General Information about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Symptoms of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) during adulthood are sometimes less evident than in childhood because they often coincide with other problems such as occupational and relationship difficulties, substance abuse, low self-esteem, poor time management, risk-taking behaviors, anxiety, and depression. As a result, despite increased public awareness of ADHD, many adults are not evaluated or treated for it. ADHD includes symptoms of inattention as well as symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity, and you may show signs mostly of inattentiveness, mostly of hyperactivity-impulsivity, or a combination of both. In addition to the associated problems listed above, ADHD is characterized by:

	·	trouble paying attention and focusing on one task or activity
	·	difficulty following through on instructions
	·	avoidance or dislike of tasks that require sustained attention
	·	distractibility
	·	restlessness
	·	organizational difficulties
	·	frequent loss of things such as keys, glasses, and materials required for school or work
	·	overall forgetfulness
	·	fidgeting or squirming
	·	interruption of others or blurting out of answers
	·	excessive talking
	·	difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly
	·	impatience
	·	troubled peer relations

Cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD focuses on helping you to improve your organizational, time management, and social and problem-solving skills, all of which can lead to improved self-esteem and occupational, academic, and interpersonal efficacy. For some adults, receiving the diagnosis and learning about ADHD can be invaluable as they begin to understand that there may be a reason for many of their current and past difficulties. Please visit the Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder website for additional information on ADHD and its treatment.

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