What is ADHD?
And do I need to get an ADHD diagnosis later in life?
Defining ADHD
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting attention regulation, impulse control, and hyperactivity.
While commonly diagnosed in childhood, awareness of adult ADHD has surged globally, raising questions about its causes, treatment impacts, and societal trends. This is a comprehensive analysis addressing your core questions.
Causes of ADHD
Research indicates ADHD stems from a mix of genetic and environmental factors:
- Genetics: 60–70% heritability, with specific genes linked to dopamine regulation.
- Brain structure/function: Differences in prefrontal cortex activity and neurotransmitter systems (dopamine/norepinephrine).
- Environmental factors: Maternal smoking/alcohol use during pregnancy, premature birth, and childhood trauma (though trauma alone doesn’t cause ADHD).
Treatment Options
ADHD management typically combines medication and behavioral strategies:
- Medication:
- Stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamines): Improve focus and impulse control by enhancing dopamine activity. Safe long-term when properly dosed.
- Non-stimulants (e.g., atomoxetine): Used if stimulants cause side effects like insomnia or appetite loss.
- Myth-buster: Properly dosed ADHD medication does not alter personality. Reports of emotional “flattening” usually indicate incorrect dosing.
- Therapies:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps develop organisational skills and emotional regulation.
- Mindfulness/Meditation: Reduces impulsivity and improves focus.
- Workplace/Educational Adjustments: Task prioritisation tools and flexible deadlines.
Consequences of Untreated ADHD
Untreated ADHD often leads to cascading challenges:
- Mental health: 60% higher risk of depression/anxiety; low self-esteem from chronic underachievement.
- Relationships: Impulsivity and distractibility strain marriages and friendships.
- Career instability: Poor time management and organisation contribute to job loss.
- Physical health: Higher accident rates (e.g., car crashes) and substance misuse.
- Long-term risks: Some studies link untreated ADHD to earlier mortality (13-year reduction) and increased dementia risk.
Why are adults being diagnosed with ADHD more?
Diagnoses in adults have risen 450% in Australia since 2018. Key drivers include:
- Increased Awareness: Social media (e.g., TikTok) and advocacy have destigmatised ADHD, helping adults recognise lifelong struggles.
- Pandemic Effects: Remote work/school exposed attention challenges, prompting evaluations.
- Historic Underdiagnosis: Women and girls were overlooked due to subtler inattentive symptoms (vs. hyperactivity).
- Diagnostic Broadening: Criteria now recognise adult presentations (e.g., internal restlessness vs. physical hyperactivity).

“Isn’t a Mid-Life Diagnosis Too Late?”
No. Many adults develop coping mechanisms that mask ADHD until life demands (e.g., career pressure, parenting) overwhelm them. Diagnosis often brings relief:
- Validation: Explains lifelong struggles (e.g., chronic procrastination, forgetfulness) .
- Effective Treatment: Medication and therapy improve focus and emotional regulation, even in older adults.
- Improved Outcomes: Late-diagnosed adults report better relationships and job performance post-treatment.
Key Takeaways
- ADHD is not a “late-onset” condition but often undetected until adulthood.
- Treatment focuses on symptom management, not personality alteration.
- Rising diagnoses reflect societal progress, though profit-driven practices exist.
- It’s never too late to seek evaluation: Mid-life diagnoses can dramatically improve quality of life 585.
For those questioning their experiences, consulting a psychiatrist specializing in adult ADHD is critical. Rigorous assessments (e.g., clinical interviews, childhood history reviews) ensure accurate diagnosis 574.
ADHD Assessments
Dr Kate Schilling
Cynicism Check: While pharmaceutical profits and telehealth clinics have raised concerns, most experts attribute the rise to reduced stigma and better diagnostic practices—not overdiagnosis. However, private clinics charging up to $3,000 for assessments warrant scrutiny.
Practitioners such as our own Dr Kate Schilling is available to discuss should you suspect you have had (or are having) some ADHD symptoms.
Treatment plans are tailored to the individual, not one-size-fits-all.