Young Adults with ADHD

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Monday, September 14th, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed

Young adults often make it through their entire lives without ever being diagnosed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, even though they sense they are different from their peers. Parents fear talking to their children’s doctor about it because they do not want their kids put on Ritalin or other strong medication. Then, later in life, these special needs adults suffer quietly because they fear stigmas from their classmates, coworkers, family members and friends. They don’t want it to seem like something is “wrong” with them, so they internalize their emotions into depression, aggression or anxiety. Studies show that, with a little understanding and resources, ADHD adults can live meaningful and successful lives, despite their unique challenges.

A 2005 study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders found that young adults with ADHD had a more difficult time adjusting to college academically, socially and emotionally, when compared to their non-ADHD peers. Researchers found that nearly all the students with ADHD anxiety had never been previously diagnosed or received any prior treatment. They also concluded that universities need better support services like specialized counseling programs and labs for reading difficulties to help these students. Despite the difficulties students faced, researchers added that the potential to succeed was there.

Young adults with ADHD tend to perform much better once they understand what type of adult learning styles pertain to them. This newfound understanding can help improve self-esteem that may be holding them back and also shed some insight into how to cope with the difficulties that surface. According to ADHD anxiety therapist and coach, Rory Stern, there are three main types of learning styles associated with ADHD: visual, auditory and kinesthetic. Visual learners work best with colorful illustrations, written notes, outlines, charts, maps and educational videos. Auditory learners cue into voice tone, speed, volume, inflection, music, body language, class discussions and lectures. Kinesthetic learning, which is the most common style for ADHD adults, thrive best with tactile, hands-on activities, field trips, crafts, unit studies, science experiments and skits.

Once the adult ADHD students graduate, they are likely wondering, “What jobs are available to young adults like me?” Some contend that entrepreneurial jobs are great because they allow for greater freedom. Others say that stimulating, action-oriented jobs like firefighting, piloting a plane or EMT work is best because it’s not dull. There have been reports of successful special needs adults working as teachers, journalists, attorneys, computer scientists and a number of other professions. The most important thing is that the individual considers his or her personal interests, personality type, strengths, weaknesses and level of training.

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