What Is ADHD in Adults?

Why Attention Deficit Is a Misleading Name

Most adults Google ADHD after years of thinking:

  • “Why can’t I stay consistent?”

  • “Why am I smart but struggling?”

  • “Why am I exhausted just trying to function?”

ADHD is not about attention deficit.
It’s about attention regulation.



What Is ADHD?

ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting:

  • Focus regulation

  • Impulse control

  • Emotional regulation

  • Motivation and dopamine processing

ADHD brains are interest-driven, not priority-driven.

Famous ADHD Adult: Richard Branson

Richard Branson has openly discussed his ADHD and dyslexia.

How he managed:

  • Delegated details

  • Focused on big ideas

  • Built systems around his brain

ADHD didn’t stop success — misunderstanding ADHD does.

Is ADHD a Sickness? Can It Be Cured?

No.

ADHD:

  • Is genetic

  • Exists across the lifespan

  • Is not caused by laziness or phones

Medication doesn’t “cure” ADHD — it supports regulation.

The goal is management, not elimination.

ADHD Statistics (Diagnosed vs Undiagnosed)

  • Around 5–7% of adults globally have ADHD

  • Up to 70% of adults remain undiagnosed

  • Women are especially underdiagnosed

In Singapore:

  • Adult ADHD diagnosis is rising

  • Many were labelled “lazy” or “careless” growing up

Emotional Factors in ADHD Adults

  • Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)

  • Shame from years of criticism

  • Emotional intensity

  • Burnout cycles

  • Anxiety from masking

ADHD is emotional — not just behavioural.

Why Neurotypicals Struggle to Understand ADHD

Neurotypical brains:

  • Generate motivation from importance

  • Feel reward from completion

ADHD brains:

  • Need interest, novelty, urgency, or emotion

This leads to judgment:

“If you cared, you’d do it.”

But caring is not the problem.
Dopamine is.


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