HomeAnswersPsychiatryattention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD)

Could my focus problems be adult ADHD at age 27?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 27 years old, and I think I might have ADHD because I find it very difficult to concentrate on work. I keep forgetting things and getting distracted easily.

This has been happening for many years, but now it is affecting my job performance.

  1. How is ADHD diagnosed in adults?

  2. Are ADHD medications safe, and do they need to be taken lifelong?

  3. Can therapy or lifestyle changes help improve focus without medication?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Avinash Choudhary

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Avinash Choudhary is a dedicated psychiatry specialist committed to helping individuals improve their mental and emotional well-being through compassionate, evidence-based care. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, bipolar disorder, sleep problems, and other psychiatric concerns. Dr. Avinash Choudhary believes in providing a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. He focuses on personalized treatment plans, patient education, and long-term recovery, helping individuals build resilience and achieve a better quality of life.      

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

The brief history provided by you is somewhat suggestive of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). However, these symptoms can also be seen in depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions.

For a confirmed diagnosis of ADHD, five or more symptoms should be present in one or both domains: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v1.1, or adult ADHD self-report scale version 1.1) is a self-administered screening tool and may be useful for you.

Yes, ADHD medications are generally safe when prescribed and monitored appropriately. They are often required for a long duration, although ADHD symptoms may decrease in intensity over time.

Changes in lifestyle and behavioral therapy are also significant and very effective in controlling ADHD symptoms.

There are several strategies that can help you. Some helpful strategies include:

  1. Maintaining a regular daily routine.

  2. Avoiding substance use.

  3. Keeping a diary or planner to write down important tasks.

  4. Setting short-term, manageable goals.

  5. Using alarms and reminders for scheduled activities.

  6. Keeping routines structured but flexible.

  7. Using body-doubling techniques when working on tasks.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At June 25, 2026
Reviewed At July 1, 2026

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Avinash Choudhary is a dedicated psychiatry specialist committed to helping individuals improve their mental and emotional well-being through compassionate, evidence-based care. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, bipolar disorder, sleep problems, and other psychiatric concerns. Dr. Avinash Choudhary believes in providing a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. He focuses on personalized treatment plans, patient education, and long-term recovery, helping individuals build resilience and achieve a better quality of life.      

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Avinash Choudhary is a dedicated psychiatry specialist committed to helping individuals improve their mental and emotional well-being through compassionate, evidence-based care. He has experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, bipolar disorder, sleep problems, and other psychiatric concerns. Dr. Avinash Choudhary believes in providing a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. He focuses on personalized treatment plans, patient education, and long-term recovery, helping individuals build resilience and achieve a better quality of life.      

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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