Also known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and in Māori, Aroreretini - meaning 'attention goes to many things'.

The exact cause of ADHD isn’t known. It's found in about 5 to 7% of people from all ethnicities. It’s likely to be a genetic condition, which runs in families. If one parent has ADHD there’s a 70 to 80% chance of a child having it. Research shows that ADHD probably results from the combination of several genes interacting with environmental risk factors.

These risk factors are thought to include:

• brain injury

• exposure to alcohol or nicotine before birth

• premature birth

• epilepsy

• exposure to toxins such as lead in childhood.

People with ADHD have differences in the size, connections and neurotransmitters (chemical messengers between brain cells) in parts of their brains compared to people without ADHD.

ADHD may also be related to other neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, as well as learning disabilities like dyslexia. 

ADHD can affect nearly every aspect of adult life - work, relationships, routines, and mental health.

Many adults with ADHD are insightful, capable, and driven - but still feel like they’re constantly falling behind, missing the mark, or struggling to keep up.

Over time, these challenges can contribute to burnout, low self-esteem, and chronic stress - especially when the condition is misunderstood or unsupported.

Core Symptoms of Adult ADHD

Inattention (problems with staying focused)
Examples include:

• Difficulty concentrating for long periods, especially on uninteresting tasks

• Hyperfocus on specific interests, with trouble shifting attention

• Being easily distracted or forgetful, frequently misplacing things

• Poor attention to detail

• Disorganisation (e.g., struggles with calendars or reminders)

• Losing things often

• Delaying or avoiding tasks

• Inconsistent work habits

• Forgetting appointments

• Time blindness or poor time management

• Daydreaming or mentally switching off during meetings

You might focus well on things you enjoy—but lose focus quickly when you're bored or overwhelmed.

Hyperactivity (feeling mentally or physically restless)
In adults, hyperactivity may show up as:

• A sense of inner restlessness or agitation

• Trouble sitting still or relaxing

• Constant talking or interrupting

• Racing thoughts

• Difficulty winding down or falling asleep

Hyperactivity in adults is often less about physical movement and more about feeling constantly “on” or overstimulated.

Impulsivity (acting without thinking)
Examples of impulsive symptoms include:

• Starting projects but not finishing them

• Interrupting others in conversation

• Making decisions without considering consequences

• Overspending or financial difficulties

• Frequently changing jobs or hobbies

• Misusing substances like alcohol or drugs

• Getting into accidents

• Reacting with anger or irritability in the moment

Although not part of the official diagnostic criteria, many adults also experience:

Executive Dysfunction
Executive function is the brain's management system—helping you plan, prioritise, start tasks, and follow through. ADHD can affect:

• Working memory (holding and using information short-term)

• Task-switching and mental flexibility

• Self-monitoring and impulse control

• Initiating tasks (getting started even on small things)

• Feeling mentally stuck or overwhelmed

• Inhibiting actions or speech you might later regret

Emotional Dysregulation
ADHD can make it harder to manage emotional responses. This may look like:

• Mood swings or frequent emotional outbursts

• Irritability and low frustration tolerance

• Difficulty staying motivated

• Feeling overwhelmed by minor stressors

• Emotional sensitivity, reactivity, or mood swings

Time Agnosia
Time agnosia is difficulty perceiving and managing time. It can include:

• Losing track of time easily

• Chronic lateness

• Underestimating or overestimating how long things will take

• Forgetting the sequence of events

• Leaving things until the last minute

Others may interpret this as being careless or disrespectful, when it’s actually a neurological difference.

ADHD in females can sometimes look different. Women diagnosed with ADHD describe feeling:

• Mental clutter or internal distraction

• Emotional ups and downs

• Exhaustion from masking or staying organised

• Sensitivity to criticism or rejection

• Feeling overwhelmed by everyday life or relationships

• Physical symptoms like fatigue or pain

These symptoms are frequently misinterpreted as anxiety, stress, or “just not coping". Many women are misdiagnosed, not diagnosed for years, or not at all. Symptoms often worsen during periods of transition (like starting university or moving house) and can intensify with hormonal changes.

