Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: Conceptual and clinical issues

Reports published over the past decade indicate that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a cause of significant pyschological impairment in adults. - The adulthood disorder occurs as a continuation of its childhood counterpart, with the full ADHD syndrome persisting into early adulthood in about a third of those with childhood ADHD. - Despite advances in the understanding of the neurobiology of adult ADHD, the diagnosis is made clinically by establishing a retrospective childhood diagnosis, evaluated the current symptom profile and excluding alternative medical of psychiatric causes of symptoms. - Adults with ADHD have high rates of comorbid psychiatric disorder and suffer significant relationship dysfunction, work and educational failure. - There is emerging evidence for the effectiveness of specific treatments for adult ADHD, including stimulant medications and some antidepressants. - Clinicians should be aware of this potentially treatable disorder in young adults presenting with psychological difficulties and a history of childhood ADHD symptoms.