Adult ADHD affects millions of adults. Though originally seen as a condition specific to children, it is now clear that adult ADHD is common and can present with different symptoms than typically seen in children. Although the symptoms appear different, adult ADHD can cause many problems for those suffering from it and can affect all aspects of one's life, including daily functioning, work, and relationships.
Daily Functioning
Adults suffering from ADHD often struggle to maintain normal daily functioning. Distractibility is a common symptom of adult ADHD, and compensation for distractions can take up hours each day as a person looks for lost papers, bills, and keys, and tries to remember what task he was trying to complete. Racing thoughts make even the simplest activities, such as housework, difficult. In more severe cases, impulsivity can lead to car accidents, legal trouble, debt, and addiction tendencies.
Work
It is very difficult for ADHD adults to stay on task, organize and finish projects, and be on time for appointments and deadlines. It may be hard for those with this condition to sit still when needed, such as for long meetings, to wait their turn to speak, and to stay motivated. This set of behaviors often leads to many problems, including; underachievement at work and in one's career field, frequent job changes, job loss, and trouble following rules within the workplace.
Relationships
The impulsivity and overall restlessness associated with adult ADHD causes many problems within romantic and family relationships. Relationship tension can arise from a partner not understanding that forgetting to do things, losing things, and being distracted are ADHD symptoms that the person struggles with daily. These symptoms are not a result of being lazy or unmotivated, but this does not change the negative effect it can have on relationships. Additionally, being bored easily and risk taking behaviors, both common ADHD symptoms, may lead to extra-marital-affairs and other destructive behaviors that can damage relationships.
