A recent national survey has raised alarms about the increasing number of adults who suspect they may have undiagnosed Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). A quarter of adults now believe they might be living with ADHD, a disorder often associated with childhood, yet only a small fraction have consulted a doctor about it. Experts caution against jumping to conclusions without proper evaluation.
Rising Awareness Through Social Media
According to a survey of 1,000 adults conducted by The Ohio State University in Columbus, 25% of participants suspect they have ADHD. What’s even more concerning is that only about 1 in 8 of these individuals have shared their concerns with a healthcare provider. This shift in awareness is largely due to the surge of social media videos that highlight ADHD symptoms—many of which are rooted in childhood—that have gone viral and educated a broader audience.
“I think that the findings of the survey indicate that many people are concerned about their ability to pay attention,” said Dr. Justin Barterian, PhD, a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral health at The Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center. “Within our society, there are multiple demands on our attention and in general, people feel like they can’t keep up.”
While these revelations might seem alarming, they underscore the complexities of ADHD and the pressures people face in today’s “hustle culture,” where the expectations to multitask and constantly perform may overlap with ADHD-like symptoms.
ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression: A Dangerous Overlap
The overlap between ADHD symptoms and those of other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, complicates the diagnostic process. Dr. Barterian warns that without a clear diagnosis, individuals might receive the wrong treatment, potentially exacerbating their symptoms.
“Anxiety, depression, and ADHD—all these things can look a lot alike, but the wrong treatment can make things worse instead of helping that person feel better and improving their functioning,” says Dr. Barterian. Misdiagnoses are particularly common in adults, as the behavioral patterns of ADHD often mimic those of anxiety disorders and depression. In some cases, individuals may seek treatment for anxiety or depression without realizing that their underlying issue is ADHD.
Dr. Lenard Adler, a professor of psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, also notes the increase in ADHD diagnoses following the pandemic. “Data collected after the pandemic suggests that number may be even higher, with an estimated 15.5 million U.S. adults reporting an ADHD diagnosis—one-half of whom received the diagnosis in adulthood,” he says. This shift reflects both a growing awareness of adult ADHD and a deeper understanding of how it affects people across the lifespan.
Adult ADHD: A Childhood Condition That Endures
ADHD doesn’t suddenly develop in adulthood—it begins in childhood, often before age 12. For adults to be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must have been present during their early years, according to Dr. Adler. “That’s what distinguishes it from people that have a major stressor in their lives and are having some trouble paying attention or feel restless because they’re anxious,” he explains.
For many adults, the “aha” moment often comes after their children are diagnosed with ADHD. Given the genetic nature of the disorder, adults may recognize similar patterns in their own behavior. The realization that they may have been struggling with undiagnosed ADHD can be both relieving and frustrating for those who have faced years of difficulty without understanding the root cause.
The Different Types of ADHD
ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. There are three recognized types of ADHD: Inattentive ADHD, Hyperactive and Impulsive ADHD, and Combined ADHD. Inattentive ADHD is marked by distractibility and difficulty sustaining attention, while Hyperactive and Impulsive ADHD involves restlessness, fidgeting, and impulsive decision-making. Combined ADHD is a mix of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, making it particularly challenging for individuals to manage daily responsibilities.
Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
Although hyperactivity is more common in children, adults with ADHD often experience issues related to concentration, memory, and organization. “Symptoms of ADHD in adults include symptoms of inattention such as forgetfulness, difficulty sustaining attention, and frequently losing things. While adults also can display symptoms of hyperactivity like fidgeting or talking too much, hyperactivity symptoms often improve into adulthood, often replaced by more of an ‘internal restlessness,’” explains Dr. Barterian. These subtle shifts in symptom expression can make ADHD difficult to diagnose, especially when combined with other mental health disorders.
The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults is crucial, as untreated ADHD can contribute to long-term difficulties, including relationship problems, job instability, and an increased risk of substance abuse. “Many studies have found that adults with ADHD who don’t get treatment are more likely to have issues such as getting divorced or separated, and are more prone to substance abuse (including smoking) and car accidents,” says Dr. Adler. Seeking help from a healthcare professional is vital, and they can direct individuals toward proper evaluation and treatment, including medication and therapy.
Treatment options for adult ADHD include stimulant medications, such as Adderall or Vyvanse, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy to improve organizational skills and executive functioning. These interventions can significantly improve quality of life for those diagnosed.
Why Are So Many Adults Suspecting They Have ADHD?
The survey’s findings highlight a critical issue: While adult ADHD diagnoses have risen in recent years, the number of people suspecting they have ADHD is exceptionally high. Dr. Barterian attributes this to societal pressures, with many adults feeling overwhelmed by competing demands on their attention. Additionally, other mental health issues such as anxiety and depression often mimic ADHD symptoms, further complicating self-diagnosis. As Dr. Barterian puts it, “Within our society, ‘hustle culture’ is often idealized, and people may have unrealistic expectations about what they can accomplish in a day.” These expectations can blur the lines between typical stress and a diagnosable disorder, complicating the path to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should seek evaluation from a healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes and receive the appropriate care.
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