How Common Is Adult ADHD? What the Latest Research Really Says

jcorbett95
Sep 18
3 min read

Do you or your child struggle with focus, organisation, or restlessness? ADHD isn’t just about distraction in the classroom—it can affect school, work, relationships, and self-esteem. And while most people think of it as a childhood condition, research shows that adult ADHD is much more common than many realize.

As a Registered Psychologist, I have access to sophisticated assessment and diagnostic tools that provide a comprehensive picture of your strengths, challenges, and the best way forward. My role isn’t just to confirm whether ADHD is present, but to help you understand how your unique mind works—and how you can thrive.

What is Adult ADHD?

In adults, ADHD often looks different than the stereotype of the restless child:

Mental restlessness rather than overt hyperactivity
Difficulty with organisation, time management, or follow-through
Hyperfocus; staying on one specific task longer than is helpful.
Trouble staying focused on tasks that feel “boring” or overwhelming
Impulsivity in decisions or spending
Emotional ups and downs that feel hard to regulate

These challenges can silently undermine confidence and performance, even in people who are otherwise high-achieving.

How Common Is It?

The latest research suggests that 5–7% of adults live with ADHD. Many are never formally diagnosed, often because their symptoms are misunderstood or hidden by coping strategies. Women, older adults, and those with primarily inattentive symptoms are particularly likely to be overlooked.

Why ADHD in Adults Often Goes Unrecognized

Symptoms overlap with anxiety or depression.
Coping strategies (such as overworking or perfectionism) hide the underlying issues.
Gender bias leads to inattentive symptoms in women being brushed off as “stress” or “daydreaming.”
Self-blame keeps many from seeking help: people think they should just “try harder.”

That’s why a specialist assessment is so valuable—it cuts through confusion and identifies what’s really going on and helps formulate a treatment plan.

The Cost of Untreated ADHD

Left unaddressed, ADHD can have ripple effects:

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Chronic stress and burnout
Missed potential at work or school
Lower self-esteem and confidence
Higher risk of anxiety and depression

The good news? It doesn’t have to stay this way. With the right support, many people regain control, rebuild confidence, and discover strengths they never fully recognized.

My Approach: Going Beyond Labels

What makes my practice unique is that I don’t just give you a diagnosis—I help you see the full picture:

Comprehensive assessment using evidence-based tools
Clear feedback that explains your cognitive and emotional profile
Personalized recommendations for treatment, strategies, and next steps
Referral to a psychiatrist if medication warranted.
Developing a non-medication treatment plan to assist with planning, organising your schedule, minimising distractions and tackling procrastination.
Ongoing support to help you apply tools in real life

Every assessment is designed not only to clarify whether ADHD is present, but also to identify your strengths. Many clients are surprised at how validating and empowering this process can be.

When to Seek Support

If you often find yourself thinking:

“Why do I always start strong but struggle to finish?”
“Why does everyone else seem more organised?”
“Why do I keep forgetting things, even when I’m trying hard?”

…then it might be time to reach out. You don’t need to wait until things feel unmanageable. An assessment can be the turning point that brings clarity and a clear path forward.

Adult ADHD is common, real, and often misunderstood. But with the right assessment and support, it can be managed—and even become a source of strength.

As a Registered Psychologist, I combine advanced diagnostic tools with practical, compassionate guidance to help clients understand their minds, reduce frustration, and build confidence. If you or your child are struggling with focus, organisation, or restlessness, I can help you uncover the “why” and map out the “what next.”