When talking about ADHD, a lot of people believe it’s mainly a childhood condition. However, research and clinical experience show that its symptoms can often persist into adulthood.
The gap between what research shows and common misconceptions about the disorder, has reinforced a series of myths about ADHD in adulthood. Such myths not only delay diagnosis but can also lead to discrimination, for example, labeling adults with ADHD as lazy or disorganized and preventing them from seeking the support they need.
Today, we want to look at (and debunk!) some of the most common myths around ADHD in adulthood.
1. Isn’t ADHD just for kids?
The idea that ADHD can only affect children and teenagers is as common as it is incorrect. Research suggests that up to half of the cases diagnosed in childhood or adolescence continue to show ADHD symptoms in adulthood. Although the general prevalence is of around 2.5%, some research suggests the rate could be higher, with many undetected cases due to the lack of sensitive tests to diagnose the disorder later in life (1) (2).
Underdiagnosis and the lack of awareness about how ADHD manifests in adulthood, has led to an underrepresentation of affected individuals and limited research in the field, leaving adults with ADHD often feeling misunderstood and helpless, and healthcare professionals without the tools they need to provide adequate support.
2. ADHD in women? You must be mistaken.
ADHD is not defined by gender. Although the common ADHD stereotype is a restless boy who can’t finish his homework, many girls (and women!) experience ADHD symptoms from childhood through adulthood.
The underrepresentation and diagnosis of the female population with ADHD symptoms is often explained as an underreferral issue due to girls displaying less hyperactivity and disruptive behavioral symptoms during childhood (2) (4). These gender differences tend to persist into adulthood, with women experiencing lower self-esteem, poorer interpersonal relationships, and a greater risk of depression and other affective disorders compared to men (4).
3. If you have ADHD you can’t focus at all…
The term "hyperfocus" might seem like the opposite of what we usually associate with ADHD. But is it really? The core challenge in ADHD is more complex than simply "not being able to concentrate." It’s actually about difficulty regulating attentional focus (6), with "regulating" being the key word here!
Adults with ADHD can often sustain long periods of focus and attention on a specific task or topic (hyperfocus), particularly when it is perceived as highly rewarding or less aversive (e.g., compared to academic or work-related tasks), often leading to a distorted perception of time and unawareness of the surroundings (5) (6).
If any of these traits and struggles resonate with you, remember that ADHD is a specific neurodevelopmental condition that requires assessment by a qualified professional. Having one or more of these traits doesn’t mean you have ADHD, but we encourage you to reach out to a specialist for proper evaluation and support.
Whether you're here to focus better, calm your mind, or just feel a little more in control, we’re here to support you. One game at a time.
