Recognizing Mental And Physical Health Symptoms of Untreated ADHD in Adults

Awareness of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has grown significantly in recent years. It’s become such a commonplace topic on social media, for example, that it’s sometimes viewed as a harmless quirk rather than a diagnosable condition that can significantly impact a person’s life, daily functioning, and overall well-being. Also, ADHD isn’t just a childhood disorder, and the symptoms of adult ADHD can be different from those of childhood ADHD. Here, we’ll define adult ADHD and discuss how to pinpoint the symptoms of untreated ADHD so you can seek help if you notice them in yourself. We’ll also cover the importance of receiving an appropriate diagnosis and discuss options to treat ADHD.

What is adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder?

ADHD can be defined as a “developmental condition associated with an ongoing pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity.” ADHD typically first manifests during childhood and, in most cases, continues into adulthood. A person can have one of three key presentations of ADHD:

Presentations of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

• Primarily inattentive
• Primarily hyperactive
• A combination of the two

Causes of ADHD

The exact causes of ADHD are unknown, but it likely develops due to a combination of genetics and environmental factors. ADHD is commonly diagnosed in children, perhaps because it can cause more easily observable behavioral issues and because children are commonly around people who are familiar with the signs, such as teachers. However, if a person is not diagnosed during that phase of life, ADHD may go unnoticed for years, as the individual may get used to the symptoms and not realize that treatments are available.

The signs and symptoms of adult ADHD

ADHD can manifest somewhat differently depending on the presentation, the individual, and the socialized gender of the person.

Common signs of untreated ADHD in adults

• Frequently making “careless mistakes”
• Trouble listening closely when spoken to directly
• Difficulty following directions
• Trouble organizing, managing, and prioritizing tasks
• Poor time management skills
• Difficulty keeping track of belongings, time, important dates, etc.
• Being easily distracted
• Forgetfulness
• Restlessness
• Fidgeting
• Excessive talking
• Poor impulse control
• Inability to sustain attention for lengthier tasks or activities

Remember, these symptoms represent persistent and recurring behaviors, not isolated incidents that might impact anyone. 

Reflecting on school years

It can also be beneficial for those wondering if they are experiencing ADHD symptoms to reflect back upon their school years. Did you have trouble paying attention to the teacher? Did you struggle to follow directions in class? Were you easily distracted and found it more fun to talk to a peer rather than focus on a lesson? If so, you might be additionally motivated to seek support for the ADHD symptoms you may be experiencing today.

The potential consequences of untreated ADHD in adults

Getting treatment for ADHD can be important for daily functioning and overall mental health. Some of the adverse potential effects of untreated ADHD are listed below.

Adverse potential effects of untreated adult ADHD

• Trouble focusing on work or school
• Difficulty completing tasks and projects in a timely manner
• Being prone to procrastination
• Trouble remembering important details or dates
• Disorganization
• Difficulty with routines
• Relationship struggles
• Lack of productivity; stagnant career growth
• Substance misuse

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

Potentially risky behaviors

ADHD is also associated with increased risky behaviors due to the lack of impulse control that it can cause. As a result, those with ADHD—particularly when untreated—may be more prone to behaviors like substance use and misuse, binge eating, and risky sexual behaviors. Research suggests that, if left untreated, these symptoms along with other factors can even lead to a decreased lifespan for those living with ADHD. 

Treatments can improve mental health for people with adult ADHD

Receiving an official, clinical ADHD diagnosis can be crucial to getting support for untreated adult ADHD. While you might suspect you have ADHD based on certain symptoms, getting diagnosed by a doctor or mental health professional can allow you to pursue the right ADHD treatment for you, such as behavioral therapy, group therapy, ADHD medications, or ADHD coaching. 

Experiencing ADHD symptoms?

Connect with a licensed therapist

Online options for mental health treatment

If you’re looking to take the first step, meeting with your doctor, a psychiatrist, or a therapist can be a helpful place to start. They can evaluate your symptoms and suggest treatment that might be helpful. That said, the prospect of arranging this appointment can seem daunting, so some people find it helpful to go through an online therapy service. With BetterHelp, for example, you can get matched with a licensed therapist who you can meet with remotely from the comfort of home. They can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms for symptoms and support you in addressing symptoms of anxiety disorders or mood disorders too, which are commonly comorbid with ADHD.

What the research says about online therapy

Research suggests that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy in many cases. For example, consider a 2022 study that indicates that online interventions may help improve social functioning and attention deficit in adults with ADHD. Whichever support method or avenue you may choose, seeking help for symptoms of ADHD or any other mental health condition is typically recommended, as it may empower you to improve your daily functioning, mental health, and overall well-being.