What is Adult ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects approximately 4% of adults in the UK. The diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) include symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
In adults, hyperactivity might manifest as a constant sense of inner restlessness or being constantly busy or “on the go”. Impulsivity could present as impulsive behaviours that cause negative consequences in adult life. Inattention might include difficulty staying focused during conversations. Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD can have a major impact on education, relationships, self-esteem, mental health, work performance and overall quality of life.
Potential Signs of ADHD in adults:
• Difficulty paying attention, or staying focused on tasks
• Impulsivity or difficulty controlling behaviour
• Hyperactivity or restlessness
• Disorganisation or problems with time management
• Poor planning skills
• Low self-esteem, lack of self-trust
• Difficulty regulating emotions or managing stress
What is ‘High Functioning’ ADHD?
Typical symptoms of ADHD in high performing adults include procrastination, taking on too much, feeling overwhelmed, imposter syndrome, anxiety and rejection sensitivity. It is a misconception that a person cannot have ADHD and perform well academically or in their career. Many high achievers with ADHD compensate for their symptoms in ways that may cause burnout and difficulties in their personal lives in the longer term. If you suspect you have “high functioning” ADHD, please remember that you deserve support as much as anyone else, no matter your external achievements or success.
ADHD in Women
Women are often diagnosed with ADHD later in life, and this can mean that they’ve had years - sometimes decades - without support or understanding of their condition. Being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world is stressful. Masking or hiding ADHD symptoms is a common coping strategy for girls and women, and can lead to perfectionism, a result of over-compensating for self-perceived flaws. This in turn can lead to chronic stress and burnout.
What is ADHD masking?
Women and other adults with undiagnosed ADHD often develop coping strategies that mask ADHD symptoms, making ADHD more challenging to detect. Perhaps you hyper focus on tasks you find interesting or rewarding, yet struggle to focus on other tasks that are less interesting to you. Or maybe you rely heavily on calendars, reminders, and productivity apps to manage time and stay organised. Recognising and understanding these kinds of compensatory strategies is a core part of the comprehensive ADHD assessment that I offer.
The Emotional Burden of Undiagnosed ADHD
The emotional burden of undiagnosed ADHD for women can be devastating and may include negative self talk, perfectionism, and internalised shame alongside other ADHD symptoms. Women deserve to receive the right assessment, diagnosis and support they need to feel in control of their lives and wellbeing. This is why I have a special interest in ADHD assessment in women. If you are a woman who suspects you may have undiagnosed ADHD and are interested in an assessment, please get in touch and I’d be happy to help.
Book Your ADHD Assessment Online Today
You can go ahead and book your initial ADHD screening appointment by clicking on the button below. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have about working with me - feel free to send me message through my Contact Page.