November 30, 2025

ADHD in Adults: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Georgia

Many people associate ADHD with fidgety children in classrooms. But for thousands of adults across Georgia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a daily struggle that affects their careers, relationships, and emotional well-being.

At Daniel Perry MD, Savannah's trusted psychiatry practice, we help adults understand, diagnose, and treat ADHD with compassion, clarity, and evidence-based care. Whether you've suspected ADHD for years or recently noticed attention and organization issues, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about ADHD in adulthood.

What Is ADHD in Adults?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that begins in childhood but often goes undiagnosed until later in life. While some individuals are diagnosed as children, many adults live with ADHD for decades without knowing they have it, especially if they were labeled as disorganized, lazy, or impulsive during school.

In adults, ADHD can manifest differently than in children. Hyperactivity may fade, but problems with focus, organization, and time management persist. Many adults also experience anxiety, depression, or substance use, either as co-occurring conditions or as coping mechanisms.

Common Symptoms of Adult ADHD

The symptoms of adult ADHD often fall into two main categories: inattention and impulsivity or hyperactivity. Here's what that might look like in real life.

Inattention

  • Difficulty focusing during meetings or conversations
  • Frequently losing keys, phones, or other important items
  • Starting projects but struggling to complete them
  • Easily distracted by external stimuli or internal thoughts
  • Trouble organizing tasks, bills, or schedules
  • Forgetting appointments or deadlines

Impulsivity or Hyperactivity

  • Interrupting others during conversations
  • Making decisions quickly without thinking them through
  • Difficulty waiting your turn in conversations or situations
  • Restlessness or inability to relax
  • Talking excessively or feeling on edge

Many people with adult ADHD describe it as having 20 tabs open in your brain and none of them loading fully.

Emotional and Social Impact of ADHD in Adults

ADHD isn't just about focus. It affects every part of life. Adults with undiagnosed or untreated ADHD may experience:

  • Low self-esteem: After years of missed deadlines and underachieving, self-worth often suffers
  • Relationship strain: Impulsivity or forgetfulness can create frustration in personal or romantic relationships
  • Career difficulties: Missed details, procrastination, or inconsistent performance can affect job stability
  • Mental health struggles: ADHD often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders

This is why proper diagnosis and treatment are life-changing.

How Adult ADHD Is Diagnosed in Georgia

At Daniel Perry MD, diagnosing ADHD in adults is never rushed or superficial. We approach each case with empathy and clinical rigor.

A typical ADHD evaluation includes

  • A detailed clinical interview
  • Review of childhood history and academic or work patterns
  • ADHD-specific rating scales and assessments
  • Screening for anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use
  • Optional input from family, partners, or past medical providers

There is no single test for ADHD. Diagnosis is based on clinical criteria and how symptoms impact your daily life. If another mental health condition is contributing to your symptoms, we’ll help identify that too.

"When someone asks for help, it's an act of courage. My role is to meet them with compassion, evidence-based care, and a genuine partnership."
– Dr. Daniel Perry, MD, MPH

Adult ADHD Treatment Options in Georgia

The good news is that adult ADHD is treatable, and with the right plan, symptoms can be managed effectively.

At our Savannah clinic and virtually across Georgia, we tailor ADHD treatment plans based on each patient’s unique needs.

Medication Management

ADHD medications work by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine.

  • Stimulant medications like Adderall, Vyvanse, or Ritalin are the most commonly prescribed and often highly effective
  • Non-stimulant options like Strattera or Wellbutrin may be used in patients who don’t tolerate stimulants or have co-occurring conditions

We start with a careful evaluation of your medical history, lifestyle, and goals and monitor closely to ensure the best response with minimal side effects.

Behavioral and Cognitive Support

While medication helps with core symptoms, many adults also benefit from learning new tools and strategies.

We often collaborate with local therapists and counselors across Georgia to provide:

  • Executive functioning coaching
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for ADHD
  • Time and task management skills
  • Emotion regulation and self-esteem support

Adults with ADHD often develop coping workarounds without realizing it, like relying heavily on calendars, reminders, or intense deadline pressure. Professional support helps refine these strategies into consistent, healthy habits.

Telepsychiatry Across Georgia

You don’t have to live in Savannah to get expert ADHD care. We offer secure, HIPAA-compliant virtual appointments for patients across the state of Georgia.

Telepsychiatry is ideal for:

  • Busy professionals
  • Parents with full schedules
  • College students
  • Anyone who prefers care from home

You’ll receive the same personalized treatment and support without the drive.

FAQs

Can ADHD develop in adulthood?

ADHD doesn't start in adulthood, but it’s often diagnosed later because childhood signs were missed or misunderstood. Life stressors in college, parenting, or careers can bring symptoms to the surface.

Is ADHD overdiagnosed?

While ADHD is discussed more now than in the past, research supports that many adults, especially women, remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Our goal is accurate, responsible diagnosis based on evidence, not assumptions.

What’s the difference between ADHD and anxiety?

They can look similar. Both can cause restlessness, forgetfulness, and focus issues. However, ADHD is more chronic and begins earlier in life. That’s why expert evaluation is key.

Why Choose Dr. Daniel Perry for ADHD Treatment?

With over five years of psychiatric experience in Savannah, Dr. Daniel Perry, MD, MPH has helped countless adults reclaim control over their lives through thoughtful ADHD care.

Here’s what sets our practice apart

  • Specialization in ADHD, addiction, and treatment-resistant conditions
  • Compassionate, no-rush appointments focused on trust and understanding
  • Virtual consultations available anywhere in Georgia
  • A collaborative approach with therapists and primary care doctors
  • 100 percent commitment to patient privacy, dignity, and long-term wellness

Take the First Step Toward Focus and Clarity

Adult ADHD doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means your brain works differently, and with the right support, you can thrive.

Whether you're exploring ADHD for the first time or seeking better treatment options, we're here to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered.

In-Person Appointments

315 Commercial Drive, Suite D-6, Savannah, GA 31406

Telepsychiatry Available

Serving patients across the state of Georgia

Call Us Today

(912) 513-2888

Book an Appointment Online

https://spruce.care/danielperrymd

Don’t let focus issues hold you back any longer. At Daniel Perry MD, we believe mental wellness starts with compassionate, personalized care, and you deserve both.