ADHD in adults and children: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder that affects the ability to concentrate, control impulses and regulate activity. Many think ADHD only affects children, but up to 60% of children with ADHD continue to experience symptoms in adulthood.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a dysfunction of certain brain areas responsible for attention, planning and behavior control. It's not "laziness" or "bad parenting" — it's a medical condition that requires professional help.

Main types of ADHD:

Predominantly inattentive type — difficulties with concentration, forgetfulness, organization problems
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type — constant need for movement, impulsivity
Combined type — combination of inattention and hyperactivity symptoms

ADHD symptoms in children

Inattention:

✓ Difficulty focusing on tasks, especially boring ones
✓ Frequent careless mistakes in schoolwork
✓ Doesn't listen when spoken to directly
✓ Doesn't finish tasks
✓ Loses things (school supplies, toys)
✓ Easily distracted by external stimuli
✓ Forgetfulness in daily activities

Hyperactivity and impulsivity:

✓ Constantly fidgets, can't sit still
✓ Gets up in situations when should be seated (in class)
✓ Excessive talking
✓ Blurts out answers before question is finished
✓ Can't wait their turn
✓ Interrupts others, intrudes on conversations

ADHD symptoms in adults

In adulthood, symptoms may manifest differently:

Attention problems:

✓ Difficulties with organization and planning
✓ Chronic procrastination
✓ Difficulty focusing on one task
✓ Frequently switching between tasks without finishing
✓ Forgetfulness (meetings, deadlines, promises)

Impulsivity:

✓ Impulsive decisions without thinking of consequences
✓ Interrupting others in conversation
✓ Impatience in queues or traffic
✓ Difficulty managing emotions
✓ Risky behavior

Hyperactivity:

✓ Internal restlessness, feeling like a "motor running"
✓ Difficulty relaxing and resting
✓ Need to constantly be busy
✓ Excessive talkativeness

ADHD diagnosis

ADHD diagnosis is a comprehensive process that includes:

Detailed history taking — developmental history, childhood behavior, current symptoms
Clinical interview — conversation with patient (and parents if it's a child)
Specialized questionnaires and tests — to assess symptoms
Ruling out other conditions — depression, anxiety, thyroid problems

⚠️ Important: ADHD diagnosis can only be made by a qualified specialist — psychiatrist or neurologist.

ADHD treatment

Medication:

ADHD medications help improve concentration and reduce impulsivity:

Stimulants (methylphenidate) — most effective medications
Non-stimulants (atomoxetine) — alternative for those who can't tolerate stimulants

Psychotherapy:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — helps develop organizational and time management skills
Parent training — for parents of children with ADHD
Coaching — support in achieving goals and forming good habits

Lifestyle changes:

✓ Regular sleep schedule
✓ Physical activity
✓ Healthy diet
✓ Stress management techniques
✓ Using planners and reminders

How 103telemed helps with ADHD

For children:

Online child psychiatrist consultation:

Initial assessment of symptoms and behavior
Diagnostic recommendations
Referral for additional examinations
Parent support and diagnosis explanation
Treatment prescription (if needed)

For adults:

Online psychiatrist/psychologist consultation:

Diagnostic symptom assessment
Medication therapy selection
Psychotherapy recommendations
Treatment effectiveness monitoring
Therapy adjustment if needed

Online consultation benefits:

🏠 Convenient — no need to travel to clinic
🗣 In your language — consultations in Russian, Ukrainian, Polish
⏱ Fast — appointment within 1-2 days
💊 Online prescriptions — doctor will prescribe if needed
🇪🇺 Valid in EU — prescriptions can be filled in EU countries

When to see a specialist?

In children:

Persistent school problems (performance, behavior)
Teacher complaints about inattention or hyperactivity
Difficulties communicating with peers
Low self-esteem due to failures

In adults:

Chronic work problems (missed deadlines, errors)
Relationship difficulties due to forgetfulness or impulsivity
Constant feeling of tasks being "undone"
Financial problems due to impulsive purchases
Suspected ADHD in childhood but never diagnosed

ADHD myths

❌ Myth 1: "ADHD only affects children"

Reality: Up to 60% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms in adulthood.

❌ Myth 2: "ADHD is just laziness"

Reality: ADHD is a neurological disorder with changes in brain structure and function.

❌ Myth 3: "ADHD medications are addictive"

Reality: When properly used under doctor supervision, medications are safe and not addictive.

❌ Myth 4: "You can outgrow ADHD"

Reality: While symptoms may change with age, many adults continue to need support.

Consultation costs at 103telemed

Psychologist consultation: from 139 PLN (€30-35)
Psychiatrist consultation: from 189 PLN (€40-45)
Follow-up consultation: from 139 PLN

All consultations include recommendations, action plan and prescriptions if needed.

Conclusion

ADHD is a manageable condition. With proper diagnosis and treatment, people with ADHD can lead full lives, successfully study and work. The key is to seek specialist help in time.

If you notice ADHD symptoms in yourself or your child, don't delay consultation. 103telemed doctors will help understand the situation and propose an action plan.

Book a consultation:

Website: 103telemed.com
Telegram: @I03telemed
Phone: +48 666 636 109

Medical information in this article is for informational purposes. For diagnosis and treatment prescription, consult a doctor.

ADHD in adults and children: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment — online consultation