Common Questions About ADHD, Answered.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is one of the most talked-about topics in mental health right now — and for good reason. More adults are being diagnosed later in life, and many are searching for answers to questions they’ve carried for years.
As a counsellor, I hear the same questions come up again and again in sessions.
Here are some of the most common, answered in a way that I hope feels both practical and reassuring.
1. What exactly is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurological difference in the way your brain processes information, focus, and energy.
It’s not about laziness or a lack of intelligence — it’s about how your brain is wired. People with ADHD may struggle with attention, organisation, and impulse control, but they also often have creativity, problem-solving skills, and high energy when interested in something.
2. Can adults have ADHD?
Yes — absolutely. Many people reach adulthood without knowing they have ADHD because they developed coping strategies or were misdiagnosed.
It’s common for people to realise they might have ADHD when their life circumstances change — for example, starting a new job, becoming a parent, or managing more responsibilities.
3. What are the signs of ADHD in adults?
Some signs can include:
Difficulty staying focused, especially on boring or repetitive tasks
Forgetting appointments or important details
Feeling overwhelmed by daily routines
Starting projects with enthusiasm but struggling to finish them
Restlessness or an “always on” brain
Emotional ups and downs
However, you don’t have to tick all the boxes, and symptoms can show up differently for each individual.
For some, ADHD might look like constant movement and fast speech; for others, it may be quiet daydreaming or a tendency to get lost in thoughts.
(If you’re reading this list and nodding along, you’re not alone — many clients come in saying “This is me.”)
4. How is ADHD diagnosed?
In Australia, ADHD diagnosis usually involves:
A detailed personal history
Questionnaires or rating scales
Sometimes input from family or people who know you well
For adults, it’s often done by a psychologist or psychiatrist. Your GP can usually refer you to the right professional.
5. Can ADHD be treated without medication?
Yes. While medication can be helpful for many, it’s not the only option. Non-medication strategies can include:
Setting up visual reminders and planners
Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps
Using timers or apps for focus
Mindfulness and grounding exercises
Counselling or coaching for accountability and emotional support
6. How can counselling help with ADHD?
Counselling can:
Help you understand your ADHD and reduce self-blame
Support you in building routines and systems that work for you
Teach emotional regulation skills
Boost self-esteem
Give you a safe space to explore challenges without judgement
7. What if I try counselling and it doesn’t feel right?
That’s completely normal.
Not every counsellor will be the right fit — and that’s okay. It doesn’t mean counselling doesn’t work; it just means you’re still looking for the space where you feel supported and understood.
Final Thought
ADHD isn’t a personal failure — it’s a different way of thinking, feeling, and experiencing the world.
With the right support, strategies, and understanding, people with ADHD can thrive.
If you have questions about ADHD or think it might be part of your life, I offer online counselling sessions to help you explore it in a supportive and non-judgemental space.
