Written by: Abbey Moore Second-year Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour
Edited by: Korrenne Jensen, RP, M.A.C.P.
***Author note: The writer is an Indigenous person and is part of the Six Nations & Upper Cayuga Tribe***
Living with ADHD attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be both challenging and a uniquely enriching experience, impacting individuals across their lifespan. ADHD is described as persistent inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity that can lead to psychological and social challenges (Asherson, 2012).
Historically, ADHD was a condition diagnosed in children who had issues with their behaviour and performance in school (Lange et al., 2010). Today researchers are learning more about the diverse impact of ADHD on people of all ages. As it is becoming more common to be diagnosed with ADHD later in life, it is important to recognize the developmental impacts and treatment plans across the lifespan.
The symptoms of ADHD are similar at all ages, but as individuals mature, the way symptoms present may differ. External symptoms such as hyperactive-impulsive behaviours decline with age, while inattention and emotional liability may become more apparent (Frank et al., 2018). Adults with ADHD were found to have high rates of general mental health symptoms compared to those without ADHD. This increased prevalence of mental health issues can be attributed to the chronic nature of ADHD (Frank et al 2018).
The developmental impacts of ADHD intensify with each stage of life as responsibilities increase. In early childhood, ADHD presents as a behavioural disturbance. When children go to school this can lead to academic impairment and poor social interactions (Asherson, 2012). In adolescence, struggling to perform academically and engage with peers can lead to low self-esteem and antisocial behaviours. This can put teens at risk of other mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, as well as the tendency to abuse substances (Asherson, 2012). Into adulthood, mental instability can lead to difficulties with daily tasks, employment, relationships, and more (Redshaw & McCormack,2022). Understanding these developmental impacts is crucial for providing appropriate support throughout an individual’s life.
ADHD can be challenging to live with. Along with the developmental impact, challenges with mental health comorbidities, and social difficulties, people with ADHD face personal challenges. The subjective interpretations and experiences of those with ADHD play a large factor in coping skills. What one may perceive as a challenge, others see as advantageous (Redshaw & McCormack, 2022). For example, some describe their inattention and curiosity as a way to live in the moment. Positive energy and living in the moment can lead to novel problem-solving and creativity (Redshaw & McCormack, 2022).
Having curiosity and exceptional energy reserves leads to a “greater sense of wonder about the world” (Redshaw & McCormack, 2022, p.24). Having an adventurous mindset mixed with hyperactivity can mean being a hard worker. These skills can be used in fast-paced careers where ADHD may be appreciated such as a teacher or an artist (Samosh et al., 2024). As individuals with ADHD grow older, they often find ways to harness their unique abilities. Although childhood is difficult and can harm self-esteem, these challenges often lessen with maturation and positive experiences such as a family, job, and accepting partner (Michielsen et al., 2018). Effective treatment at a young age, aiming at how to live well with ADHD can improve insight into limitations and may decrease developmental impacts. Addressing ADHD from a developmental perspective can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected, underscoring the value of early intervention and lifelong support.
References
Asherson, P. (2012). ADHD across the lifespan. Medicine, 40(11), 623-627.
Franke, B., Michelini, G., Asherson, P., Banaschewski, T., Bilbow, A., Buitelaar, J. K., ... & Reif,
A. (2018). Live fast, die young? A review on the developmental trajectories of ADHD across the lifespan. European Neuropsychopharmacology, 28(10), 1059-1088.
Lange, K. W., Reichl, S., Lange, K. M., Tucha, L., & Tucha, O. (2010). The history of attention
deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders, 2, 241-255.
Michielsen, M., de Kruif, J. Th. C. M., Comijs, H. C., van Mierlo, S., Semeijn, E. J., Beekman,
A. T. F., Deeg, D. J. H., & Kooij, J. J. S. (2018). The burden of ADHD in older adults: A qualitative study. Journal of Attention Disorders, 22(6), 591–600. https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054715610001
Redshaw, R., & McCormack, L. (2022). “Being ADHD”: A qualitative study. Advances in
Neurodevelopmental Disorders, 6(1), 20–28. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41252-021-00227-5
Samosh, D., Lilius, J., & Atwood, K. (2024). ADHD and career success: Barriers, facilitators,
and future research directions. In Neurodiversity and Work: Employment, Identity, and Support Networks for Neurominorities (pp. 257-281). Cham: Springer Nature Switzerland