Adult ADHD & Psychology

Psychology and Adult Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD)

By David Hennessy, Clinical Psychologist 

Living with a Racing Mind: Understanding Adult ADHD

Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that often persists into adulthood, despite being commonly associated with children. Many adults struggle with symptoms for decades before discovering that ADHD is the underlying issue. For those affected, the realisation can be life-changing and provide both understanding and direction for meaningful change.

Recognising the Signs of Adult ADHD

ADHD in adults presents differently than in childhood. Hyperactivity may lessen, but difficulties with focus, organisation, and emotional regulation can persist or worsen.

Common features include:

• Inattention: Easily distracted, forgetful, or frequently misplacing items

• Hyperactivity: Feeling restless, fidgety, or having difficulty relaxing

• Impulsivity: Interrupting others, rushing decisions, or acting without thinking

• Disorganisation: Difficulty planning, following through, or prioritising tasks

These challenges often coexist with strengths such as creativity, intuition, empathy, and high energy, though many adults with ADHD carry years of self-doubt due to repeated misunderstandings of their behaviours and needs.

The Emotional Impact of Unrecognised ADHD

Without understanding their condition, many adults internalise the consequences of their symptoms as personal failings. This can lead to:

• Chronic low self-esteem

• Burnout from overcompensating

• Anxiety, depression, or emotional dysregulation

• Difficulties in employment or relationships

It’s not uncommon for clients to say, “I thought I was just lazy” or “I didn’t know other people didn’t feel this overwhelmed all the time.” The diagnosis offers more than a label—it can offer relief and a starting point for tailored support.

Evidence-Based Treatment and Support

ADHD is manageable with the right supports in place. A comprehensive treatment plan might include:

Psychological Therapies

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) adapted for ADHD can assist with time management, task initiation, and emotion regulation.

• Mindfulness-based therapies have been shown to reduce impulsivity and increase attention control [1].

Medication

• Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate and dexamphetamine are considered first-line treatment [2].

• Non-stimulant medications, including atomoxetine and guanfacine, may also be effective [3].

• ADHD medication must be prescribed and monitored by a psychiatrist, who will assess the risks and benefits, dosage, and response over time. While psychologists do not prescribe, we often work in collaboration with GPs and psychiatrists to ensure holistic care.

Practical Supports

• External reminders, routines, and task management strategies are useful tools.

• Coaching or occupational therapy may assist in daily functioning.

• Psychoeducation for individuals and families supports understanding and acceptance [4].

Neurodiversity, Not Deficiency

The term “neurodivergent” reminds us that ADHD is a variation in brain functioning—not a character flaw. Understanding ADHD as a form of neurodiversity shifts the narrative from disorder to difference, allowing for self-acceptance and adaptive support strategies. This doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties, but rather approaching them with compassion and skill.

Enquiries / Appointments

👉 Contact Hennessy Clinical Psychology to learn more or book an appointment.

References

1. Cairncross, M., & Miller, C. J. (2020). The effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapies for ADHD: A meta-analytic review. Journal of Attention Disorders, 24(5), 627–643. https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054716647478

2. Bolea-Alamanac, B. M., Nutt, D. J., Adamou, M., Asherson, P., Bazire, S., Coghill, D., … & Young, S. J. (2014). Evidence-based guidelines for the pharmacological management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: Update on recommendations from the British Association for Psychopharmacology. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 28(3), 179–203. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881113519509

3. Caye, A., Swanson, J., Thapar, A., Sibley, M. H., Arseneault, L., Banaschewski, T., … & Rohde, L. A. (2016). Life-span studies of ADHD—contributions from the MTA, IMpACT and IMAGE projects. Molecular Psychiatry, 21, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1038/mp.2015.108

4. Ramsay, J. R., & Rostain, A. L. (2016). The adult ADHD toolkit: Using CBT to facilitate coping inside and out. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315734130