From the Guidelines
Young adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) typically exhibit symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity 1.
Common Symptoms
- Difficulty sustaining focus and attention on tasks
- Disorganization and poor time management
- Forgetfulness and difficulty keeping track of personal belongings
- Frequent interrupting and impulsivity
- Restlessness and feeling of inner agitation
- Difficulty with completing tasks and following instructions These symptoms can be categorized into inattentive symptoms and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, with adults being more likely to present with inattentive symptoms 1.
Diagnostic Criteria
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, outlines the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, which includes an ongoing pattern of inattentive and/or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, onset before the age of 12, and presence in two or more settings 1.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis, which may involve a series of questions, behavioral assessments, and possibly neuropsychological tests to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions 1.
Treatment
A personalized treatment plan may include medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes, with medications like Ritalin (methylphenidate) or Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) being potentially prescribed 1.
From the Research
Clinical Manifestations of ADHD in Young Adults
The clinical manifestations of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in young adults can be understood through various studies that have examined the progression of the disorder from childhood to adulthood.
- The symptoms of ADHD can persist into adulthood, although they may change over time 2, 3.
- In young adults, the clinical picture of ADHD is characterized by inattention and impulsivity, while physical activity usually decreases significantly 2.
- The diagnosis of ADHD in adults requires a retrospective diagnosis of ADHD in childhood, and comorbid disorders such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder, emotional disorders, and substance abuse are common 2, 4.
- The clinical criteria for ADHD are formally listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition, and management involves pharmacologic agents and nonpharmacologic interventions 3.
Common Symptoms and Comorbidities
Some common symptoms and comorbidities associated with ADHD in young adults include:
- Inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity 2, 3, 5.
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder, which can be related to the presentation of Antisocial Personality Disorder in adults 2.
- Emotional disorders, which can be due to common biological mechanisms or the long-standing effect of psychosocial and environmental factors 2.
- Substance abuse, with ADHD being a predictor for smoking and alcoholism 2, 6.
Diagnosis and Management
The diagnosis and management of ADHD in young adults involve:
- A comprehensive clinical interview, rating scales for past and present symptoms, and collateral information from multiple informants 4.
- Assessment of a broader spectrum of psychiatric and somatic conditions, as well as neuropsychological functions 4.
- Pharmacologic agents, such as stimulant and/or nonstimulant medications, and nonpharmacologic interventions 3, 5.