How ADHD symptoms change with age — Channel NewsAsia
In the United States, researchers and specialists note that symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can change throughout life: hyperactivity and impulsivity are more often noticeable in young children, while manifestations of inattention may become more pronounced and persistent with age. Channel NewsAsia reports this, citing research and expert comments.
ADHD can manifest in different ways and involve a broad range of symptoms, from mild to severe. The condition also often co-occurs with other mental, behavioral, or neurodevelopmental disorders, including anxiety and autism. Researchers still do not have a definitive answer as to what proportion of children with ADHD retain the diagnosis in adulthood.
Symptoms are not unchanging
A 2021 longitudinal study that followed participants with ADHD for 16 years found that about 10% achieved sustained remission by young adulthood, while another roughly 10% had ADHD throughout the entire period. For most participants, symptoms intensified or weakened over time. At any given point, about half of the participants met the diagnostic criteria, but the composition of this group changed.
Symptoms of inattention include difficulty paying attention to details, failing to complete tasks, disorganization, and forgetfulness. Hyperactive-impulsive manifestations may include constant fidgeting, difficulty waiting for one’s turn, and excessive talkativeness.
For a diagnosis, a child must have at least six symptoms from one of the two groups, while people aged 17 and older must have at least five. If there is a sufficient number of symptoms from both categories, this is referred to as the combined type of ADHD.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
From outward hyperactivity to inner restlessness
In preschool children, hyperactivity and impulsivity are usually more noticeable. However, as academic demands and responsibilities increase, symptoms of inattention may come to the forefront. A 2023 review found that among children under 12, the proportions of predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined types are approximately comparable. Between the ages of 12 and 18, the predominantly inattentive type is recorded more often, while fewer than one-quarter of adolescents have the hyperactive-impulsive type.
Among adults, the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type is rare: one small study estimated its share at 7%. At this age, hyperactivity may manifest as inner mental restlessness or a constant need to stay busy. Inattention, in turn, can complicate household planning, completing tasks without clear deadlines, and concentrating during conversations.
The impact of environment and support
Life circumstances can affect the severity of symptoms. In particular, family problems can intensify ADHD manifestations in children and adolescents, while a structured school environment can sometimes make concentration more difficult. In adulthood, symptoms may become less noticeable if a person finds work that suits their temperament and characteristics.
Specialists also note that people may learn to manage the condition better over time. Behavioral interventions are more often used when hyperactive-impulsive symptoms predominate, medication when inattention is present, and for many people, especially those with the combined type of ADHD, a combination of these approaches may be best. Neuroimaging studies also indicate that changes in symptoms may be partly linked to brain development.
