ope BehavioralAttention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common diagnosis seen in children, however, this disorder does not disappear once they reach adulthood. Sometimes it is just in disguise and it can be what we consider to be “adult ADHD”. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention, there were about 15.5 million adults diagnosed with ADHD in 2023 (Staley BS et al., 2024).
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!As adults take on careers, studies, and social interactions, ADHD symptoms may create greater challenges for these individuals. Some of these challenges can include difficulty maintaining focus, disorganization, and internal restlessness. These can easily create frustrations when there are no coping skills or strategies in place to manage these symptoms. At Hope Behavioral Health, therapists like Shannon Flake can provide valuable care to individuals living with this diagnosis. She is a therapist who understands it beyond stereotypes and misconceptions. She also provides empathy and the guidance needed to support individuals facing challenges related to this disorder.
How does ADHD show up differently in adulthood?
ADHD in childhood may look like hyperactivity, impulsive behavior and inattentiveness. While some of these may persist into adulthood, specifically inattentiveness, common symptoms include: forgetfulness, disorganization, lack of following-through tasks, time-blindness, excessive speaking, and impatience. These can cause executive dysfunction, emotional overwhelm, and relationship strain. When adults do not recognize the reason for these symptoms they face and they do not have the tools or guidance to assist them through, they are more susceptible to self-critism and internalized shame. It can be easy to compare one’s way of doing things with another who does not share the same experiences as one with ADHD. These feelings of shame and inadequacy can further affect the way one responds to various life situations and one’s overall functioning.
Why does ADHD impact self-esteem and mental health?
There are several reasons why ADHD impacts one’s self-esteem and overall mental health. First, in many aspects of life, adults are expected to meet specific deadlines, achieve certain goals, and act in an organized manner. Surrounded by these environments and expectations, one may hold additional pressure to meet these expectations or compare one’s progress to another’s.This can lead to negative self-talk and form an unrealistic, degrading view of oneself. Two of the most common disorders that tend to co-occur with ADHD are anxiety and depression. This creates a greater need to apply the necessary coping strategies to function well holistically. Thankfully with Shannon’s experience and expertise, she can assist clients who find themselves in this state to rebuild their confidence.
What does ADHD-informed therapy look like?
An ADHD-informed therapy session differs from an average session in a few ways. First, because structure is proven to be beneficial for those with ADHD, each session would be structured so that the client knows what to expect. While structure is valued, the therapist is also flexible enough to meet the needs of the client in the present. The client would learn skills for coping, emotional regulation, and stress management. Coping skills may look like using time-management tools, establishing routines, or making beneficial adjustments to one’s lifestyle. Emotional regulation and stress management help reduce impulsivity, control reactions, and create inner balance. Sessions are client-paced, adjusting to each person’s needs.
How can working with the right therapist change my relationship with ADHD?
The purpose of therapy is not to “fix” one’s ADHD. Instead, the emphasis is creating a relationship of acceptance with ADHD. By receiving this care, and by incorporating the learned coping skills and management strategies, individuals with this diagnosis can approach life and themselves in a more positive manner. No one has to navigate ADHD alone. By connecting to a therapist like Shannon, you can take a step forward to confidence, support, and your overall well-being.
Why Choose Hope Behavioral Health in Kissimmee
At Hope Behavioral Health, we offer trauma-specialized, bilingual counseling designed to support individuals with ADHD who are navigating emotional overwhelm, past experiences, and everyday life challenges. ADHD is more than attention or focus — it can impact emotions, relationships, motivation, and self-confidence.
We provide compassionate care that respects your brain while helping you build skills, regulate emotions, and heal. We meet you with patience, structure, and understanding — never judgment.
Hope Behavioral Health offers faith-integrated support, honoring your spiritual values, culture, and beliefs in the healing process.
How to Get Started
- Schedule an appointment – Begin your pre-registration and schedule an appointment using our client portal. You can also call us at (407) 906-5214 for assistance.
- Meet With your Therapist – Once your appointment is scheduled, you will meet with your therapist to complete your initial session
- Begin Your Personalized Treatment Plan – Build focus and resilience with weekly support.
Conclusion
You don’t have to go too far to get the help you need. We are close to home! We are part of your community and readily available to meet your mental health needs. Ready for the next steps? Contact us today!
Author
- Written by Yaneily Diaz, BA with the assistance of AI.
- Medical Review Note: Reviewed by Lillianis J Cruz, LMHC, QS for clinical accuracy.
- Last Updated: 02/13/2026