ADHD in adulthood. Description of symptoms and selected spheres of functioning in adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. The core symptoms observed in childhood tend to diminish during adolescence and adulthood; however, a significant number of individuals continue to display ADHD-related behaviors or experience secondary consequences of the disorder even in later life. Adolescents and adults with ADHD often struggle with social relationships, as well as in their professional and financial domains. They are more likely to be negatively evaluated in their interactions with others, have difficulties functioning effectively at work, experience less frequent job promotions, and possess fewer financial resources compared to their healthy peers. It is essential to note that quality of life for this group depends on factors such as early symptom recognition, appropriate treatment, and the co-occurrence of other mental disorders.

Increasingly, more studies on ADHD draw attention to slightly different patterns and symptoms in the group of girls and women with ADHD. Girls tend to exhibit attention problems without obvious hyperactivity and impulsiveness. The severity of symptoms is also often observed to increase later, primarily during adolescence, influenced by biological factors, but it may also be related to secondary difficulties. The emotionally labile symptoms presented by these adolescents can be mistaken for other behaviors typical of this life stage. The lack of proper diagnosis in this group results in girls not receiving the appropriate support and treatment, which may contribute to the exacerbation of their difficulties in adulthood.