ADHD Assessments
ADHD looks different for everyone. Recognising the signs is the first step toward support.
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, focus, self-regulation, and executive functioning. While it’s often associated with hyperactivity and impulsiveness, ADHD symptoms can vary significantly across age, gender and personality.
At Insightful Living Co. Psychology, we recognise that ADHD doesn’t look the same for everyone. Understanding these differences helps ensure accurate diagnosis—and the right support.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect focus, impulse control, time management and emotional regulation. It often presents differently in children and adults, and can often be overlooked or missed.
ADHD in Children
ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect focus, impulse control, time management and emotional regulation. It often presents differently in children and adults and can often be overlooked or missed.
Common signs in children may include:
- Difficulty sitting still or staying in one place
- Interrupting or speaking out of turn
- Difficulty following instructions or completing tasks
- Forgetting or losing things (e.g., school items, homework)
- Becoming easily distracted or appearing to daydream
- Difficulty regulating emotions (e.g., quick frustration or meltdowns)
How it may show up for different people:
Children who show more externalised symptoms, may present as being:
- High activity levels (“on the go” constantly)
- Impulsivity or acting without thinking
- Disruptive behaviour in school
Children who show more internalised symptoms, may present as being:
- Quiet inattention or daydreaming
- Trouble starting or finishing tasks
- Low confidence or anxiety linked to underperformance
- Being labelled as “chatty,” “emotional,” or “disorganised” rather than recognised as struggling
Children who have more internalised symptoms tend to be less disruptive and are then more likely to be missed or misdiagnosed with anxiety, for example, or identified later in their schooling or adult life with having ADHD.
ADHD in Adults
Many adults with ADHD grew up undiagnosed, especially if they were bright, quiet, or managed to “just get by” in school. As life becomes more demanding—with careers, families, or study—ADHD symptoms may become more obvious or harder to manage.
Common signs in adults may include:
- Difficulty with time management and organisation- e.g running late, paying bills late
- Chronic procrastination or trouble prioritising
- Forgetfulness e.g. missing deadlines, appointments
- Trouble focusing in meetings, conversations, or while reading
- Feeling easily overwhelmed by everyday tasks
- Mood swings, frustration, or emotional sensitivity
- Impulsive decision-making e.g. difficulty with saving money
- Difficulties with addictive behaviours- e.g. shopping, gambling, alcohol and other substances
- Difficulties with establishing healthy routines e.g. sleeping late, irregular eating habits, difficulties with organising lunch for work
Differences in how ADHD presents in men vs. women:
Difficulties due to ADHD symptoms can affect adults differently and often depend on what coping strategies have already been created and used. There can be some general differences between how men and women report their symptoms, however both men and women experience similar difficulties.
Men may be more likely to display:
- External impulsivity or restlessness
- Job-hopping or difficulty with authority
- Risk-taking behaviour
Women often report:
- Mental overload or burnout from juggling responsibilities
- Persistent feelings of underachievement or guilt
- High emotional reactivity
- Misdiagnoses with anxiety, depression, or borderline personality disorder before ADHD is considered
People with ADHD are often misdiagnosed with other mental health conditions because the symptoms of ADHD can overlap with or mimic those of anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. For example, chronic inattention, restlessness and emotional dysregulation may be seen as signs of anxiety or depression, especially when ADHD has not been considered as a possibility—particularly in adults or those who mask well, like many women. Additionally, years of coping with undiagnosed ADHD can lead to secondary mental health challenges, making it harder to identify the underlying neurodevelopmental condition. This misdiagnosis can delay access to appropriate treatment and support, often leaving individuals feeling frustrated, misunderstood and unsupported.
Many adults receive their diagnosis after their child is diagnosed—realising
they've had similar struggles for years.
Why you should get an ADHD assessment
What's involved?
Our ADHD assessments are thorough and include:
- Clinical interviews with the individual and/or parent/caregiver
- Behavioural checklists and questionnaires (e.g., Conners, DIVA-5)
- Review of developmental, academic and medical history
- Cognitive testing, where appropriate, to rule out other causes
- A detailed psychological report and tailored recommendations
- A feedback session to explain the results and explore support options
Who should consider an ADHD assessment?
- Children who are easily distracted, impulsive, disorganised, or struggling at school
- Children who are experiencing school refusal
- Young people who often feel overwhelmed and anxious because they can’t manage their study load in high school, TAFE or university
- Adults who have long experienced procrastination, restlessness or attention issues
- Adults who experience difficulties with managing ‘life admin’ - often forgetting to pay important bills, or get fines
- People who suspect ADHD but have never been formally assessed
Why is it helpful?
Getting a clear diagnosis can help explain lifelong challenges and open the door to effective support, whether through behavioural strategies, educational planning, workplace adjustments or medical treatment. Receiving an ADHD diagnosis can provide clarity and open pathways to understanding one's experiences more fully.
ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Its presentation varies not only by age and gender, but also by personality, coping strategies, and environment. That’s why our ADHD assessments are tailored and comprehensive—we take time to explore your unique experience.
Whether you’re concerned about your child, yourself, or both, our psychologists provide a safe space for assessment, understanding, and support.