Common ADHD Questions
Welcome to our resource hub dedicated to answering common questions about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Whether you’ve recently received a diagnosis, are questioning if you or a loved one might have ADHD, or are simply looking to better understand this complex neurodevelopmental condition, this page is designed to provide clear, concise, and supportive information. We have organized these questions logically to help you navigate the basics, dispel myths, understand symptoms, and explore avenues for support.
Below, you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about life with ADHD.
Definitions and Basics of ADHD
Understanding ADHD starts with defining what it actually is—and what it isn’t. This section covers the fundamental concepts, differentiating between older terms and modern understanding, and explaining the core mechanisms of the ADHD brain.
- What actually is ADHD? (Is it different from ADD?)An overview of ADHD as a neurodevelopmental condition affecting executive functions, and clarifying why the term “ADD” is no longer officially used.
- What are the three types of ADHD?Defining the distinctions between Predominantly Inattentive, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive, and Combined presentations.
- What is executive dysfunction?Explaining the core challenges ADHD brains face with organizing, prioritizing, starting tasks, and regulating emotional responses.
Common ADHD Misconceptions
ADHD is surrounded by significant stigma and misunderstanding. These myths can delay diagnosis and damage self-esteem. In this section, we address and debunk the most pervasive lies about the condition to foster genuine understanding.
- Is ADHD just an excuse for laziness or a lack of motivation?Breaking down why an inability to “just do it” is a neurological issue related to dopamine and brain stimulation, not a moral failing or character flaw.
- Do people “grow out” of ADHD as adults?Addressing the myth that ADHD is only a childhood disorder and explaining how symptoms often evolve, rather than disappear, in adulthood.
- Isn’t everyone “a little bit ADHD” sometimes?Clarifying the difference between occasional distraction, which everyone experiences, and the chronic, impairment-causing symptoms required for an ADHD diagnosis.
Identification, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
Recognizing ADHD goes beyond seeing hyperactivity. This section dives into the diagnostic process for both adults and children, and highlights key experiences that are often overlooked in standard symptom lists.
- How do I know if I have ADHD as an adult? (Can adults be diagnosed?)A guide to how adult ADHD presents differently than childhood ADHD, and the steps involved in seeking a professional evaluation later in life.
- What is “ADHD Paralysis” and why can’t I start tasks?Exploring the overwhelming feeling of being mentally frozen when faced with tasks, and the science of task initiation hurdles.
- What is “Time Blindness”?Understanding the common ADHD struggle to perceive the passage of time accurately, leading to chronic lateness and difficulty planning.
Social and Emotional Aspects of ADHD
ADHD deeply impacts how we feel, react, and relate to others. This section explores the emotional regulation challenges and social dynamics that accompany the condition.
- What is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)?Defining the intense, often physical emotional pain triggered by perceived rejection, criticism, or failure that is common in ADHD.
- How does ADHD affect relationships and friendships?Discussing common relational hurdles, such as interrupting, forgetting important details, or emotional impulsivity, and how to navigate them.
- Why do I hyperfocus on some things but can’t focus on others? Explaining the paradox of ADHD attention—it’s not a deficit of attention, but a difficulty in regulating where attention is directed.
Management, Treatment, and Support
- While ADHD presents challenges, there are numerous ways to manage symptoms and thrive. This section looks at the varied approaches to support, from medication to behavioral strategies and lifestyle adjustments.
- How can I support a neurodivergent employee or colleague with ADHD?Tips for creating neuroinclusive workplaces, focusing on reasonable accommodations, clear communication, and focusing on strengths rather than deficits.
- What are the most effective treatments for ADHD? (Medication vs. Therapy)An overview of the multimodal treatment approach, including stimulant and non-stimulant medications, CBT therapy, and ADHD coaching.
- What are practical coping mechanisms for daily life? (Body Doubling, etc.)Actionable strategies for managing a household, work, and finances, including concepts like “body doubling,” gamification, and externalizing executive functions.
Grid
Treatment & Management – Real-World Hacks for Organization and Bedtime
Taming the Chaos: Real-World Hacks for Organization and Bedtime If you live in a neurodivergent household, you likely have two …
Treatment & Management – Finding the Treatment That Works
The ADHD Toolkit: Finding the Treatment That Works (Medication, Therapy & More) When you or your child gets an ADHD …
Treatment & Management – Are Stimulants Safe for Kids?
The Big Fear: Are Stimulants Safe for Kids? (And Will They Get High?) There is no decision more agonizing for …
Symptoms & Signs -How ADHD Signs Change From Childhood to Adulthood
The Shapeshifter: How ADHD Signs Change From Childhood to Adulthood One of the biggest myths about ADHD is that you …
Symptoms & Signs – Why ADHD Brains Blurt Things Out
The Interruption Instinct: Why ADHD Brains Blurt Things Out Of all the traits associated with ADHD, this is the one …
Symptoms & Signs – Are ADHD and Autism Related?
The Cousin Conditions: Are ADHD and Autism Related? If you spend any time in neurodivergent spaces, you will start to …
Relationships – An Honest Look at Neurotypical & ADHD Relationships
Wired Differently, Loving Deeply: An Honest Look at Neurotypical & ADHD Relationships Let’s start with the truth: falling in love …
Parenting – An Honest Guide for Parents of Neurodivergent Teens
The ADHD Pressure Cooker: An Honest Guide for Parents of Neurodivergent Teens If you are a neurotypical (NT) parent raising …
Misconception – Common ADHD Misconceptions
Ten Common ADHD Misconception 1. ADHD isn’t real / It’s just an excuse for laziness. Reality: ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is …
Impact & Co-occurring Issues – The Real Consequences of Untreated ADHD
The Ripple Effect: The Real Consequences of Untreated ADHD A common criticism of the modern rise in diagnoses is: “Why …
Impact & Co-occurring Issues – Is ADHD a Learning Disability?
The Label Confusion: Is ADHD a Learning Disability? If you have a child who is failing math, forgetting homework, and …
Impact & Co-occurring Issues – How ADHD Impacts Love and Money
The Adult Toll: How ADHD Impacts Love and Money When people think of ADHD, they think of lost homework. They …
Impact & Co-occurring Issues – ADHD Risks in the Teen Years
The Danger Zone: ADHD Risks in the Teen Years (Driving & Drugs) If the toddler years are physically exhausting, the …
Fundamentals – ADHD
Understanding Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain manages executive functions, …
Diagnosis & Causes – Why Does It Seem Like Every Kid Has ADHD Now?
The “Epidemic” Myth: Why Does It Seem Like Every Kid Has ADHD Now? If you talk to your grandparents, they …
Diagnosis & Causes – Is ADHD Hereditary?
The Family Link: Is ADHD Hereditary? There is a very common scene in the office of an ADHD specialist. They …
Diagnosis & Causes – How is ADHD Actually Diagnosed?
The Missing X-Ray: How is ADHD Actually Diagnosed? If you suspect you have diabetes, you take a blood test. If …
Diagnosis & Causes – Can Toddlers Have ADHD?
Can Toddlers Have ADHD? The “Too Young to Tell” Dilemma If you are the parent of a toddler who climbs …