Children becoming Adults with ADHD

[sea8shell]

My daughter is 8 years old with ADHD. I am wondering if anyone can give me some insight into what it's been like having a child grow into an adult with ADHD. I'm really hoping that some of the bigger issues she has, such as controlling her temper and impulses, subside more as she matures. I'm sure that will get worse through adolescence, but once she's an adult will there be some relief?

[Terrilynn04]

As long as you continue to help her find coping mechanisms and possibly keep her on the right medications...she can overcome it. My twin brother is nearly 40 and has not had such luck. He was diagnosed around 35 and still won’t accept the diagnosis. But it explains why he struggled in his teens in school (when self study discipline is critical b/c they take away a lot of structure that helps ADHD kids cope with their distractions) despite having an extremely high IQ. He’s crazy smart but barely graduated from HS. They didn’t have the same awareness for ADHD back then so it went undiagnosed. He struggles to this day.

On the other hand, I’m very hopeful that with early diagnosis/treatment that I can save my 6 year old from the same struggles he’s faced. Recognition, support, medicine, behavioral therapy for impulsivity...all keys to not having to endure a life long struggle. Actually, that’s not true...it’s going to be a life long struggle, but at least you have ways to help her fight the battles.

Not the best news...the bottom line is, they don’t ever “out grow” it. They just develope ways to cope and when they are tired or upset, coping mechanisms go out the window unfortunately. Look up “emotionally immature adults” and that will paint the picture.

[willandgrace]

My son was diagnosed at 12, and although he's not an adult yet (he's 14) there has been a lot of improvement in the last two years. He recently began really hating his Vyvanse. I called the dr. He said that since my son is going through puberty he seems to be growing out of his ADHD to an extent, and the dosage now is too high. I think that's exactly right. He has gone many days without taking any medication, and although he still struggles with focus, so many other things are no longer an issue- remembering his homework and any items he needs to bring to and from school. Also he makes good decisions ALL the time. He used to be impulsive and sometimes got into trouble but no more. He actually has it together so much more than a lot of kids who DON'T have ADHD. I honestly believe that he is growing out of his ADHD to a great extent. I believe he will always have trouble focusing when he's bored, and so will most likely need some meds, but he has absolutely improved all on his own. He has gone from 30mg to 15mg. I think that's great.

[Pennywink]

I have two adult cousins who were diagnosed in childhood with Tourette, ADHD & OCD.

Both are happily married with full time jobs. One has a successful career in finance and three teen children, the other has a job for a company he obsessively loves. Both only take medication as needed. 😊

[sea8shell]

Thank you for the responses. I think counseling helps and I definitely agree with teaching her the correct coping mechanisms now to get her through life is critical.