I’m an Adult Now, I Thought This Was Going to Go Away

Adult ADD: It’s Not Just a Kid Thing: Graham NC Counselor

Attention Deficit problems have long been known to affect children.   Many people think of out of control children when they think of ADD problems.  Clearly, ADD affects children socially, at school, and at home.   However, adult ADD dramatically affects adults in the same ways.  ADD problems affect these adults in a variety of ways.

ADD Affects Social Relationships

Adult ADD symptoms significantly affect social interactions.  In some, ADD symptoms go into remission.   However, roughly 80% of adults maintain their ADD symptoms.  This affects marital and dating relationships.   Impulsive and inattentive behaviors dramatically affect the nature of relationships.   In many cases, successful, long-term relationships depend on the abilities of others to adapt.  Consequently, partners who exhibit patience and understand the nature of the symptoms are instrumental in helping a  relationship to endure.

ADD Affects Homelife

Just as in children, adult ADD problems create problems on the home front.  As mentioned, such problems persist in adults as well.  Not only does it affect marital and dating relationships.  In addition, it also affects parenting relationships.  It affects other family and interpersonal relationships as well.  Problems with organization, follow through, impulsivity, and being attentive affect the nature of relationships.  Another possible issue is the prevalence of substance abuse.   Between 35% and 70% of adults with substance abuse problem also had a childhood ADD diagnosis.  Therefore, ADD problems complicate parenting and family relationships.

ADD Affects Employment

Finally, Adult ADD complicates school and work.  Adults who are in school can expect the same struggles as children.  However, adults also suffer the effects of attention deficit problems at work.  According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, there are at least three aspects of ADD that affect employment.  First, ADD adults struggle to realize their earning potential.  Second, the need for adult social assistance is increased.  Finally, adults with ADD typically struggle with completing their education.  They are also at higher risk of being involved in crime.  These issues all greatly affect ADD adults in the workplace.  Fortunately, determined adults can overcome ADD struggles have a successful work experience.

IADD affects adults in many of the same ways it affects children.  Clearly, there is a stigma to those who manage attention deficit problems with stimulant medication.  In many cases, therapy complements the use of medication to help with ADD symptoms.  If you think you might have adult ADD, click here for a list of 19 symptoms.