According to Karin Seydel, educational psychologist in Cape Town, two to four percent of adults are affected.

Advertisement

It was believed until recent years that children outgrew ADHD in adolescence. This is because ADHD usually manifests differently in adults.

“Children and teens with ADHD typically exhibit hyperactivity, impulsiveness and poor concentration. Hyperactivity often diminishes during the teen years and the disorder is therefore often misdiagnosed,” she says.

Adults reportedly hang onto impulsive traits and a need for immediate gratification. They may suffer from chronic underachievement, poor confidence and a feeling of being overwhelmed.

Early identification and treatment increase the likelihood of positive long-term outcomes. “If the disorder goes undiagnosed, untreated or is treated inadequately during adulthood, adults may have difficulties at work and in relationships, as well as emotional difficulties,” she says.

Most experts who study ADHD agree, however, that more specific methods are needed to spot the disorder in adults.

 

Print this article

Rate this article Poor 1 2 3 4 5 Excellent

JOBS

Financial Manager R500,000-550,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Gauteng Chief Financial Officer (Chartered Accountant) R1000,000-1500,000 Per Month Cost To Company Gauteng Tax Consultant (Chartered Accountant) AA preferably R300,000-500,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Western Cape - Cape Town Financial Manager/Financial Operations (Chartered Accountant) R380,000-500,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Gauteng Training Specialist R250,000-320,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Gauteng - East Rand CFO Gauteng Human Resources Manager R420,000-540,000 Per Month Cost To Company Gauteng Chief Financial Officer R900,000-901,000 Per Month Cost To Company Gauteng Find more jobs Register your CV Post a job