About 50% of children with ADHD will have it as an adult. The 3 main elements are inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. These problems are due to abnormalities in several brain pathways including one from the basal ganglia to the prefrontal lobes. This results in performance problems at school or work, relationships, and activity requiring extended focus especially if the activity is boring. Other problems include: accidents, procrastination, irritability, getting fired, and other such difficulties. Treatment usually includes medication such as stimulants or other medications that raise norepinephrine and dopamine. Therapy can be quite helpful to learn coping strategies, overcome negative thoughts ("Why bother!"), and suggest ways to mend broken relationships.
