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Carlos Vivanco

Mr. Powers

ENGL 1302

5 March 2023

Complexities of Adult ADHD

Introduction:

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that

affects about 5% of adults worldwide (Ogundele 210). It is distinguished by inattention,

hyperactivity, and impulsivity symptoms, all of which can significantly affect daily functioning

and quality of life (Wadsworth and Harper 101). Although commonly diagnosed in childhood,

ADHD can also present in adulthood, with an estimated prevalence of 2.5-4% in adults (Tavlor et

al. 635). Many adults struggle with life because they go without a diagnosis. Those who do not

know they have ADHD as children learn to cope on their own, despite the fact that some

prescription medications can significantly mitigate the disorder's effects. They frequently give in

to regular procrastination and lethargy because they lack the knowledge to condition themselves

and function with the disorder.

The Controversy Surrounding Adult-Onset ADHD:

While the prevailing view has been that ADHD is a developmental disorder that arises in

childhood, some researchers have suggested that adult-onset ADHD may be a different condition

with different underlying causes (Taylor et al. 635). For example, Taylor et al. propose that adult-

onset ADHD may be related to changes in brain function later in life, such as hormonal fluctuations

or the onset of medical conditions that affect cognitive functioning (635). However, this

perspective is not without controversy, and some experts argue that adult-onset ADHD is simply
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a manifestation of ADHD that went undiagnosed in childhood (Samal et al. 214-220).

Furthermore, because adult ADHD is a controversial topic, there is not much scientific proof to

support the argument, which would help people with the disorder be better understood. Then,

strategies and treatments would be more accessible to researchers.

Psychoeducational Needs of Adults With ADHD:

An important thing to consider regarding adults with ADHD is their support and

educational needs. A study by Seery et al. utilized a Delphi consensus methodology to determine

the most pressing questions that experts believe should be addressed in psychoeducational

interventions for ADHD (2593). According to the study, participants were eager to find out more

about the qualities and effects of ADHD, practical symptom-management techniques, and relevant

support resources (Seery et al., 2593). Adamou et al. stressed the significance of a

multidisciplinary approach to ADHD therapy, embracing psychoeducation as a crucial component

(5). Adults who are struggling with the disorder may benefit from psychoeducational therapies

since many people can develop insight into their condition. Furthermore, psychoeducational

interventions can aid in developing patterns that aid in improving organization, time management,

and social skills.

ADHD and Substance Use Disorder:

There is a significant overlap between drug use disorder (DUD) and adults with ADHD, as

these conditions tend to occur simultaneously. According to a study by Badrfam et al., bipolar

patients in Iran had a greater frequency of ADHD and SUD than the general population (1). Similar

findings were made by Samal et al., who discovered that SUD sufferers in Northeast India had a

significant prevalence of adult ADHD (215). Taylor et al. propose that this comorbidity may be

due to shared genetic and environmental risk factors or due to ADHD symptoms leading to
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increased substance use as a form of self-medication (637). Moreover, further research on the

relationship between ADHD and SUD is critical to understand the nature of the disorder in adults

and to develop effective interventions to treat both ADHD and SUD simultaneously. Additionally,

the effects of ADHD can contribute to adults becoming dependent on substances due to

succumbing to lethargy and laziness.

Impact of Adult ADHD in Quality of Life:

The effect of adult ADHD on a person's quality of life is a less understood factor by society.

A tool used to assess how ADHD affects a person's quality of life is the Adult ADHD Quality of

Life (AAQoL) scale. Matza et al. found that the AAQoL scale was sensitive to changes in symptom

severity, suggesting that it is a helpful tool for assessing the effectiveness of interventions for adult

ADHD (1512). Additionally, Matheson et al. conducted a qualitative study on the experiences of

individuals with ADHD in England (8). The researchers found that ADHD significantly impacted

their personal and professional lives, including difficulties with time management, organization,

and interpersonal relationships. These findings emphasize the necessity of considering the impact

of ADHD on people's quality of life when developing therapies. Furthermore, adults who work are

expected to perform and complete tasks at a specific pace and within a time limit; their quality of

life may appear rushed or in a constant hurry to get things done since they work differently under

pressure. Many adults understand they are unable to learn the same way others would; therefore,

working a nine-to-five job may seem intimidating.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this research analysis has highlighted several important aspects related to

ADHD in adults. This essay has covered the prevalence of adult ADHD, the controversy

surrounding adult-onset ADHD, the psychoeducational requirements of adults with ADHD, the
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comorbidity of adult ADHD and substance use disorder, and the effect of adult ADHD on quality

of life. It is apparent that ADHD can have a significant impact on an individual's daily functioning

and quality of life, making it important for healthcare professionals to recognize and address these

challenges. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying causes of ADHD in

adults and develop effective interventions to treat both ADHD and comorbid disorders such as

substance use disorder. By recognizing and addressing these challenges, we can promote the

mental health and well-being of individuals with ADHD and improve their quality of life.
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Works Cited:

Adamou, Marios, et al. "Advancing services for adult ADHD: the development of the ADHD Star

as a framework for multidisciplinary interventions." BMC Health Services Research, vol.

16, 2016.

Badrfam, Rahim, et al. “Comorbidity of Adult ADHD and Substance Use Disorder in a Sample of

Inpatients Bipolar Disorder in Iran.” BMC Psychiatry, vol. 22, no. 1, July 2022, pp. 1–13.

Matheson, Lauren et al. "Adult ADHD patient experiences of impairment, service provision and

clinical management in England: a qualitative study." BMC Health Services Research, vol.

13, 2013, p. 184.

Matza, Louis S., et al. "Responsiveness of the Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Quality of Life Scale (AAQoL)." Quality of Life Research, vol. 16, no. 9, 2007, pp. 1511-

1520.

Ogundele, Michael O. "Transitional care to adult ADHD services in a North West England

district." Clinical Governance, vol. 18, no. 3, 2013, pp. 210-219.

Oscarsson, Martin, et al. “Stress and Work-Related Mental Illness among Working Adults with

ADHD: A Qualitative Study.” BMC Psychiatry, vol. 22, no. 1, Nov. 2022, pp. 1–11.

Samal, Biswajeet et al. "Prevalence of adult ADHD in patients with substance use disorder in

North East India." Industrial Psychiatry Journal, vol. 31, no. 2, July 2022, pp. 214-220.

Seery, Christina, et al. “What Adults with ADHD Want to Know: A Delphi Consensus Study on

the Psychoeducational Needs of Experts by Experience.” Health Expectations, vol. 25, no.

5, Oct. 2022, pp. 2593–2602

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Works Cited:

Taylor, Lea E., et al. “Adult-Onset ADHD: A Critical Analysis and Alternative

Explanations.” Child Psychiatry & Human Development, vol. 53, no. 4, Aug. 2022, pp.

635–53.

Wadsworth, John S. & Harper, Dennis C. "Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder:

Assessment and Treatment Strategies." Journal of Counseling and Development: JCD, vol.

85, no. 1, Winter 2007, pp. 101-109.