Does Hyperactivity Persist in Adulthood in Individuals with ADHD?

PostedAugust 22, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, ADHD in adults often involves ongoing hyperactivity, although it usually appears differently than it was in childhood.While children with ADHD may display overt physical movement and impulsivity, adult hyperactivity is frequently internalised showing up as restlessness, impatience, or a racing mind. The outward signs may fade, but for many, the underlying challenges remain part of daily life.

How Persistent ADHD Symptoms Evolve Over Time

As people with ADHD grow older, brain development and improved coping strategies can help them manage or even mask some symptoms. However, persistent ADHD symptoms such as difficulty focusing, trouble sitting through meetings, or constantly shifting tasks can continue into adulthood. This shift does not mean the condition has disappeared; rather, it has evolved. Many adults report feeling unable to relax or struggling with boredom, even during downtime.

What Adult Hyperactivity Looks Like

This is how ADHD in adults typically presents when hyperactivity persists:

Mental Restlessness and Impatience

Adults with ADHD may feel constantly “on edge” or mentally overactive, often struggling to slow down their thoughts.This can lead to stress, poor sleep and difficulty relaxing, especially when paired with demanding routines.

Overcommitting and Task Switching

They may jump between responsibilities, start multiple projects, or find it hard to finish one task before moving to the next. This affects productivity and creates a sense of being perpetually overwhelmed.

Fidgeting and Physical Restlessness

While adults may not climb furniture like hyperactive children, they often tap their feet, pace, or seek constant motion. Even low-level movement can interfere with work focus and social interactions.

Recognising that adult hyperactivity exists and understanding how it presents can help individuals seek support and make adjustments that improve daily functioning.

For personal consultations on ADHD in adults, visit providers like ADHD Certify. For a deeper dive into persistent ADHD symptoms, recognising adult hyperactivity, and finding effective strategies, read our complete guide Hyperactivity.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.