Does ADHD Go Away?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder most typically diagnosed in childhood and adolescence. According to a global meta-analysis from CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention/Hyperactivity Disorder), roughly 7.2% of children and adolescents ages 5-19 years have received an ADHD diagnosis at some point worldwide. 

Does ADHD go away as you get older?

Because of its association with childhood and adolescence, misconceptions that you can outgrow ADHD or that it does go away with time are common— but statistics from the same CHADD review point to a different conclusion, with as many as 27% of adults having been diagnosed at some point in life in an outpatient treatment setting.  

While some symptoms might change or diminish, ADHD continues to pose unique challenges and opportunities for growth as it extends its influence into adolescence and adulthood. In this exploration, we'll delve into questions about why the nature of ADHD symptoms often change over time and outline some key examples of how they present with age. 

ADHD doesn't go away with time

But with help, it is manageable

How and why do ADHD symptoms change with age?

Data on how ADHD symptoms change reveal variable patterns. For example, one recent multimodal treatment study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry reports, "Although intermittent periods of remission can be expected in most cases, 90% of children with ADHD (participating in the study) continued to experience residual symptoms into young adulthood." Another 2022 study published in the Journal of Global Health suggests that ADHD prevalence in adults declines even more dramatically, particularly between ages 18-24 to 60 years and beyond. 

Changes in the appearance of ADHD symptoms

While many current studies indicate that significant symptoms of ADHD do appear to decline with age, it's essential to note that other research suggests that the prevalence of symptoms may not necessarily decline but may appear to in some cases because the presentation of symptoms changes with time. 

For example, a 2023 study published in Frontiers of Psychiatry found that while levels of ADHD-specific symptoms decreased in adolescents as compared to children, so did levels of global functioning and adaptive skills. 

Still, more research suggests that even if behavioral symptoms go away as one ages, the differences in brain structure between people with ADHD and people without do not. One such magnetic resonance imaging study observed that adults with ADHD not only still meet the diagnostic criteria, but because of those persisting neurological abnormalities, adults who no longer present symptoms may still have difficulties with specific cognitive tasks and diminished functioning in neural activity.

The fluidity of ADHD symptoms

Despite the consistencies in brain structure from childhood to adulthood, ADHD symptoms do appear to be fluid for most people. Experts have varying explanations for why ADHD symptoms may rise, fall, and change with age. Some of these factors include:

• Early misdiagnosis
• Age of intervention
• Treatment effectiveness
• Environmental support
• Stress and comorbidities

How do ADHD symptoms present with age?

ADHD symptoms typically differ between individuals and types. For example, people with predominantly inattentive presentation ADHD (formerly known as ADD) might have obvious trouble with organization and task completion, be easily distracted, and appear to frequently "daydream."

Those with predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation often appear more restless and fidgety, have trouble with excessive talking, and have problems with impulsive speech and behaviors. Finally, people with combined inattentive/hyperactive-impulsive ADHD typically display a combination—often struggling with impulsivity and hyperactivity as well as concentration and attention. 

Inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are core ADHD symptoms. How they present often depends on one's life stage. 

Preschool/early elementary school: ADHD symptoms

Some level of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention is developmentally normal within the context of child psychology. However, with childhood ADHD, these behaviors are more pronounced and persistent and often impact their daily functioning in school or at home. Because untreated ADHD can result in severe interference with functionality later in life, early intervention and ongoing support does play an essential role in optimizing outcomes.

Here are some common symptoms of ADHD that mental health specialists may look for in preschool and early elementary school-aged children:

ADHD hyperactivity in young children is characterized by an inability to sit still and constant squirming/fidgeting. Kids with hyperactivity issues may run or climb in inappropriate situations and have difficulty engaging in quiet, focused activities. 

Children with impulsivity issues may frequently interrupt others, have trouble waiting for their turn in games or group activities, and act without thinking, regardless of potential danger. Symptoms like these sometimes create difficulties for children with ADHD in making and maintaining friendships.

Later elementary school/early middle school: ADHD symptoms

As ADHD progresses into later elementary school and early middle school, it can continue to evolve beyond the core symptoms of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity—most notably due to increased academic and social demands. Here are some additional ADHD symptoms that may be observed in later elementary and early middle school:

High school/young adulthood: ADHD symptoms

Academic, social, and organizational demands typically increase during high school and young adulthood, potentially highlighting further challenges associated with ADHD. Here are some common ADHD symptoms that may be observed in high school and young adulthood:

This phase of life is often characterized by an emphasis on meeting goals and expectations. At this point, individuals with adult ADHD might have trouble managing multiple responsibilities and deadlines. Forgetfulness regarding commitments to work or school obligations can create severe barriers, as can poor organizational skills and time management. 

Social challenges

Teens and young adults with ADHD might experience challenges in navigating social dynamics. Impulsive comments or actions and difficulty with social cues and non-verbal communication can result in a diminished ability to establish and maintain relationships. 

Emotional regulation 

Transition challenges

Difficulty transitioning between tasks or adapting to changes in routine might have a more significant impact on people with ADHD during the teenage/young adulthood phase by creating challenges in making long-term plans and setting goals. 

ADHD doesn't go away with time

But with help, it is manageable

How therapy can help

Because of the consequences of undiagnosed ADHD, it can be helpful for people who suspect they may have the disorder to seek guidance from an experienced mental health professional. Due to the rise in popularity of online therapy, accessibility to mental health professionals with a background in helping individuals cope with ADHD is easier for a broader range of people.  

Virtual therapy for managing ADHD symptoms

Virtual therapy through platforms like BetterHelp can benefit individuals with ADHD in several ways. For example, one may schedule appointments with a therapist when it's convenient from the comfort of home. This can be particularly helpful for those with ADHD who may struggle with time management and organization. Home telehealth appointments are also sometimes more suitable than conventional in-person therapy because they reduce the potential for distractions and may feel less overwhelming. 

Also, online therapy is often more affordable than traditional therapy without insurance, and a diverse body of research indicates it's just as effective for treating ADHD as well as comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression.