The neurodevelopmental condition of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has become more and more popular with an overwhelming amount of available information from symptoms, implications to daily life and treatment. However, not many professionals discuss the consequences of leaving ADHD untreated. The ongoing debate whether to medicate or not to medicate brings up important considerations when making this personal decision; however, treatment for ADHD goes beyond medication and there are important factors and information to consider.
Research shows that when left unmanaged, ADHD is among the most debilitating disorders to live with as it negatively impacts all areas of life. In childhood, the condition impairs academic, social and emotional functioning; while in adulthood these same problems may follow a person and impact job performance, marital and family relations, mental health and safety.
Childhood
Children with untreated ADHD face daily problems at home, school and friendships. In school, untreated ADHD can mean falling behind and getting poor grades despite being bright. Having a hard time sitting still, paying attention and following directions not only impact academic success, but how school staff and classmates view the child. As the student moves up to higher grades problems become more apparent as the workload gets more intense, while expectations and pressures increase.
ADHD can also strain relationships and social interactions. Impulsivity and inattention often lead to misunderstanding or missed cues resulting in difficulty getting along with others. These difficulties coupled with the struggle of managing emotions and emotional responses often result in trouble making and keeping friends, getting along with parents and other adults. This all impacts the child’s concept of self and self-esteem, anxiety and depression, while limiting the child’s support circle.
Left alone, ADHD can increase the chance of dangerous behaviors impacting health, well-being and quality of life. Kids and young adults are more prone to injuries and visits to the ER due to impulsivity and distractibility, poor choices, risky behaviors and self-medicating as the brain and nervous system are seeking the much-needed stimulation and brain chemicals are impacted by ADHD.
Adulthood
Although some symptoms may improve with age, ADHD can be a lifelong problem. Adults with untreated ADHD are more likely to have employment problems. Difficulties arise with the ability of getting a job and, later, being able to keep it. They are more likely to have trouble managing their time and getting to work on time, completing tasks by a set deadline, staying organized, managing criticism and getting along with co-workers and supervisors.
Similarly to childhood, difficulties in relationships and getting along with others, regulating emotions, managing day to day tasks and engaging in risky behaviors are all at an increased rate for untreated ADHD in adults.
Treatment, ideally in early life, is crucial and makes a huge difference in the quality of life when living with ADHD. Whether treatment is through therapy, medication or lifestyle changes all of these can help with managing symptoms, boosting self-esteem and navigating life’s challenges more effectively.
At Dandelion, we are passionate about supporting kids and families struggling with symptoms of ADHD. This doesn’t need to be a defining feature of the individual, though, when ignored and left unmanaged it can take over and make it hard to live a fulfilling life. Reach out and let us help.