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ADHD in adulthood: The hidden struggles and untold truths
Author: Kayleigh-Ann Clegg, Clinical Psychologist | Janet Pun, Psychological Health and Safety Advisor
ADHD is one of the most misunderstood and chronic conditions that often goes undiagnosed for years. Approximately 3% of adults worldwide live with it in some form. Adults newly diagnosed with ADHD didn’t just develop it, they’ve typically had it their entire lives. Many have successfully managed, masked, or compensated for the symptoms with a variety of strategies and systems they may not even realize they’ve been using.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people focus, organize, and regulate their impulses and behaviour. It’s not just a childhood disorder; ADHD persists into adulthood for many, with symptoms evolving over time.
Types of ADHD
- Predominantly Inattentive
- Struggles with staying on task, organizing, and completing projects.
- Subtle signs like missing details or losing track of daily tasks.
- Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive
- High energy, restlessness, and impulsive actions.
- More noticeable in children; and can decrease with age.
- Combined
- Mix of inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.
- Most common type diagnosed in children.
The ‘Quiet Epidemic’ of ADHD underdiagnosis
Members of the Starling community diagnosed with ADHD often experience a mix of emotions. Many feel relieved to finally understand their experiences, but they also grapple with a sense of loss and wonder how their lives might have been different if they had been diagnosed earlier.
Common myths about ADHD
Despite increased awareness, many misconceptions about ADHD persist. Let’s clear up a few.
- Just a childhood disorder
- ADHD evolves but rarely disappears. It impacts work, relationships, and daily life in adults.
- Excuse for laziness
- ADHD affects executive functioning, not effort. People with ADHD often work harder to complete tasks.
- All ADHD is hyperactive
- Inattentive ADHD, involving forgetfulness and trouble focusing, is more common in adults and often missed in women.
ADHD Management Strategies
Living with ADHD isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about creating systems that work for your unique brain. Here are some evidence-based strategies to help, including cognitive behavioural therapy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Helps understand emotional influences.
- Strengthens positive neural pathways.
Build a Routine
- Helps understand emotional influences.
- Strengthens positive neural pathways.
Minimize Distractions
- Turn off notifications and focus on one task at a time.
- Use noise-canceling tools (e.g. headphones, white noise machines)
Develop Emotional Coping Strategies
- Practice mindfulness to reduce impulsive reactions and manage stress.
- Reframe thoughts: instead of “This will take forever,” try “I can work on this for 10 minutes.”
To better understand and manage ADHD, a proper assessment from a licensed mental health care provider is key for an in-depth ADHD evaluation. Review your benefits booklet to determine your coverage for a licensed mental healthcare provider.
Interested in CBT strategies? CBT is recognized as the gold standard of talk therapy. Much like a fitness coach strengthens muscles, CBT strengthens neural pathways that foster positive thinking and behavior--a personal trainer for your mind. Visit member.starlingminds.com to access the Starling Mental Fitness Program.