Adult ADHD Statistics

Do you or someone you know have ADHD? 

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that often persists into adulthood. While it’s typically diagnosed in children, many adults experience ADHD symptoms as well. 

In this article, we’ll explore various statistics and surprising facts you may not have known about ADHD. We’ll also discuss how ADHD impacts adults and the available resources you can use to navigate ADHD symptoms and get an accurate diagnosis.

If you think you might have ADHD, but aren’t sure, take our brief 2-minute self evaluation and you’ll be able to meet virtually with a licensed medical provider who can diagnose ADHD and prescribe treatment.

Adult ADHD Diagnostic Rates Are Rising

The rise of ADHD diagnoses is not necessarily a new phenomenon. In fact, according to a JAMA study, we saw significant increases in adults diagnosed with ADHD between 2007 and 2016. The recent spike in diagnoses can be attributed to several factors, including the onset of the pandemic in 2020, which led to the advent of telehealth.

With mental health treatment more readily available, more people began to seek treatment. While access to treatment is undoubtedly a good thing, it’s also led to problems with supply and demand. As provider’s waitlists get longer, people need other ways to manage their ADHD symptoms until they can be seen by a professional. 

Ages 35-44 Lead Adult ADHD Diagnoses

While ADHD can occur at any age, adults between the ages of 35 and 44 are the most likely to be diagnosed with the condition. Harvard Medical School estimated in 2007 that the percentage of adults with ADHD was 4.6% in adults 35 to 44, while 18 to 24 was 4.5% and 25 to 24 was 3.8%. 

Adults With ADHD Are Underdiagnosed

Despite the rising diagnostic rates for adult ADHD, many adults with the condition are still undiagnosed. This could be due to a lack of awareness among adults and healthcare providers and the fact that ADHD symptoms can often be confused with or masked by comorbid conditions. 

Adults With ADHD Often Have a Comorbid Condition

According to BMC Psychiatry, as many as 80% of adults with ADHD also experience other mental health conditions. These additional conditions are called comorbidities and range from anxiety disorders to mood disorders, impulse control, and substance misuse disorders.

ADHD Diagnosis Rates Are Highest Among the White Demographic

Black and Latine children are 36% and 56% less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD, respectively, compared to their white counterparts. This disparity isn’t because Black and Latine children don’t experience ADHD symptoms, but is more so due to systemic racism within schools and healthcare providers. 

A lack of diagnosis and treatment can be dangerous, as symptoms like impulsivity can lead people to make unsafe decisions and result in a higher risk of life-threatening accidents or the involvement of law enforcement. 

ADHD Diagnosis Rates Are Higher Among Males Than Females

The CDC reports that males are 7% more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than females. That said, these statistics can be misleading. People can experience the same symptoms, but they may present in different ways. 

So, while hyperactivity may be a physical cue for boys to receive treatment, girls may be navigating distraction, inattention, or other internalized symptoms. How boys and girls are socialized based on perceived gender roles can also play a role in how they’re diagnosed and treated. 

The earlier the diagnosis, the better the outcomes, so it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. 

Adults With ADHD Are More Likely to Get in a Car Accident

Adults with ADHD may be at a higher risk for car accidents due to their difficulty with attention and impulse control. Research shows that for adults with a history of ADHD, the rate of car crashes was 1.45 times higher than for those without ADHD. Some individuals with ADHD are more likely to engage in risky driving behaviors such as speeding and not wearing a seatbelt. 

Adults with ADHD need to be aware of this risk and take steps to reduce it, such as seeking treatment for their condition and practicing safe driving habits.

Klarity Connects You With a Healthcare Provider Who Can Diagnose and Treat Your ADHD

If you’re struggling with ADHD symptoms, you’ll want to work with a provider who can accurately diagnose you and provide the best treatment. The mental health providers on Klarity can help you find relief through ADHD treatment tailored to your specific needs. 

Take our brief self-evaluation, and we’ll connect you with a licensed provider within 48 hours.