Many adults are diagnosed with ADHD in their 30s, 40s or later. Often they’ve spent years being described as disorganised, lazy or anxious. Here’s why ADHD is so often missed.
The picture people expect
For a long time ADHD was thought of as a condition of hyperactive young boys. Children who were quiet, dreamy or well behaved at school, including many girls, were less likely to be noticed, even if they were struggling inside.
Coping until you can’t
Bright children often find ways to manage: last-minute effort, lists everywhere, a supportive parent. Those strategies can stop working when life gets more complicated, for example at university, in a demanding job, or after having children.
Mistaken for something else
ADHD often comes with anxiety, low mood, sleep problems or difficulties with alcohol or drugs. These can be treated without anyone noticing the ADHD underneath. Some women notice their symptoms change around periods, pregnancy or perimenopause.
What a good assessment looks for
An adult assessment looks at your life now and when you were a child. ADHD symptoms must have started in childhood, even if nobody noticed at the time. That’s why we ask for the view of someone who knew you then, or for old school reports.
We also look carefully at other conditions that can look like ADHD, so that you get the right answer, whatever it is.
Is it worth being assessed later in life?
Many people tell us that a diagnosis, even late, helped them understand themselves and stop blaming themselves. It can also open the door to treatment, workplace adjustments and support.