sufferers often find it difficult to sustain a job and a relationship. Recognizing ADHD in adults In general, adult sufferers tend to experience problems at work, which usually results in frequent job changes. Because of these problems they tend to have a lower socioeconomic status, by virtue of being unable to sustain a job long-term, which is a primary requirement of career development. Adult sufferers of ADHD usually have a history of failure in professional and personal endeavors, and end up in lower-level jobs that don't require organizational skills, and have less responsibility. Adults with ADHD tend to find it difficult to support themselves, and their families, which often results in the breakdown of the family unit. Adults suffering from ADHD often have a history of multiple relationships and marriages. Diagnosing ADHD in adults No one should take it upon themselves to diagnose a friend or self-diagnose. This can lead to misunderstanding. But the more you know about an illness, the quicker you can suggest to a friend to get help. Or if you recognise symptoms in yourself, awareness can help you seek the proper help. ADHD sufferers fall into three types: 1. The inattentive type 2. The hyperactive and impulsive type 3. A combination of types 1 and 2. The above types of symptoms generally need to be present for at least six months, and a person must be experiencing difficulties in normal social functioning. If you recognize any of these types, then seek professional help immediately.