July 22, 2025- Hallmarks of ADHD are lack of focus, inattention and procrastination. Additional characteristics are hyperactivity and impulsivity for many persons. These traits can cause great psychological havoc if a person is not diagnosed and treated for the symptoms. The symptoms often lead to problems in socialization, academics, anger and being able to make good decisions and carry them out when persons raising them and educating them are not aware they have ADHD. The result can be constant anger and frustration at them and a belief they are purposely not trying to do what needs to be done. The fact they often can hyper focus on something that catches their attention often leads to an even greater belief they could do better if they would just try harder. The person who has these traits of ADHD and has not been diagnosed feels this is the way they are and they cannot change. This obviously can cause a lot of anxiety, worry, anger, frustration and depression because they keep falling behind and get chastised by persons who may love and care for them, but are not aware of their problems and how to help them. The anxiety and depression can occur when they do not succeed in life and they find themselves having problems in relationships, in school and in their work because of their inability to pay attention and focus. It is estimated that at least 70% and even more persons with ADHD have additional mental health problems. The overlap with anxiety can be as high as 50% and with depression 30%. Problems with substance abuse and anger also are higher with persons with ADHD than the average person. In our offices, as recent as 10 years ago, most of the evaluations we did were with children. Right now, I would say that 85% of the evaluations we do for ADHD are with adults. Interestingly, the adult evaluations often occur when their children are diagnosed with ADHD and they realize they have the same characteristics and have had to deal with them their whole lives without anybody diagnosing them and offering them some combination of medical and mental health suggestions on how to overcome their ADHD symptoms and resulting problem areas of concern. If you believe you have ADHD, now is the time to consider an evaluation to help you lead a more balanced and fulfilling life with appropriate medical and mental health support.