The challenges of becoming an adult with ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) begins in childhood, and its symptoms evolve as the person matures. We know that symptoms persist in approximately 70% of affected individuals during adolescence and around 40% into adulthood. Symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity decrease to a greater extent, while those of inattention remain largely unchanged over the years. However, individuals learn strategies to manage these lapses, so not everyone with ADHD needs to take medication for life.

ADHD throughout life

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The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a time of change, and young people face new challenges, such as managing their money independently. Some find it difficult to save, while others find it easy, but it's important to support and guide them. It's also a time of decision-making, and we can support them in these decisions: what higher education they will pursue or what job they want to do. We can help them explore their options, identify what motivates them, and what they would like to do, and help them prepare their resumes, considering which aspects are important and which are not.

Another important aspect of this period is friendships . It's a time of change, of meeting new people and forming new friendships. It involves stepping outside of familiar surroundings and putting social skills to the test. And then there are romantic relationships , with all that they entail. A general guideline that can be helpful during this phase is to stop and think about the consequences of your decisions before acting.

The child and adolescent mental health center makes the referral to the adult network. Some centers have specific programs to facilitate a smooth transition to adult services. The individual, being of legal age, will decide whether or not to continue their treatment.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder whose symptoms begin in childhood, and is one of the most common disorders.

ADHD, a common disorder in the child population

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The symptoms tend to lessen with age, so it's not as common among adults. This is why some adult psychiatrists aren't as familiar with the symptoms and the most appropriate treatments. In recent years, the situation has improved significantly.

There shouldn't be any differences. In practice, the difference is that the affected adult makes the decisions about their health: whether or not to take medication, the type of medication they prefer, etc., without any consideration for the family's opinion.

The support provided depends on the individual needs and characteristics of each boy or girl. Some require psycho-educational support to help them organize their studies, others need to learn effective study techniques, or guidance to determine their future path in higher education or the workforce. To know how to guide them effectively, it's crucial to listen to their own voice throughout their learning process.

Prevention is key before substance use begins. In Spain, according to the Survey on Alcohol and Other Drugs in Spain (EDADES) , the age of initiation for alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis is between 13 and 15 years old. It is crucial to emphasize the risks associated with these substances and to recognize that individuals with ADHD have a higher risk of early use and are more likely to develop a more severe addiction than adolescents without ADHD.

Making a decision regarding drug use

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It's important to assess whether or not treatment is necessary and evaluate potential side effects . Sometimes, we see young people discontinue treatment because they feel "down," "unmotivated," or because they lose their appetite or experience sleep problems. It's crucial to discuss the type of treatment, medication breaks, and individualize the treatment plan with the adolescent, taking into account their symptoms, academic and work demands, and potential side effects.

Treatment should be maintained until symptoms subside, depending on the intensity of the symptoms and the degree of impact on your daily life.

We can help by accompanying you throughout the process or by connecting you with specialists who can guide you. If you choose to help yourself from home, we can remind you of the importance of searching on different platforms or websites, creating a schedule with the days you will dedicate to this search, researching jobs that interest you and all the employment options available to you, reviewing your resume, and practicing interviews. On the other hand, if a professional is providing follow-up or guidance, they will be responsible for structuring and guiding the process.

It depends on the person and the type of job. For example, if a person with ADHD has a disability and wants to apply for a job where having that disability is a requirement, then they will have to specify it. I would say it's very subjective, and it has to be the person who assesses and decides whether or not disclosing it will be beneficial.

Analyzing what leads to frustration and seeing if it depends on you and if you can change it to reduce it. And trying to prevent it from affecting you at work by compartmentalizing it.

To people with ADHD who are starting out in the workforce , I would say be patient, write down important points to remember or memorize—in other words, give yourself instructions. If they struggle with time management, they should look for strategies, ask for help as soon as they notice difficulties, and not let them become a bigger problem. It's also important to disconnect after work.

It's not an obligation, it depends on the person, and if you tell them, explain how your ADHD affects you, both the positive and negative aspects, and how they can help you.

Listening to him, encouraging him in difficult times, being his safety net, and not judging his failures. Helping him face the challenges of the adult and working world.

It's a difficult question to answer. I think the working world needs to update itself in this area and recognize the potential of people with ADHD—their creativity, their daily effort, and other characteristics that are essential for the jobs of today and tomorrow. People with ADHD are great innovators.

Yes, realistically, analyzing whether it can actually be done and acquiring the knowledge to do so.

It is common for adults not diagnosed with ADHD to also have other psychiatric disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression with poor response to antidepressant treatment, substance abuse or dependence, or personality disorders. It is important to consult a clinical professional trained in the diagnosis of ADHD in adults to identify these comorbidities.

Yes, it's most common for people with ADHD to be fully functional adults. Furthermore, there are many examples of people with diagnosed ADHD who have achieved success in their fields, such as elite athletes Michael Phelps or Simone Biles, for example.

Ana Gómez Salcedo

Teacher specializing in ADHD and an adult with the disorder. Founding member of the AMATDAH association.

Asociación Madrileña de Adultos con TDAH (AMATDAH)

"Knowing I had ADHD, I've had to relearn many things."

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Well, it will depend on the severity of the symptoms and their impact on social, family, and work life. Most adults with ADHD lead fulfilling lives and are well-adjusted socially and professionally.

A person with ADHD will not necessarily develop another mental health disorder. It will depend on the symptoms they experience, the impact on their daily life, and the family support they receive, which will determine the course of their illness. We know that people with ADHD have a higher risk of dropping out of school prematurely, achieving educational levels below their potential, and being more prone to accidents, unwanted pregnancies, substance abuse, or leaving their jobs. However, with appropriate treatment, a person can avoid all these complications.

Usually due to their constant absentmindedness, lack of organization, impulsiveness, because they continually interrupt conversations or speak out of turn.