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Is ADHD Just Childhood? 

PostedOctober 15, 2025
UpdatedOctober 15, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Many people assume childhood ADHD is something kids eventually “grow out of,” but that’s a myth. While symptoms of ADHD often first appear in early life, ADHD is a lifelong ADHD condition for many. The way it presents may shift over time, from hyperactivity in children to forgetfulness, disorganisation, or restlessness in adults, but the underlying neurological traits remain. 

Discover if you have ADHD

Why ADHD Doesn’t Always End with Childhood 

In some cases, children may appear to “grow out” of ADHD, but this is often due to coping mechanisms, structured environments, or simply maturing into less obvious symptoms. However, for many, especially those with inattentive presentations, the challenges continue into adulthood. Unfortunately, adult ADHD recognition remains lower, often because symptoms can be misattributed to stress, burnout, or personality traits. 

Signs ADHD May Continue Into Adulthood 

Time management issues:  

Adults may constantly run late, miss deadlines, or underestimate how long tasks take. 

Disorganisation:  

From chaotic inboxes to misplaced keys, staying organised can be a daily struggle. 

Focus difficulties:  

Holding attention during meetings, reading, or complex tasks often remains a core challenge. 

Emotional dysregulation:  

Mood swings, irritability, or sensitivity to stress are also common in adults with ADHD. 

Recognising that childhood ADHD can evolve into lifelong ADHD helps remove stigma and encourages support at all stages of life. Diagnosis and treatment aren’t just for kids they’re valid and valuable for adults too. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to better understand how brain imaging can inform ADHD treatment.  

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD misconceptions.  

Discover if you have ADHD
Phoebe Carter, MSc
Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
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.