Although it’s often thought of as a childhood condition, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persists into adulthood. In fact, some people are only diagnosed with ADHD as adults. According to the Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA), ADHD is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders in Canada, affecting between 4% and 6% of adults and 5% to 7% of children, or around 1.8 million people in total. Yet despite this high prevalence, it is estimated that up to 80% of Canadian adults with ADHD have never been diagnosed or treated.
Learn more about the main symptoms and treatment options for adult ADHD, and discover strategies to improve your quality of life if you have the condition.
Attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain’s executive functions, i.e., the ability to organize, plan, concentrate, and control impulses.
Unlike a simple momentary distraction or lack of motivation, ADHD is linked to well-established neurobiological and genetic factors and therefore does not stem from a lack of motivation or willpower.
Often unrecognized or misunderstood, ADHD can have major repercussions on someone’s personal, social, and professional life, especially when it goes unrecognized or untreated.
Symptoms of ADHD can vary from person to person and evolve over time, which explains why the disorder can sometimes go undetected until adulthood.
The exact causes of ADHD are not entirely understood, but scientific research shows that it is a multifactorial disorder linked to neurobiological and genetic factors. Differences in the functioning of certain brain regions (notably those involved in attention and emotion regulation) are often observed. In addition, heredity plays an important role: When a parent has ADHD, the risk that their child will too is higher.
Contrary to some beliefs, ADHD is not caused by poor upbringing, too much sugar, or a lack of discipline.
Adult ADHD is goes beyond temporary inattention. Its symptoms affect multiple different aspects of daily life:
ADHD symptoms are often harder to spot in women. They tend to exhibit fewer physical symptoms, like hyperactivity, and experience more mental fatigue, rumination, and heightened anxiety. This is one of the reasons why ADHD is underdiagnosed in women: in the United States, women account for just 38% of adults diagnosed.
ADHD doesn’t always look the same from person to person. There are three main types of ADHD, each with its own particularities.
ADHD symptoms may evolve over time, so it’s possible to identify with different types at different points in your life.
The diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood relies on a comprehensive clinical evaluation by a health care professional, such as your family doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist. This is essential to distinguish ADHD from other disorders that may present similar symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, addiction, or certain sleep disorders.
ADHD assessment usually includes a detailed interview about the person’s medical, school, and work history, as well as validated questionnaires to measure inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. In some cases, neuropsychological tests may also be used to better understand the cognitive profile of the person being assessed.
Some online tests, such as the ASRS v1.1, can also help you spot certain signs. However, these tests can never replace a formal medical evaluation, which remains the only way to obtain a reliable diagnosis.
Some individuals exhibit both ADHD and giftedness, which can make diagnosis more difficult, as the two have overlapping characteristics (distraction, hypersensitivity, need for stimulation, etc.).
ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are two neurodevelopmental disorders that share certain traits, such as attention difficulties, impulsive behaviour, and sensory sensitivity. However, ADHD is mainly linked to a deficit in executive functions (organization, concentration, emotion regulation), while ASD is characterized more by restricted interests and difficulties in communication and social interaction.
Specialized assessment is essential to distinguish between these two disorders, which can sometimes coexist.
Some individuals exhibit both ADHD and giftedness, which can make diagnosis more difficult, as the two have overlapping characteristics (distraction, hypersensitivity, need for stimulation, etc.). Once again, a medical assessment is required to differentiate between them.
Managing ADHD in adulthood generally requires a multifaceted approach tailored to a person’s individual needs. The goal is to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and support daily functioning.
Combining several of these approaches often produces the best results. Regular visits with a doctor and mental health professional are recommended to adjust your treatments and find strategies that work for you.
Beyond testing, treatment, and medication, there are many practical strategies that can help you cope with the challenges of ADHD in your daily life.
To help a loved one with ADHD, listen and encourage them rather than criticizing. Offer concrete support such as gentle reminders or help organizing, and remember that ADHD has nothing to do with a lack of willpower.
Your pharmacist can help you live better with ADHD on a day-to-day basis by clearly explaining how your treatment works, the possible side effects, and the correct way to take your medication. Your pharmacy professional can also check for interactions with other treatments, answer your questions, and help you take your medication.
Not sure if you have ADHD? Your pharmacist can also refer you to the right people to get you assessed and start the diagnostic process. Rely on their expertise for regular follow-up tailored to your needs.
Last updated on July 10, 2025
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