ADHD In Children Vs. Adults: The Challenge Of Misdiagnosis And Underdiagnosis

Written by- Neha Shetty

Image Courtesy: Freekpik

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting children and adults. While ADHD is commonly associated with hyperactivity, it involves much more than just being overly active. It significantly impacts one’s ability to focus, organise tasks, and regulate impulses, causing challenges in daily life.

Unfortunately, ADHD is often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed, leading to missed opportunities for support and treatment. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between ADHD in children and adults and shed light on the challenges of accurate diagnosis.

Understanding ADHD in Children

ADHD primarily manifests during childhood, with symptoms typically appearing before age 12. Children with ADHD often struggle to pay attention, follow instructions, and complete tasks. They may exhibit hyperactive behaviours such as constant fidgeting, excessive talking, and difficulty staying seated. Additionally, impulsivity is a hallmark of ADHD in children, leading to impulsive decisions, interrupting others, and acting without considering consequences.

It is important to note that ADHD symptoms can vary among children. While some may display predominantly inattentive symptoms, others exhibit predominantly hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Many children demonstrate a combination of both, referred to as the combined presentation.

Challenges of Diagnosing ADHD in Children

Diagnosing ADHD in children can be challenging due to various factors. First, the symptoms of ADHD can overlap with normal childhood behaviour, making it difficult to differentiate between typical developmental patterns and actual ADHD. Furthermore, symptoms may vary depending on the child’s age, developmental stage, and external factors such as stress or environmental changes. Another obstacle to accurate diagnosis is parents, educators, and healthcare professionals’ lack of awareness and knowledge.

ADHD may be mistaken for laziness, disobedience, or a lack of intelligence, leading to disciplinary actions instead of appropriate support and intervention. Consequently, many children with undiagnosed or misdiagnosed ADHD struggle academically, socially, and emotionally.

ADHD in Adults: Recognizing the Signs

ADHD is not limited to childhood, as it often persists into adulthood. However, the symptoms of ADHD in adults may differ from those seen in children. While hyperactivity decreases with age, inattentiveness and impulsivity remain or even become more prominent.

Adults with ADHD may struggle to focus, complete tasks, and manage time effectively. They may experience difficulties with organisation, forgetfulness, and a tendency to procrastinate. Additionally, impulsivity can lead to impulsive spending, frequent job changes, relationship difficulties, and problems with substance abuse or addictive behaviours.

Misdiagnosis and Underdiagnosis in Adults

ADHD in adults is frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked due to several factors. Firstly, the symptoms of ADHD can be attributed to other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. This overlap often leads to a misdiagnosis or a focus on treating the secondary condition without addressing the underlying ADHD.

Furthermore, adults with ADHD may have developed coping mechanisms and strategies to compensate for their symptoms, making their challenges less apparent. They may have learned to mask their difficulties and appear more organised and focused on the surface. Consequently, healthcare providers may overlook or dismiss the possibility of ADHD, assuming that the individual is functioning well.

Overcoming the Challenges: Seeking Proper Diagnosis and Support

Accurate diagnosis and appropriate support are crucial for individuals with ADHD in childhood and adulthood. If you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD, consider the following steps:

1. Consult with a healthcare professional: Reach out to a qualified healthcare provider experienced in diagnosing and treating ADHD. They will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, considering medical history, symptoms, and possible contributing factors.
2. Involve relevant parties: Involve teachers and school staff to gather additional information and observations for children. In the case of adults, it may be helpful to involve close family members or partners who can provide insight into your behaviours and struggles.
3. Educate yourself: Learn about ADHD and its manifestations to better understand your or your child’s experiences. Recognise that ADHD is a real and manageable condition; obtaining accurate information will help you make informed decisions.
4. Explore treatment options: Treatment for ADHD may include medication, behavioural therapy, and the development of coping strategies. A comprehensive approach that combines various interventions often yields the best results.

Conclusion

ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals of all ages. Recognising the differences between ADHD in children and adults is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate support. Misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis can lead to significant challenges in academics, work, relationships, and overall well-being. By increasing awareness, improving education, and seeking proper evaluation, we can ensure that individuals with ADHD receive the support they need to thrive and reach their full potential.

If you or someone you know is in need of mental health support, we at Arpita Foundation provide telephonic and online counselling services.

Contact us on +918105247529, +918792677346, +91 80 23655557 and +91 80 23656667 or email us on arpita.helpline@gmail.com