Often Missed in Childhood
Many women first wonder about ADHD as adults, after years of working harder than everyone else to stay organized. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) says ADHD symptoms among girls and women are especially likely to have been missed in childhood, and that sex differences in diagnosis rates begin to even out in adulthood.
A girl who daydreams, loses things and struggles to finish work, but does not disrupt the class, can go unnoticed for years. As an adult, the same pattern can show up as missed deadlines, a cluttered home, unfinished projects and the feeling of always being behind.
What It Can Look Like in Adult Life
NIMH lists problems like these in adults with ADHD: difficulty paying attention and often getting distracted; disorganization and procrastination; poor time management and planning; trouble remembering daily tasks; frequently losing things; trouble focusing on a large task or multitasking; trouble following instructions or finishing projects; restlessness and a need for constant activity; and frequently interrupting others or being very talkative.
Adults with ADHD often have a history of poor academic performance, work problems or strained relationships. Sleep problems are especially common, affecting up to 70% of adults with ADHD, according to NIMH.
How an Adult Evaluation Works
ADHD symptoms must begin in childhood, so adults must have shown symptoms starting before age 12. That is why an adult evaluation relies heavily on your history: school experiences, report cards if you have them, and what family members remember can all help.
ADHD often occurs alongside other conditions, such as anxiety, depression and sleep problems, and they can look alike. A careful evaluation sorts out what is ADHD, what is something else, and what is both, so treatment fits.
If you have not completed a formal ADHD evaluation or testing before, objective ADHD testing is required before ADHD treatment begins. The testing is self-pay and not covered by insurance; your visits with your provider may be billed to insurance.
Treatment
NIMH says treatment for ADHD can reduce symptoms and improve functioning, and that effective treatment often combines elements. Treatment is built around your symptoms, health and preferences. It can include medication when clinically appropriate, counseling for organization and coping strategies, and regular follow-up.
If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, tell your provider so your plan can take that into account.
Getting Care in the Charleston Area
Charleston County has about one mental health provider for every 214 residents, compared with one for every 437 across South Carolina. Our office is on Gardner Road in West Ashley, and we also see adults anywhere in South Carolina by secure video, so you do not have to wait for a local opening or take time off to drive.
We accept Medicare, most major commercial plans, and all South Carolina Medicaid managed care plans except Select Health (First Choice). New patients are often able to be scheduled within a week of requesting an appointment.
Sources
The facts on this page come from: National Institute of Mental Health, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults: What You Need to Know (2024); CMS National Provider Identification file, 2024, via County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, 2025.
Common Symptoms
Treatment Options
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Frequently Asked Questions
NIMH says ADHD symptoms among girls and women are especially likely to have been missed in childhood, and that sex differences in diagnosis rates begin to even out in adulthood.
Yes. Adults can be diagnosed when symptoms started before age 12, so the evaluation relies heavily on your history.
ADHD often occurs alongside anxiety, depression and sleep problems, and they can look alike. A careful evaluation sorts out which is which.
Yes. You can be seen in person in West Ashley or by telehealth from anywhere in South Carolina.