If you’re a veteran or active-duty military member struggling with focus, organization, or impulsivity, you may be wondering if ADHD in adulthood could be the reason. As a psychiatrist who has worked with military members since 2003—including 13 years as the lead psychiatrist for an Air Force base—I’ve seen how our understanding of ADHD in veterans has changed dramatically over time.
The Military’s Changing View of ADHD
When I began working in military mental health, the prevailing belief was that ADHD only affected children. Adult ADHD was rarely acknowledged. Later, even when it was recognized, it was often dismissed as not being “serious enough” to cause problems.
Eventually, military policy began to restrict those with ADHD from remaining in service, especially if they were taking medication, due to concerns about deployability. However, over time, military doctors came to understand that ADHD is common and manageable—even in high-demand environments like the armed forces.
Why ADHD is Common Among Military Members
From my experience, the military environment naturally attracts people with ADHD. The structure, physical activity, and fast pace provide the kind of stimulation and routine that many people with ADHD thrive in.
There’s also a strong genetic link to ADHD. Since ADHD runs in families, many service members have a parent—often a veteran themselves—who had undiagnosed ADHD. The cycle continues, often unnoticed, until symptoms become harder to ignore.
When PTSD, TBI, or Depression Make ADHD Symptoms Worse
Many veterans come to us saying, “I used to be able to manage, but now I just can’t keep up.” That’s often because co-occurring conditions like PTSD, traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, or depression can make ADHD symptoms worse. These issues can disrupt the coping mechanisms that once worked, making focus, organization, and follow-through even more difficult.
Effective, Personalized ADHD Treatment for Veterans
We offer:
- Accurate ADHD evaluations for veterans
- Safe and effective ADHD medications with low side effects
- ADHD coaching and counseling to build lifelong coping skills
- Ongoing support to help you reach your goals—whether you’re in service, transitioning out, or adjusting to civilian life
In many cases, combining medication with behavioral strategies leads to the best long-term results. In fact, many of our patients are able to reduce their reliance on medication over time.
Are You a Veteran Wondering If You Have ADHD?
If you’ve always struggled with attention, restlessness, or disorganization—or if recent stress, trauma, or mood changes have made things worse—you’re not alone. ADHD in adults is real, treatable, and more common than you think—especially among veterans.
Contact us today to find out if you qualify for a free ADHD evaluation and get started with personalized ADHD treatment for veterans. We’re here to help you take back control and thrive.
