Many adults grew up hearing that ADHD is just a “school problem.” But ADHD doesn’t disappear after childhood — it shows up in everyday life, in ways that aren’t always obvious.
If you’ve ever felt like life seems harder than it is for other people, you’re not imagining it. And you’re definitely not alone.
Here are two research-supported ways ADHD can affect your daily life — and some strategies for managing them.
1. Half of adults with ADHD don’t have a primary care physician
Research consistently shows around 40–50% of adults with ADHD do not have a primary care provider.
This isn’t because adults with ADHD don’t care about their health — it’s because the healthcare system relies heavily on executive functioning, the exact areas ADHD impacts.
Common ADHD-related barriers include:
- Difficulty comparing clinics, insurance networks, or plan options
- Feeling overwhelmed by intake forms, portals, and follow-up tasks
- Trouble remembering to schedule or attend appointments
- Losing momentum during long wait times
- Avoiding care after past negative experiences
This isn’t irresponsibility — it’s ADHD in the real world. With the right support, adults with ADHD can establish and maintain consistent care.
Helpful strategies include:
- Using checklists scripts to make scheduling easier
- Breaking tasks into small steps
- Relying on reminders and automation for appointments and refills
- Bringing support or written notes to appointments
2. Adults with ADHD face higher driving risks — and there are ways to reduce them
Driving is a complex task that requires sustained attention, quick decision-making, emotional regulation, and inhibition — all areas impacted by ADHD.
Research shows that adults with ADHD are more likely to experience:
- Traffic collisions
- At-fault accidents
- Driving citations
- License suspensions
- Distracted or inconsistent driving patterns
The problem isn’t a lack of knowledge — most adults with ADHD know the rules. The challenge is executing them in real-time, especially on long, boring, or emotionally-charged drives.
Helpful strategies include:
- Medication — stimulants have been shown to improve driving performance
- Addressing sleep, mood, and substance use concerns
- Reducing in-car distractions, especially phones
- Behavioral strategies and coaching — even small changes can make a difference
These challenges are not moral failings. They are features of how ADHD brains operate and they’re manageable with the right supports.
Next Week:
Stay tuned for the next newsletter where we’ll explore how ADHD can affect relationships and work — two areas that are often misunderstood but very real for adults with ADHD.
Feeling like this is familiar?
You are not alone. ADHD can impact daily life in ways many people don’t see, but clarity and support are possible.
A neuropsychological evaluation can help you understand your strengths, challenges, and the strategies that actually work for your brain.
When you’re ready, we’re here to help.
