If you have ADHD, you are not alone

9.4% of children and 5.2% of adults in the U.S. have ADHD.

Famous people with ADHD:

  • Michael Phelps
  • Adam Levine
  • Simone Biles
  • Terry Bradshaw

People with ADHD say it feels like

  • “There are too many browser tabs open in my brain”
  • “My thoughts are being pulled in a million different directions at once”
  • “Focusing so hard on trying to focus that I don’t actually process what I’m hearing, reading, or watching”
  • “I’m never quite able to reach my full potential”
  • “Constantly forgetting my train of thought mid-sentence, or what I was doing while in the middle of doing it”

Signs and symptoms of ADHD

People who have ADHD may have all or some of the following signs and symptoms:

In children

Inattention

  • Difficulty following instructions
  • Difficulty focusing on tasks
  • Frequently losing or misplacing things at school and home
  • Forgetfulness
  • Easily distracted or has difficulty listening
  • Lacking attention to detail or making careless mistakes
  • Disorganization
  • Often does not complete homework or tasks

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity

  • Is fidgety
  • Runs or climbs inappropriately
  • Talks excessively
  • Difficulty playing quietly
  • Always on the go
  • Blurts out answers
  • Has trouble waiting their turn
  • Often interrupts

In adults

  • Distractibility
  • Disorganization
  • Forgetfulness
  • Procrastination
  • Chronic lateness
  • Chronic boredom
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Low self-esteem
  • Mood swings
  • Employment problems
  • Restlessness
  • Substance abuse or addictions
  • Relationship problems
  • Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD)

Having ADHD is not

  • Exclusive to kids. ADHD is much more than the stereotype of energetic kids. In fact, ADHD persists into adulthood in around 50-65% of individuals.
  • A lack of discipline. When it comes to mental health disorders, it’s not just a matter of willpower. ADHD brains are wired differently, which means that some skills that come naturally to most people are really difficult for those with ADHD.
  • A sign of failure. It’s common for people with ADHD to feel like they just can’t keep up with life. ADHD can make things harder, but workarounds and strategies can help – it has nothing to do with your character.

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Think you have ADHD?

If you or a friend think you might have ADHD, take our free screen to learn more. It only takes a few minutes, and after you are finished, you will be given information about the next steps you can take based on the results.

Take a screen

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.