What is ADHD?

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. Millions of adults live with ADHD, and its symptoms can impact many areas of daily life, including work, school, relationships, organization, and emotional well-being.

For many adults, ADHD may be associated with challenges such as inconsistent work performance, difficulty managing responsibilities, relationship struggles, and ongoing feelings of frustration, guilt, or overwhelm. 

A key component of ADHD involves difficulties with executive functioning and working memory. Executive functions are the brain’s self-management skills that help individuals plan, prioritize, organize, regulate emotions, manage time, stay focused, and follow through on tasks. These skills are essential for success in school, work, and everyday life. When executive functioning is impaired, individuals may struggle to complete tasks, stay organized, remember important information, or effectively manage responsibilities over time.

Common symptoms of ADHD may include:


ADHD can also affect many practical aspects of daily living, including:

While ADHD can present significant challenges, individuals with ADHD also possess many strengths, including creativity, energy, resilience, and innovative thinking. With the right support, strategies, and tools, individuals with ADHD can build skills, increase confidence, and thrive in their personal and professional lives.

For additional information about adult ADHD, visit CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder).