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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 & 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; adults with ADHD

frequently give in to regular procrastination and lethargy actively demonstrating the lack of

guidance 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 without 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 adult 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

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

interventions can aid in developing patterns that help 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 simultaneously occur. 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.

The Adult ADHD Quality of Life (AAQoL) scale is a tool utilized to evaluate the impact of ADHD

on an individual's quality of life. 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). An additional study conducted by Matheson et al. involved

a qualitative analysis of 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. The focus of this essay encompasses several key areas related to adult ADHD,
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including the prevalence of the condition, the ongoing debate surrounding adult-onset ADHD, the

educational needs of adults with ADHD, the co-occurrence of ADHD and substance use disorder,

and the impact of adult ADHD on overall quality of life. Recognizing the substantial effect that

ADHD can have on an individual's daily functioning and quality of life, it is crucial for healthcare

professionals to address these challenges and provide appropriate support to individuals with

ADHD. In order to advance our understanding of ADHD in adults and develop effective

interventions for both ADHD and associated comorbidities, such as substance use disorder, further

research is necessary. 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

Marios Adamou 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.

Rahim Badrfam 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.

Lauren Matheson 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.

Louis S. Matza 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.

Michael O. Ogundele. "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

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

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

635–53.

John S. Wadsworth & Dennis C. Harper. "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.