When you think of ADHD, you probably conjure up an image of a young kid, bouncing in his seat at school, rolling around on the floor while chewing a pencil and throwing a paper airplane.

Disruptive behaviour in kids is one sign of ADHD – attention deficit hyper-active disorder – one of the most common neuro-developmental disorders, according to the CDC. But it barely begins to cover the range of symptoms that people with ADHD in men can experience – adults included. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) writes, “People with ADHD show a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.”

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ShiftGrit Psychology & Counselling - adhd in men

ShiftGrit Psychology & Counselling - adhd in men

What causes ADHD?

Starting in childhood, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurological condition that may resolve in time – or continue into adulthood. The precise causes of ADHD remain a mystery, but scientists believe it depends on a combination of genetics and environmental triggers.

These include:

  • Brain injury
  • Exposure to environmental toxins during childhood
  • Premature birth and low birth weight

At the present, there is no medically reviewed evidence to suggest that ADHD is caused by external factors such as diet, lifestyle or family dynamics.


What are the signs of ADHD in Men?

  • Organization is a struggle for you, whether its thoughts or objects. 
  • You often find your mind wandering when people are speaking to you.
  • You fidget constantly (tapping fingers, bouncing balls, pacing) or find it hard to stay seated.
  • You have frequent mood swings.
  • Time management is a challenge.
  • You often procrastinate when faced with something you don’t want to do.
  • You don’t know how to set priorities for yourself or meet deadlines.
  • You lose yourself in your interests.
  • You’re extremely fatigued, with no obvious explanation.
  • You had behavioural issues in school as a child. 

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ShiftGrit Psychology & Counselling - adhd in men

ShiftGrit Psychology & Counselling - adhd in men

How Do I know If I have Adult ADHD?

The above symptoms are just guidelines. However, if they resonate with you – and they are impacting your quality of life – talk to your doctor who will be able to examine you holistically.

ADHD testing often includes:

  • A physical exam to rule out any additional or exacerbating symptoms
  • Questionnaires about your personal medical history, family medical history, and your symptoms.
  • Psychological testing to further understand the extent of your symptoms.

What Does Treatment Look Like?

1Some people with adult ADHD use medications to manage their symptoms. If you think you might benefit from such an approach, start by speaking to your physician.  However, you might want to consider other ADHD treatment options as well, including therapy that can help you identify the symptoms of ADHD that are negatively impacting your life and understand how to deal with them.

1For example, if you are the kind of person who can’t stand being confined, make sure you’ve got an escape plan when headed into a potentially boring situation. (It could be as simple as listening to your favourite playlist on a long car ride.)

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