What are the symptoms of ADHD in adults?

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By Dr Harry Woodward | NeuroDiverseKids.co.uk

If you’ve ever met a parent who says, “I think my child gets their distractibility from me,” you may well have met an adult with ADHD. (Spoiler: adults don’t magically grow out of ADHD when they turn 18!)

ADHD looks a little different in adulthood than in childhood, but the core themes stay the same: attention, organisation, emotions, and a brain that loves sprinting when everyone else is taking a nice stroll.

In this post, we’ll explore the common symptoms of ADHD in adults — in a friendly, clear, and clinically-informed way — so you can better understand the grown-ups in your family… including possibly yourself.

ADHD Doesn’t vanish at 18 (we checked)

ADHD is a lifespan neurodevelopmental condition. Many children continue to experience symptoms into adulthood, though the shape of those symptoms may change. 

The NHS notes that difficulties with attention, restlessness, and impulsivity can continue into adult life, often affecting relationships, work, and wellbeing.

Common symptoms of ADHD in adults

1. Difficulties with Attention & Focus

Adult ADHD is rarely about “not paying attention at all.” It’s more like having attention that behaves a bit like a toddler in a toy shop — overly enthusiastic, easily distracted, and sometimes hyper-fixated on exactly the wrong thing.

Common signs include:

• Struggling to stay focused in meetings (even the exciting ones, if such a meeting exists)

• Missing details, deadlines, or instructions

• Re-reading the same paragraph four times and still forgetting what it said

• Frequently starting new tasks… then realising last week’s half-finished tasks are still sitting there, judging you

2. Organisation & Executive Function Challenges

Executive function is the brain’s “project manager.” In adults with ADHD, it often turns up late, without a notebook, and holding the wrong coffee order.

Typical symptoms include:

• Difficulty prioritising tasks

• Forgetting appointments unless they’re surrounded by three alarms and a sticky note

• Losing things constantly (keys, wallet, sanity… the usual)

  
  

3. Emotional Regulation Difficulties

Adult ADHD can bring strong, fast-moving emotions. This isn’t about “being dramatic” but about differences in how the brain processes and regulates feelings.

You might see:

• Feeling overwhelmed more easily

• Low frustration tolerance

• Rejection sensitivity or taking things very personally

• “Why did I react like that?” moments

The CDC notes that emotional impulsivity and sensitivity can be a significant part of ADHD in adults.

​4. Hyperactivity… but not always the bouncy kind

Children might run, jump, or climb. Adults… fidget. Pace. Bite their nails. Tap their foot like they’re sending Morse code.

Common adult patterns:

• Feeling internally restless

• Unable to relax or switch off

• Constantly needing to "be doing something"

5. Impulsivity

Impulsivity in adults can look like:

• Interrupting conversations (enthusiastically!)

• Making quick decisions without considering consequences

• Difficulty waiting — in queues, in traffic, in life

  
  

6. Difficulties with Work, Routines & Daily Life

Many adults with ADHD say that their brain works beautifully… just not always in the way the world expects.

Symptoms may include:

• Struggling with long-term projects

• Procrastinating until the last possible second, then becoming a productivity superhero

• Feeling exhausted from the mental juggling act of everyday life

• Relationship challenges linked to communication or forgetfulness

  
  

NICE guidelines highlight how adult ADHD can impact multiple areas of functioning, including education, work, and interpersonal relationships (NICE ADHD Overview).

But wait — Isn’t everyone forgetful sometimes?

Absolutely. The difference with ADHD is frequency, severity, and impact.

If someone regularly struggles with attention, organisation, or impulsivity across different situations — and it’s affecting work, home life, or wellbeing — that’s when ADHD should be considered.

And of course, a proper assessment is the only way to know for sure. At NeuroDiverseKids.co.uk, we support families every day who are exploring ADHD in both children and adults (yes, parents often end up having their own “lightbulb moment” along the way).

Why understanding adult adhd helps families

Recognising ADHD in adults can transform family life. It can bring:

• More empathy between parents and children

• Understanding of shared neurodivergent traits

• Better communication and routines at home

• A more supportive environment for everyone

And importantly, it helps adults model self-awareness and self-compassion — two superpowers that every neurodivergent child deserves to see.

If you’re wondering about yourself…

You’re not alone. Many parents begin to recognise ADHD traits in adulthood when supporting their child through assessment.

A good next step is simply learning more, tracking challenges, and seeking a specialist opinion if needed. No stigma. No shame. Just information that helps you (and your family) thrive.

​Book an assessment or discuss treatment.