“There’s only one task I absolutely have to get done today, so I commit to focusing on that. I clear a space on my desk, silence my phone, turn the TV off and sit down to tackle it.
As I turn my laptop on, I start to feel a bit heavy. Like there’s a physical weight holding down my productivity. So I decide maybe if I have a snack first, get some energy, I may put myself in a better space to dive in… so I go to the kitchen and start to make a sandwich. I get a plate down from the cupboard, take two slices of bread from the bread box and lay them on the plate. I retrieve a fresh jar of mustard from the pantry, and while I have the door open, I see that I’ve forgotten to organise my last grocery delivery. So I decide to take everything out of the pantry and remedy that, right there and then.
Once everything is out of the pantry, I get a bit overwhelmed as my brain tries to arrange how to put everything back properly. My heart pounds with anxiety looking at the mess I’ve made on the floor, remembering my unmade sandwich on the counter and feeling guilty about the 45 minutes I’ve wasted since ‘beginning’ my mandatory task. I go get my phone and land on the couch to surf social media and decompress for a moment before I can continue.”
Welcome to life as an adult with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
The story above was shared on the condition of anonymity by an adult with ADHD, offering an example of a series of events prior to her diagnosis and treatment. But her story could apply to any of the approximately 200 million people worldwide who have ADHD. In a world that’s already too much for folks not impacted by ADHD, just consider for a moment how these individuals feel going about their daily lives.
Because October is ADHD Awareness Month, we felt it important to share common symptoms, the latest options for treatment and resources for help if you or someone you love has the disorder.
The Many Faces of ADHD
The 2025 theme for ADHD Awareness Month is “The Many Faces of ADHD” and speaks to the reality of the condition. Put simply: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how your brain functions. Typically symptoms surface during childhood and can continue into adulthood. In this essay, we’ll focus on adults.
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
For adults who were never diagnosed with ADHD as children, the Mayo Clinic lists these as the most prominent indicators of the disorder:
- Impulsiveness
- Disorganization and problems prioritizing
- Poor time management skills
- Problems focusing on a task
- Trouble multitasking
- Excessive activity or restlessness
- Poor planning
- Low frustration tolerance
- Frequent mood swings
- Problems following through and completing tasks
- Hot temper
- Trouble coping with stress
Getting Tested
If you see yourself in the symptoms listed, and believe you may have undiagnosed ADHD, the first step is to consult with a medical professional. Screenings can be done online in a telehealth appointment, but if possible it’s best to see a doctor in person for the most comprehensive assessment.
The testing process is usually made up of several different stages, which include:
One-on-One Interview. This is where you’ll be asked by the doctor about your medical history. Sharing as much as you can will help rule out any other ailments that could present similar symptoms.
Assessment Questionnaire. Next, you’ll likely be asked to complete a basic self-evaluation, which was created to detect ADHD in adults.
Psychological Evaluation. If the information gathered points to an ADHD diagnosis, further psychological evaluations may be conducted to check cognitive functioning. One such exam is the Wechsler Adult Intelligent Scale (WAIS), an IQ test that was designed to help define memory issues and other neurological concerns.
Secondary Source Interviews. The final step for some individuals may be the gathering of what’s known as “collateral information” — essentially interviews conducted with family, friends and colleagues of the patient to determine lifestyle behaviour patterns that can help confirm the presence of ADHD. Not every medical professional will utilize this method, but many do if they believe it’s necessary.
Diagnosed with ADHD: What now?
eOnce a diagnosis is confirmed, there are several ways to manage the disorder. Some of the most common treatments are:
Stimulant Medications
Methylphenidates, more commonly known as Ritalin or Medikinet, are medicines that increase the activity of the brain in the areas that control attention. They are only available by prescription and though your body may need a few weeks to acclimate, once your system adapts to the drug, it will likely work quite quickly after ingestion. Though it can cause headaches and sleep disruption, the side effects reported are generally minimal.
Non-Stimulant Medications
Clonidine, often referred to by the brand name of Kapavay, works by relaxing blood vessels and the heart rate in the central nervous system. Though the effects typically take longer to kick in than stimulant drugs, the benefits can help regulate impulse control, decrease restlessness and help balance emotions. Common side effects in the initial phase of consumption include dry mouth, headache, drowsiness and dizziness.
Atemoxitine, also known as Straterra, is another non-stimulant alternative, which is not a controlled substance. It increases norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps sharpen focus and reduce impulse control. Side effects can include upset stomach, sexual dysfunction and insomnia.
Lifestyle Modifications
For those who don’t respond well to medications, or need additional support in addition to their medicine regimen, a better diet may help. This includes eating less processed foods and focusing on higher volumes of healthy fats such as fish, nuts and seeds in addition to a good balance of vegetables and whole grains. Furthermore, incorporating more movement and exercise through walking, swimming or other pleasurable activities can be beneficial.
Mindfulness Therapy
Holistic practitioners have developed specific treatments for ADHD patients, such as Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). This program, usually a few months in duration, includes mindfulness meditations, body scans, cognitive tools for managing negative thoughts and the training of how to apply mindfulness to daily life scenarios.
Though there is not a one-size-fits-all solution for this ailment, the good news is that these treatments are readily available. We must emphasize, we are not medical doctors nor should any info shared here be considered medical advice. Please consult directly with your medical doctor to formulate a plan tailored to you or your loved one.
Get Support
Even if you have been properly diagnosed, and have received a treatment plan, navigating ADHD can be frightening. Please know that you are not alone. The following groups offer free support those who have the disorder and their families:
- CHADD (USA). This organisation has a directory of support groups for parents and adults, searchable on their website.
- CADDAC (Canada). Shares education and promotes advocacy for those diagnosed with ADHD.
- ADDA (USA). Offers a variety of resources, events and volunteer opportunities.
- ADHD UK (England). Provides a self-screener to see if symptoms show signs of the disorder and shares places to receive support if you’ve been diagnosed.
- ADHD Foundation (Australia). Offers a helpline and safe space to learn more about living with ADHD.
- I Am Able (USA). Our friend Aaron Wolf founded this organisation to build a movement where stigma is replaced by knowledge and create a supportive community for neurodiverse people.
- LDA Con (USA). An event to address learning disabilities and other issues that may impact those with ADHD. Aaron will also be the featured Keynote Speaker in St. Louis, Missouri, next February. For details on how to attend, visit the event website and scroll down the page to register (early bird rates are available through Halloween).
Unfortunately, despite the progress that’s been made, there are still many myths surrounding ADHD. Some claim that people who have it just can’t concentrate, or that it’s an excuse for laziness. Neither are true, which is why it’s all the more important—considering the minefield of misinformation on the Internet—to prevent those lies from spreading…
…and give a little grace to one another, regardless of diagnosis—especially when someone you love may be in a battle with their own mind & body…
“NYC #9, 2011 – 2014” © Julian Lennon, is available for purchase at Artsy.
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Great essay. Loved the symptoms check. Thank you for posting the great information for people that may need assistance. God Bless your kindness. 🙏❤️🕊
Thank you for posting this 😉 I’ve struggled a lifetime with this problem and info helps tremendously! Found out I was ADHD in my 40s after my oldest son was diagnosed. I had gone to a support group for parents with ADHD kids and the info struck such a cord in me. I thought to myself.. hmmm 🤔I wonder if I have it too? Took an online test and then followed up with an evaluation by a psychiatrist and yep.. me too 😩 🙃 🤪 . I tried 3 different meds but all had side effects I didn’t want to… Read more »