October is Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Awareness Month, and For All Seasons is raising awareness about how this neurodevelopmental disorder, more commonly examined in children, also shows up in adults.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some adults may have ADHD but have never been diagnosed. More than half of adults with ADHD were diagnosed in adulthood. This growing awareness has led more people to seek answers about the challenges they face.

“There has been an increase in young adults seeking ADHD diagnoses. With symptoms widely circulated on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, many individuals are looking for ways to understand the challenges they face and often see a diagnosis and sometimes medication as the solution,” comments Courtney Calloway, LCSW-C, Director of Clinical Retention & Improvement at For All Seasons.

Calloway explains that while identifying symptoms provides clinicians with important insight, it is only one part of the larger picture. Other mental health conditions can overlap with ADHD, including trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, or PTSD, making a thorough evaluation essential.

“Understanding the broader clinical picture is essential for effective treatment. Effective treatment plans will include close monitoring, follow-ups, and making changes, if needed, along the way. If you suspect that you have undiagnosed ADHD, be prepared to spend some time getting a full assessment by a mental health professional to rule out any other potential diagnoses,” she adds.

Although ADHD is often thought of as a childhood disorder, it is increasingly recognized that adults with ADHD continue to face challenges with attention, organization, completing lengthy tasks unless they are interesting, controlling impulsive behavior, and maintaining relationships. Even consistency in healthy habits such as exercise, nutrition, and sleep can be difficult.

Without the right treatment and support, ADHD can impact daily life, health, and well-being. Treatment may include medication, therapy, behavioral strategies, or a combination of these approaches. What works best depends on the individual’s stage of life, environment, and family situation.

Adults are often more cognitively mature and juggle multiple responsibilities such as work, school, and family. Some have developed coping strategies over time, which can mask symptoms and delay diagnosis. As awareness increases, more adults are recognizing that their long-standing struggles may have an underlying cause and that effective help is available.

For All Seasons Behavioral Health & Rape Crisis Center offers mental health services, victim and crisis support, and education & outreach on Maryland’s Mid-Shore and throughout the state. The agency’s unique model of care ensures anyone can receive the highest-quality, trauma-certified mental health care when they need it, regardless of language or ability to pay. For information about For All Seasons walk-in hours, contact 410-822-1018 or visit ForAllSeasonsInc.org.