Understanding ADHD in Children and Adults: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

May 11, 2025

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. ADHD can make it difficult for someone to focus, sit still, manage time, or complete tasks. These challenges can affect schoolwork, jobs, relationships, and self-esteem.

At HealthCore Clinic in Wichita, Kansas, the caring team offers help and resources for families living with ADHD. This article provides helpful information about ADHD in both children and adults, including symptoms, causes, the ADHD diagnosis process, treatment options, and tips for living with ADHD.

What Is ADHD?

ADHD is a brain development disorder that often starts in early childhood. It was once called Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), but today, ADHD is the correct medical name. It involves difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, or impulsive behavior. These symptoms are not due to laziness or lack of effort. ADHD is caused by differences in how the brain works.

Doctors and researchers believe that ADHD is linked to several factors, including genetics, brain development, and the environment during pregnancy or early childhood. Children born early or with low birth weight may have a higher risk. Exposure to lead, smoking, or alcohol during pregnancy may also increase the chances of developing ADHD.

ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children, but it can also continue into adulthood. Symptoms can vary greatly from one person to another and often change with age.

Signs and Symptoms of ADHD

ADHD looks different in every person. Children with ADHD may have trouble sitting still in class, following instructions from teachers, or staying focused on schoolwork. Adults with ADHD might struggle with finishing tasks at work, managing their schedules, or remembering daily responsibilities.

People with ADHD usually show signs of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. Some may have more trouble paying attention, while others may show more physical restlessness. Often, people have symptoms from more than one area.

It’s important to know that these behaviors must happen in more than one setting—like at school and at home—and must be noticeable for at least six months before ADHD is considered.

ADHD in Children

About 11% of children in the United States between ages 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD. Boys have been diagnosed more often than girls, though girls may be underdiagnosed because their symptoms can appear more quietly, such as daydreaming or disorganization rather than hyperactivity.

ADHD can affect a child’s learning, behavior, and emotions. Kids with ADHD may:

• Struggle to stay focused on reading, writing, or math
• Talk when they are supposed to be listening
• Forget to turn in homework or lose books and supplies
• Act without thinking and interrupt others

These behaviors are not caused by bad parenting or poor teaching. Instead, they are part of how ADHD affects the brain and behavior.

Some children with ADHD also have other challenges, such as learning disabilities, sleep disorders, or emotional difficulties. These issues can add to the frustration of both kids and parents. This is why early help and a clear plan are important.

ADHD in Adults

ADHD does not go away as someone grows older. In fact, around 16 million adults in the United States have ADHD. Some adults were never diagnosed as children and may not realize their struggles with attention or organization are related to ADHD.

Adults with ADHD may have difficulty meeting deadlines, remembering appointments, or focusing during meetings. They may also feel overwhelmed or frustrated by simple tasks, such as paying bills or completing forms. These struggles can lead to stress, anxiety, or even job loss.

ADHD in adults can also affect relationships. People may talk over others, forget important details, or appear distracted during conversations. This can cause confusion or conflict with family members, coworkers, or friends.

Like children, adults with ADHD benefit from structure, support, and tools that help with planning and time management.

Getting an ADHD Diagnosis

There is no single test to diagnose ADHD. Instead, doctors collect information from several sources. A pediatrician, psychologist, or child psychiatrist will ask about the person’s behavior, development, and emotions. They may use forms, checklists, and interviews with parents, teachers, or others who know the person well.

To be diagnosed, the symptoms must be present for at least six months and must interfere with the person’s ability to function at school, home, or work. The symptoms must also appear in more than one setting.

For adults, the process is similar. The doctor may ask about how symptoms affect everyday tasks, job performance, or relationships. They may also check for other issues like depression, anxiety, or alcohol use, which can sometimes happen along with ADHD.

An accurate diagnosis is the first step in building a support plan that meets the person’s needs.

Treatment for ADHD

Treating ADHD is about more than just medicine. The best care involves a combination of approaches. Behavior therapy, education, and in some cases, medication, can make a big difference in how someone feels and functions.

Behavior therapy is especially helpful for young children. It teaches them how to improve focus, follow directions, and manage their behavior. Parents also learn skills for setting routines, using positive reinforcement, and reducing problem behaviors.

For school-aged children and teens, medicine can be helpful. Stimulant medications like methylphenidate or amphetamine-based drugs are often used. These medications help increase attention and reduce hyperactivity. There are also non-stimulant options that may work better for some people.

Adults may also benefit from medication, along with therapy, coaching, or time management tools. Counseling can help adults learn how to plan ahead, organize their time, and reduce stress. They may also learn to build routines, manage emotions, and improve self-esteem.

Tips for Success at Home, Work, and School

Here are three simple and effective strategies to help children and adults with ADHD:

1. Set up a routine: Daily schedules give structure. Use charts or timers to stay on task and reduce distractions.
2. Break things into small steps: Large tasks can feel overwhelming. Divide them into smaller pieces and celebrate progress along the way.
3. Create a calm environment: A quiet workspace helps focus. Use soft lighting and limit clutter and noise.

Where to Learn More

Learning about ADHD is one of the best ways to provide support. The National Resource Center on ADHD, a program of CHADD, offers helpful content in both English and Spanish. They provide free tools, webinars, tip sheets, and more.

Families can also find ADHD support through books, local groups, videos, and podcasts. Social platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn often feature ADHD-related discussions and expert interviews. Government sites like the CDC and NIH also offer science-based articles and guides on ADHD causes, diagnosis, and treatment.

Understanding ADHD helps people feel more confident in managing it. No one should feel alone—there are many helpful resources, tools, and professionals ready to assist.

When to Seek Help

If you or your child shows signs of ADHD and these symptoms are causing problems with schoolwork, daily routines, or emotions, it’s time to talk with a healthcare provider. Early support can reduce frustration and help prevent long-term difficulties.

The team at HealthCore Clinic in Wichita, Kansas, provides compassionate care for children, teens, and adults.

Moving Forward with Support

ADHD affects millions of children and adults in the United States, including many families in Wichita. It may cause challenges with focus, behavior, and emotional regulation. But with understanding, structure, and the right care, people with ADHD can do well in school, succeed at work, and enjoy strong relationships.

If you have questions about ADHD or want to schedule an appointment, HealthCore Clinic is here to help. With a trusted team and a commitment to whole-person care, we’re proud to serve the Wichita community and beyond.