Author: Jason Eala, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Category: Mental Health Conditions
Tags: ADHD, Adult ADHD, Focus, Concentration, Treatment
Introduction
Did you know that ADHD doesn't just affect children? Many adults live with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) without even realizing it. If you've struggled with focus, organization, or impulse control throughout your life, you might be one of the estimated 4–5% of adults with ADHD.
Understanding adult ADHD is the first step toward getting the support you need to thrive in your personal and professional life.
What Is Adult ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain processes attention, impulses, and activity levels. While it begins in childhood, many people aren't diagnosed until adulthood—often because symptoms were overlooked or misattributed.
Adult ADHD is real, treatable, and more common than you might think.
Three Types of ADHD
1. Predominantly Inattentive Type
- Difficulty focusing and staying organized
- Easily distracted
- Forgetfulness in daily activities
- Trouble completing tasks
2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
- Restlessness and fidgeting
- Difficulty sitting still
- Acting without thinking
- Interrupting others
3. Combined Type
- Mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms
- Symptoms may shift over time
- Most common form in adults
Common Signs of ADHD in Adults
ADHD often looks different in adults than in children. Adults may experience:
Attention & Focus Difficulties
- Trouble concentrating during meetings
- Losing items like keys, phones, or wallets
- Starting but not finishing projects
- Missing deadlines
- Feeling overwhelmed by complex tasks
Hyperactivity & Restlessness
- Feeling mentally “on the go”
- Difficulty relaxing
- Talking excessively
- Fidgeting
- Racing thoughts
Impulsivity & Emotional Regulation
- Hasty decisions
- Interrupting others
- Low frustration tolerance
- Mood swings or emotional outbursts
Impact on Daily Life
- Chronic lateness
- Relationship challenges
- Job performance struggles
- Anxiety or depression
- Low self-esteem
If these sound familiar, it may be worth seeking a professional ADHD assessment.
Why ADHD Goes Undiagnosed in Adults
Many adults with ADHD developed coping strategies that masked their symptoms. They may have been labeled as:
- “Daydreamers” instead of inattentive
- “Disruptive” instead of hyperactive
- “Underachievers” instead of having executive function challenges
In addition:
- Women are often underdiagnosed due to subtler symptoms
- High-functioning adults may compensate until stress increases
- Anxiety or depression may overshadow ADHD symptoms
How Is Adult ADHD Diagnosed?
A proper evaluation includes:
1. Clinical Interview
Discussion of:
- Current symptoms
- Childhood history
- Family history
- Work/school patterns
- Medical and psychiatric background
2. Standardized Questionnaires
Used to measure:
- Symptom frequency
- Functional impairment
- DSM-5 alignment
3. Ruling Out Other Conditions
To avoid misdiagnosis, clinicians assess for:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Sleep disorders
- Thyroid issues
- Substance use
4. Collateral Information
When possible, input from loved ones adds helpful perspective.
Treatment Options for Adult ADHD
ADHD is highly treatable. Most adults improve significantly with a combination of medication and behavioral strategies.
Medication Management
Stimulants (First Line)
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
- Amphetamine-based medications (Adderall, Vyvanse)
- Increase dopamine and norepinephrine
- Improve focus, reduce impulsivity
Non-Stimulants
- Atomoxetine (Strattera)
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
- Guanfacine (Intuniv)
Best for:
- Anxiety
- Substance use history
- Stimulant intolerance
Behavioral Strategies & Lifestyle Changes
Organizational Tools
- Calendars and reminders
- Breaking tasks into smaller steps
- Routines and structured systems
Time Management
- Pomodoro technique
- Visual schedules
- Buffer time for appointments
Lifestyle Modifications
- Regular exercise
- Adequate sleep
- Balanced diet
- Stress-reducing practices
Therapeutic Support
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- ADHD coaching
- Support groups
Living Well with ADHD
With treatment and support, adults with ADHD can:
- Improve focus
- Boost productivity
- Strengthen relationships
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Achieve personal goals
ADHD doesn’t define you—it just means your brain works differently.
When to Seek Professional Help
Consider an ADHD evaluation if you:
- Have long-term difficulty with focus or organization
- Struggle at work despite effort
- Experience impulsivity or restlessness
- Feel overwhelmed or anxious
- Suspect your symptoms were missed in childhood
Early diagnosis and treatment can be life-changing.
How Aegis Behavioral Health Group Can Help
Dr. Jason Eala specializes in adult ADHD. Services include:
- Comprehensive ADHD evaluations
- Medication management
- Telehealth across Hawaiʻi and Delaware
- Personalized treatment plans
- Compassionate, non-judgmental care
Insurance accepted:
HMSA, UHA, United Healthcare, HOKU/Medquest, Medicare
Self-pay available.
Take the First Step
📞 Hawaii: (808) 746-3664
📞 Delaware: (302) 592-3780
📧 contact@aegisbehavioral.com
Schedule your ADHD evaluation today.
Additional Resources
Crisis support: Call 988 or text HOME to 741741.
About the Author
Jason Eala, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, and medication-assisted treatment. He provides care to patients in Hawaii and Delaware through Aegis Behavioral Health Group.
Keywords: adult ADHD, ADHD diagnosis, ADHD treatment, attention deficit disorder, ADHD Hawaii, ADHD Delaware, psychiatric nurse practitioner, telehealth psychiatry
