About 5-8% of children and 2-6% of adults globally have ADHD, though figures vary by location, with estimates suggesting around 1 in 20 Australians (5%) have it, while in the US, about 10.5% of children and 4.4% of adults are diagnosed, with higher rates in boys and white populations. ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental condition, with symptoms often continuing from childhood into adulthood, though diagnosis can be missed in girls and adults.
The 30% rule estimates the delay ADHDers may experience in developing their executive function skills compared to peers of the same age. It suggests that those with ADHD may be around 30% behind their peers without the condition.
ADHD is estimated to affect around 5% of children and 2.5% of adults worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). However, these estimates can vary depending on the criteria used for diagnosis and the population studied.
Due to their symptoms, men with ADHD might experience self-esteem issues and guilt for letting their friends, family members, or partner down. At the same time, they might feel like they're constantly being criticized, nagged, or misunderstood. It's important to be understanding and supportive.
Symptoms continue into adulthood for many people with ADHD, but they may change with age. For instance, inattentive symptoms often persist as people get older, whereas hyperactivity and impulsivity are more likely to decline.
How it works: Commit to doing a task for just 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, you can stop—or often, momentum carries you forward. This leverages reduced overwhelm and the brain's reward system.
Adolescence (Ages 13-18)
In adolescence, the academic and organizational challenges associated with ADHD can become more pronounced. ADHD symptoms in teen boys and girls may include: Difficulty completing assignments: Boys may struggle to manage long-term projects or meet deadlines.
The 1/3/5 rule is a task prioritization strategy that is ideal for ADHD brains: select one large critical task, three medium tasks, and five minor rapid tasks for the day. This eliminates overburden while allowing you to tackle a variety of tasks.
Dislikes or avoids activities that require paying attention for more than one or two minutes. Loses interest and starts doing something else after engaging in an activity for a few moments. Talks a lot more and makes more noise than other children of the same age. Climbs on things when instructed not to do so.
Increase stress relief by exercising outdoors—people with ADHD often benefit from sunshine and green surroundings. Try relaxing forms of exercise, such as mindful walking, yoga, or tai chi. In addition to relieving stress, they can teach you to better control your attention and impulses.
Understanding the 10 3 Rule for ADHD. Set a timer for 10 minutes and work on that task with full focus, knowing that a break is just around the corner. When the timer goes off, take a 3-minute break to reset your brain. The 10-3 Rule is a simple yet powerful productivity technique tailored to support the ADHD brain.
For individuals with ADHD, forming deep bonds with family, friends, and community can counteract feelings of isolation and boost self-esteem. Family Bonding: Engage in regular, meaningful activities with family members. Open communication and shared experiences help build trust and emotional support.
ADHD Burnout Cycle
It typically involves: Initial high levels of energy and motivation are often accompanied by hyperfocus. Overcommitment and pushing beyond one's limits due to a desire to keep up with demands. Gradual decline in energy and functioning as stress accumulates and coping mechanisms become depleted.
Use the five-minute rule
Commit to working on something for just five minutes. This can sidestep internal resistance and build momentum naturally. Many people find they continue past the five-minute mark once they get going.
The only way to know for sure is to see a doctor. That's because the disorder has several possible symptoms, and they can easily be confused with those of other conditions, such as depression or anxiety. Everyone misplaces car keys or jackets once in a while. But this kind of thing happens often when you have ADHD.
Symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
They involve a person's ability to pay attention to things (being inattentive), having high energy levels (being hyperactive) and their ability to control their impulses (being impulsive).
The 5 C's framework—Consistency, Self-Control, Compassion, Collaboration, and Celebration—offers families a powerful, evidence-based approach to parenting teens with ADHD. However, some teens with ADHD require more intensive support than even the most dedicated parents can provide at home.
Unlike traditional ADHD, which is more visibly disruptive, high-functioning ADHD manifests through procrastination, emotional overwhelm, and struggles with focus. Women with ADHD may excel professionally and academically, but this success often comes at a cost — hidden exhaustion, burnout, and self-doubt.
The 24-Hour Rule for ADHD encourages pausing before reacting or making decisions to reduce impulsivity and emotional reactivity. By waiting a full day, individuals can process emotions, reflect objectively, and make choices aligned with long-term goals rather than immediate feelings.
Summary of Findings
The AADPA guideline15 recommends prescribing stimulants such as methylphenidate, dexamfetamine, or lisdexamfetamine as first-line treatment for people living with ADHD. The recommendation was supported by evidence provided from the previous NICE guideline,16 with no new studies identified.
Adults with ADHD often struggle with routine tasks due to fluctuating attention levels. You may find it hard to keep track of schedules and deadlines, resulting in missed appointments or late project submissions. Memory lapses are frequent, causing you to lose items or overlook important details.
Active and dynamic jobs
Why are my ADHD symptoms getting worse?
Symptoms. Some people with ADHD have fewer symptoms as they age, but some adults continue to have major symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. In adults, the main features of ADHD may include difficulty paying attention, impulsiveness and restlessness. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.