Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, commonly referred to as ADHD, is primarily recognized as a condition affecting children. However, a growing number of adults are starting to realize that their difficulties with concentration, focus, and restlessness might be linked to undiagnosed ADHD, largely due to viral social media content that has garnered millions of views. A recent national survey involving 1,000 American adults indicates that 25% of them suspect they may suffer from undiagnosed ADHD. Mental health professionals are alarmed that only 13% of those surveyed have discussed these concerns with their healthcare providers.
ADHD, often seen as a childhood issue, is now making many adults question if their ongoing difficulties with attention and hyperactivity could indicate an undiagnosed condition, largely influenced by popular social media discussions.
A national survey from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine reveals that about 25% of adults suspect they might have undiagnosed ADHD. Mental health experts are concerned that just 13% of those who suspect they have ADHD have talked to their doctor about it.
This trend raises worries about the potential risks associated with self-diagnosing, which could lead to inappropriate treatment.
Dr. Justin Barterian, a psychologist and clinical assistant professor in Ohio State’s Psychiatry and Behavioral Health department, explained, “Anxiety, depression, and ADHD can share similar symptoms, but receiving the wrong treatment may worsen conditions instead of helping individuals improve their functioning.”
It’s estimated that 4.4% of adults aged 18 to 44 have ADHD, and some may not get diagnosed until later in life, according to Barterian.
He added, “Awareness is increasing regarding how ADHD symptoms can persist into adulthood. Many people, especially those whose children have been diagnosed, may start recognizing these traits in themselves since ADHD is a genetic condition.”
Younger adults are more inclined to think they might have undiagnosed ADHD compared to older generations, and they are also more proactive about seeking help.
Barterian advises that individuals who suspect they may have ADHD consult a healthcare provider who can refer them to a mental health specialist for a comprehensive evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and proper treatment.
“If social media content prompts you to think you might meet the criteria for ADHD, I encourage seeking an assessment from a psychologist, psychiatrist, or physician,” Barterian recommended.
What is Adult ADHD? Adults with ADHD exhibit significant issues with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior that create persistent challenges in various aspects of their lives, including work, home, and educational settings. These symptoms are enduring and can often be traced back to childhood.
Adult ADHD can affect:
- Those diagnosed as children who continue to exhibit symptoms into adulthood.
- Individuals who are diagnosed for the first time as adults, having previously experienced symptoms that were overlooked or misdiagnosed.
Hyperactivity is generally less noticeable in adults compared to children. Many adults with ADHD face difficulties with memory and concentration, and symptoms may intensify under stress or when life demands increase.
What are common types of ADHD? There are three primary types of ADHD:
- Inattentive ADHD – Characterized by challenges in maintaining focus and high distractibility, it is also referred to as attention-deficit disorder (ADD).
- Hyperactive and Impulsive ADHD – Marked by high levels of hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.
- Combined ADHD – This type involves a combination of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms with other mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
Barterian noted, “ADHD symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Some may struggle more with focus during lectures or organizational skills, while others may find social interactions difficult due to impulsive behavior and inability to keep up in conversations.”
Survey Methodology This research was executed by SSRS using its Opinion Panel Omnibus platform. This national survey is conducted bi-monthly and employs a probability-based sampling method. The data was gathered from August 16 to August 18, 2024, consisting of 1,006 participants. The survey was administered through web (n=975) and telephone (n=31) mediums in English. The margin of error for the total responses is +/-3.8 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. All data from the SSRS Opinion Panel Omnibus are weighted to accurately represent the U.S. adult population aged 18 and older.
