ADHD in Children vs. Adults: Key Differences
When most people think of ADHD, they picture a restless child bouncing around the classroom. While this image reflects one version of ADHD, it’s far from the full picture. ADHD is a lifelong condition, and while symptoms often begin in childhood, they can persist well into adulthood.
Interestingly, ADHD doesn’t always look the same at different life stages. Children may struggle with hyperactivity or attention in school, while adults may find time management, organisation, and emotional regulation their biggest challenges.
This article explores the key differences between ADHD in children and adults, why these differences matter, and what to watch for in both age groups.
ADHD in Children
ADHD usually becomes noticeable in early school years, when demands for focus and self-control increase. Teachers and parents often spot symptoms first.
Common Symptoms in Children
Inattention: Forgetting homework, losing belongings, struggling to follow instructions.
Hyperactivity: Running, climbing, or fidgeting excessively; difficulty sitting still.
Impulsivity: Interrupting conversations, blurting out answers, difficulty waiting their turn.
How It Shows Up at School
Trouble staying focused on tasks unless they’re very engaging.
Disruptive behaviour or frequent daydreaming.
Struggles with handwriting, organisation, or completing assignments.
How It Shows Up at Home
Constant movement, jumping between activities.
Resistance to routines (bedtime, mealtimes).
Emotional outbursts when frustrated.
ADHD in Adults
While many children with ADHD continue to experience symptoms as they grow older, the presentation often changes. Hyperactivity may fade into inner restlessness, while other challenges become more prominent.
Common Symptoms in Adults
Inattention: Chronic forgetfulness, misplacing keys, losing track of tasks.
Disorganisation: Difficulty managing household chores, bills, or work projects.
Time Management Issues: Procrastination, missing deadlines, poor planning.
Emotional Regulation: Feeling easily frustrated, impatient, or overwhelmed.
Impulsivity: Risky spending, interrupting others, or difficulty controlling reactions.
How It Shows Up at Work
Struggling with deadlines and paperwork.
Finding long meetings draining.
Needing stimulation or novelty to stay engaged.
How It Shows Up in Relationships
Forgetting important dates or responsibilities.
Being seen as unreliable or distracted.
Emotional highs and lows that can affect partners or family members.
Key Differences Between ADHD in Children and Adults
1. Hyperactivity vs Restlessness
Children: Often visibly hyperactive — running, climbing, talking excessively.
Adults: Less physical hyperactivity, but may feel inner restlessness or an inability to relax.
2. Academic vs Occupational Challenges
Children: School performance may be inconsistent, with difficulties in completing homework or following rules.
Adults: Problems shift to work life — disorganisation, procrastination, and missed deadlines.
3. Emotional Expression
Children: Tantrums or emotional outbursts when frustrated.
Adults: More subtle — irritability, frustration, or difficulty managing stress.
4. Visibility of Symptoms
Children: Teachers and parents often notice behaviours.
Adults: Symptoms can be hidden or mistaken for stress, anxiety, or “personality traits.”
5. Support Systems
Children: Parents, teachers, and schools play a big role in managing symptoms.
Adults: Might self-manage, seek therapy, or request workplace accommodations.
Why Do Symptoms Change with Age?
Several factors explain why ADHD looks different over time:
Brain development: As the brain matures, hyperactive symptoms often decline, but attention and executive function difficulties may persist.
Life demands: Adults juggle careers, finances, and relationships — areas where ADHD-related difficulties can create new challenges.
Coping strategies: Over time, many people develop strategies (like using planners, reminders, or supportive routines) that can mask or reduce certain symptoms.
Misdiagnosis and Missed Diagnosis
Children: Sometimes mislabelled as “naughty” or “lazy.”
Adults: Symptoms often mistaken for depression, anxiety, or stress.
Girls and women in particular are more likely to be underdiagnosed, as they may show inattentive symptoms without disruptive behaviour.
When to Seek Help
If ADHD symptoms are:
Persistent
Present across more than one area of life (home, school, work, relationships)
Causing significant impairment
…then it’s worth seeking a professional ADHD assessment.
Conclusion
ADHD is not just a childhood condition. While symptoms often start in childhood, they can continue into adulthood, shifting in how they appear and impact daily life.
Recognising the differences between child and adult ADHD is essential for early intervention, effective treatment, and ongoing support.
If you or your child show signs of ADHD, a helpful next step can often be to seek clarity. A professional assessment can make all the difference in understanding symptoms and finding the right support.
👉 Contact me today to learn more about ADHD assessments for children and adults.