How Symptoms Might Manifest in Men With Adult ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition and form of neurodiversity that typically causes symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD can affect anyone of any age or gender but may cause unique symptoms or presentations in adult men. As a man with ADHD, it can be helpful to understand these differences and the specific statistics about this condition to learn how to move forward without shame and find accommodations and support for challenges. Online or in-person therapy can be an excellent place to start.

Seeking professional support can be brave

Talk to a licensed therapist online

Understanding ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder): DSM-5 criteria 

The ADHD symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V) are the same regardless of gender. Understanding these symptoms can be a first step toward understanding ADHD. Although the information in the DSM-V may not fully represent symptoms or presentations, it can serve as a helpful starting point. 

There are three subtypes of ADHD listed in the DSM-5, including the following: 

• Primarily inattentive ADHD (ADHD-PI, previously called ADD)
• Primarily hyperactive and impulsive ADHD (ADHD-HI) 
• Combined type 

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is no longer a diagnosis in the DSM-5. The diagnostic criteria for primarily inattentive ADHD generally include the following: 

• Difficulty paying close attention to details 
• Making mistakes at work or during other activities
• Difficulty sustaining attention during tasks 
• Difficulty listening when spoken to directly
• Difficulty following through on instructions and finishing tasks due to loss of focus or becoming sidetracked
• Difficulty organizing activities 
• Avoiding tasks that require sustained focus 
• Losing items, such as keys, wallets, or documents
• Becoming distracted by extraneous stimuli 
• Becoming forgetful in daily activities 

Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms of ADHD may include the following: 

• Fidgeting behaviors 
• Difficulty sitting still 
• Restlessness
• Difficulty taking part in leisure activities quietly
• A sense that one is “driven by a motor” or always “on the go” 
• Talking excessively or loudly
• Blurting out answers to questions or phrases before someone has finished speaking 
• Difficulty waiting 
• Interrupting or intruding on others

In general, all symptoms must have been present before age 12 for at least six months. In addition, symptoms must be inconsistent with one’s developmental level and impact daily functioning. These symptoms cannot be a result of substance use or another mental or physical health condition. 

Are ADHD symptoms different in men?

In the above study, researchers found that men with ADHD usually have different cognitive function from women with the disorder. Men typically experience less attention impairment than women, but they often have more severe ADHD symptoms during childhood. Further research may be needed to better understand these connections. 

Statistics on ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in men and boys 

There is generally still a limited understanding of the gender differences in ADHD, as stigma, culture, and a lack of research can make it difficult to fully investigate. Currently, the diagnostic criteria for all genders are listed in the DSM-5. However, the following statistics may showcase a few differences men can experience: 

• Boys are normally diagnosed with ADHD at a rate of 13%, compared to 6% in girls. Because ADHD can be lifelong, this prevalence typically continues into adulthood. However, these numbers may be due to women and girls not receiving adequate care or diagnoses. 
• Men tend to be more likely to have combined type ADHD and mood swings. 
• Men and women tend to report their symptoms similarly in self-questionnaires. 
• Men are usually more likely to experience comorbidity in ADHD, meaning they may more commonly experience mental health conditions like substance use disorder, conduct disorder, and antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) alongside ADHD. 

If you are struggling with substance use, such as alcohol misuse, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources.

Stigmas related to the mental health of men and boys

There may be significant stigmas against men seeking mental healthcare. Certain mental illnesses can be overlooked in many adults due to the societal pressure for men to remain “masculine.” Men may experience shame when seeking a diagnosis for any mental health condition, including ADHD. 

A 2020 study found that men tend to be significantly less likely to seek mental healthcare and more likely to turn to dangerous behaviors, such as substance use. Men can also be more likely to die by suicide, which may be connected to difficulty seeking support for mental health crises. Toxic masculinity can contribute to men not receiving proper ADHD treatment or accommodations at work or home. 

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or urges, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or text 988 to talk to a crisis provider over SMS. They are available 24/7 to offer support. 988 also offers an online chat for those with an internet connection.

Ways to cope with ADHD symptoms 

If you’re experiencing ADHD symptoms or have been diagnosed with ADHD as a man, there are a few steps you can take to understand and have empathy for yourself. Managing symptoms is often possible with support and self-care. 

Learn more about neurodivergence

Some individuals may find empowerment by learning more about neurodiversity, a theory that states that conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia are cognitive, sensory, and emotional differences from “typical” presentations of behavior, but are not necessarily diseases and should not be “cured.”

Accommodate yourself in daily life

The neurodiversity movement posits that symptoms of conditions like ADHD may be primarily caused by living in a “neurotypical” world that does not accommodate individuals’ unique brain differences and needs. 

Accommodating yourself in daily life may relieve some challenges. For example, organizational difficulties might be lessened by changing the way you approach organization at home. Instead of folding clothes, some people with ADHD might choose to put them in labeled bins so they’re easy to sort through and pick out throughout the week. 

Release shame

Shame is often an underlying emotion in response to stigma and cultural norms that can make it difficult to seek support. A few self-care practices may guide individuals in reducing shame, including the following: 

Somatic meditation

Meditation practices like progressive muscle relaxation and deep breathing can ground individuals in their bodies during experiences of shame. 

Affirmations

Repeating affirmations like “I am safe,” “I am loveable,” “I am worthy of support,” and “I am brave,” can be a way to reduce shame. 

Inner child work

Connecting with your child self and avoiding judgment or unkind thoughts about who you were as a child may be helpful. You might consider writing a letter to your inner child about how you would’ve supported them in difficult moments. 

Journaling

It may be helpful to journal about your experiences with ADHD and the thoughts that have come up for you after diagnosis or self-discovery. Studies have found that journaling can improve mental well-being. 

Seeking professional support can be brave

Talk to a licensed therapist online

Talk to a therapist

Living with ADHD can be difficult as an adult. Misunderstandings, social stigma, and gender differences in symptoms can be a few causes of distress in men with adult ADHD. It may be helpful to have someone to talk to in these moments, but shame, low self-esteem, and stigma can make it difficult to seek support from mental health services in your area for ADHD therapy. 

In these cases, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may be beneficial. Through an online platform, you can get matched with a therapist based on your needs, preferences and location, and choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions. In addition, you do not necessarily have to share your real name or identifying information if you’re struggling with shame about attending therapy.

Choosing to go to therapy can be brave, and it can also be effective when delivered online. One study found that online counseling could be especially effective for men experiencing mental health challenges, as they were usually more comfortable with the internet format.