Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has to do with the regulation of a particular set of brain functions and related behaviors. While ADHD is one of the most common disorders diagnosed in children, there are many adults who are also navigating the diagnosis or have gone the majority of their life living with undiagnosed symptoms. According to epidemiological data, approximately 5% of adults have ADHD; that represents about 11,000,000 individuals in the US.

If you have ADHD, everything from paying bills on time to keeping up with work, family, and social demands can seem overwhelming and daunting. An ADHD diagnosis can be tough on your health, can create challenges within relationships, and can make you feel like you have no control over your everyday life. Symptoms may lead to extreme procrastination, trouble meeting important deadlines, an inability to manage time and stay organized, and impulsive behaviors. However, it is important to understand that there are skills and strategies that can be learned and implemented in order to help you control your symptoms of ADHD.

Due to the fact that ADHD is a complex disorder and each individual is unique, it can be difficult to know what works best for you as an adult. You do have access to various medications and types of therapy that can help with managing ADHD symptoms, and can be very beneficial. However, talking with your doctor about benefits, risks, dosing, and side effects will be an important first step.

There are also many lifestyle changes and home remedies that are in your control and can help make the symptoms you experience feel less extreme or intimidating. For example, you can make lists of tasks to accomplish each day, prioritizing each item. You can also be more proactive with breaking down normal daily tasks, using sticky notes, keeping an appointment book or planner, and taking your time organizing important documents and/or goals. It can be helpful to also examine your own daily routine and habits; a healthy diet, sleep hygiene, and consistent physical activity can help to manage and improve ADHD symptoms. There are also ADHD support groups, mindfulness and relaxation strategies, and alternative forms of medicine and/or coping that may help you manage your symptoms as an adult. Regardless of the route you choose for yourself, consistency is key! If you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, it will be important to know yourself (or potentially get to know yourself better), listen to your body, and be proactive in managing your symptoms so that you feel fulfilled and ready to confidently tackle each day. If you feel you may be living with undiagnosed ADHD symptoms, it may be helpful to chat with your doctor or psychiatrist, undergo a physical that can help you rule out other possible diagnoses, gather information and ask questions, and take the additional steps needed to gain a better understanding of yourself and the symptoms you experience. An ADHD diagnosis can be overwhelming, but there are many resources available to help you feel heard, supported, and validated!