Understanding ADHD: Symptoms and Impact Across Ages
This article provides a comprehensive overview of ADHD, highlighting symptoms in children and adults, prevalence rates, gender differences in diagnosis, and treatment considerations. Recognizing ADHD early can lead to better management, supporting individuals across their lifespan.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by behavioral challenges such as impulsiveness, excessive activity, and difficulty concentrating. These signs often appear between ages 6 and 12, especially as children start school. Parenting a child with ADHD can feel isolating, but it’s a common condition affecting roughly 11% of school children—about 6.4 million in the U.S. Additionally, ADHD symptoms frequently extend into adulthood.
Approximately 2.5% of U.S. adults live with ADHD. Adults may experience less hyperactivity but often struggle with restlessness, impulsiveness, and focus issues. Treatment approaches are similar for all ages, though medication types may vary. Notably, boys are diagnosed with ADHD more frequently than girls, with studies indicating four out of five cases occur in boys.
According to the Attention Deficit Disorder Association, males are also more likely to be referred for testing and treatment than females.
