Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) strikes in early childhood, often lasting through adulthood 1. People diagnosed with ADHD face significant challenges, often receiving pharmacological treatment or therapy for relief. It is also possible to have the burden of this disorder through childhood and adulthood without being diagnosed or treated. ADHD creates disadvantages for the sufferer in several realms, including education, career and social life.

Educational Disadvantages

Children and adults with ADHD have difficulty maintaining attention in class. It may be more difficult to follow through with the instructor's directions, which can negatively impact your grades. You may have trouble being still in class and find yourself straining to be still instead of concentrating on coursework. According to Children and Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, you are more likely to make careless mistakes on your schoolwork 1. You may also have a tendency to lose or forget important things, such as your homework, calculator or books.

Career Disadvantages

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Similar problems may affect your career. You may be forgetful and overlook important details on projects you have been assigned to complete. Your mind may wander, leaving you distracted in meetings. Organization may be impossible for you, leaving your superiors with a negative impression of your true capabilities. A career that requires long periods of concentration may be impractical for you.

Social Disadvantages

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder often carries social disadvantages outside the school and work settings 1. You may have a tendency to interrupt the conversation of others and make hurtful comments without thinking. You may do things before you have thought out the consequences, which can prove embarrassing and stigmatizing. Psychiatry News reported in January 2002 that parents rated children with ADHD as more likely to be bullied, less likely to have a high number of close friendships, and less likely to be interacting with a group of peers. They also noted deficits in a child's ability to get along with others and adapt to new circumstances.