With the right support, understanding, and strategies, people with ADHD can thrive. Many adults not only manage their challenges but turn their unique traits into strengths. In fact, ADHD can come with a range of benefits, including:

• High energy and enthusiasm

• Creativity and strong problem-solving skills

• A sharp sense of humour

• Entrepreneurial thinking and a willingness to take risks

• Determination and resilience

• The ability to hyper-focus on passions, hobbies, or causes

• Quick thinking and responsiveness in high-pressure situations

• A strong sense of social justice and advocacy for others

• Deep sensitivity, insight, and empathy

• An adventurous spirit that embraces new opportunities

When well supported, these traits can lead to innovation, leadership, connection, and excellence in many areas of life.

Many people with ADHD also experience other mental health or neurodevelopmental conditions. These co-occurring conditions can overlap with ADHD symptoms, making everyday challenges more complex and sometimes delaying diagnosis.

Common co-occurring conditions include:

• Anxiety disorders – Persistent worry, social anxiety, or panic attacks are common. Anxiety can heighten inattention and avoidance, making ADHD symptoms feel more intense.

• Depression – Low mood, hopelessness, or lack of motivation often emerge from long-term struggles with focus, self-esteem, or feeling misunderstood.

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – ADHD and autism can occur together, affecting communication, emotional regulation, and sensory processing.

• Learning difficulties – Conditions such as dyslexia (reading), dyspraxia (motor coordination), and dyscalculia (math) often co-exist with ADHD, particularly impacting education and daily organisation.

• Substance use or disordered eating – Some people use substances, food, or restrictive eating patterns as a way to self-soothe or manage emotional and cognitive overwhelm.

• Sleep problems – Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking unrefreshed is common. Poor sleep can worsen inattention, impulsivity, and emotional regulation.

Understanding and addressing these overlapping conditions is an important part of supporting overall wellbeing and functioning for individuals with ADHD.

Some mental health or medical conditions can mimic or overlap with ADHD symptoms—like inattention, restlessness, or emotional reactivity. That’s why a thorough, personalised assessment is essential.

Conditions that may resemble or overlap with ADHD include:

• Anxiety disorders – Ongoing worry or hypervigilance can lead to restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and mental fatigue.

• Depression – Low mood and energy, reduced motivation, and poor concentration can resemble ADHD in both children and adults.

• Trauma or PTSD – Past trauma can cause emotional dysregulation, intrusive thoughts, and trouble focusing, which can be mistaken for ADHD.

• Bipolar disorder – Impulsivity and emotional intensity can appear similar to ADHD, but with different patterns.

• Sleep disorders or thyroid conditions – These can impact energy, attention, and mood regulation, contributing to ADHD-like symptoms.

Why accurate diagnosis matters

Getting clarity isn’t about putting you in a box—it’s about understanding your individual experience and identifying the supports and strategies that will genuinely help.

ADHD diagnoses have become more common in recent years. This doesn’t mean the condition itself is more prevalent—rather, more people who have been living with undiagnosed ADHD are now being recognised and supported.

There are several reasons for this increase in diagnosis, including:

• Greater awareness among the general public and healthcare professionals

• Improved understanding of how ADHD presents in girls and women, who have historically been underdiagnosed

• Reduced stigma, allowing more people to seek help

• Better access to information, including self-reflection tools and personal stories shared online

Some people mistakenly suggest that ADHD is “just a trend” or “made up.” In reality, ADHD has been described in medical literature for centuries—the first known clinical description dates back to 1775. Today, there is strong global consensus among healthcare providers and researchers that ADHD is a legitimate, neurodevelopmental condition.

Why accurate diagnosis matters

ADHD is not new—but recognising it can make a big difference. When left undiagnosed and untreated, ADHD can significantly affect mental health, relationships, work, education, and even life expectancy. Getting the right diagnosis isn’t about labelling—it’s about access to the understanding, tools, and support that can change lives for the better.

At AncorA, our adult ADHD assessments are designed to be thorough, respectful, and collaborative. We understand it can feel daunting—especially if you've spent years feeling overlooked or misunderstood. Our goal is to make the process clear, affirming, and genuinely helpful.

Here’s what to expect:

1. Getting to Know You
   We start by learning about your life experiences—your challenges and strengths across school, work, relationships, and daily routines. This helps us understand how ADHD may (or may not) be showing up for you.

2. Using Structured Tools
   We use validated questionnaires, structured interviews, and objective screening tools to explore areas such as attention, impulsivity, executive functioning, and emotional regulation. These tools provide a comprehensive picture—not just a checklist of symptoms.

3. Looking Beyond ADHD
   ADHD rarely exists in isolation. We also consider other conditions that can co-occur with or resemble ADHD, including anxiety, depression, trauma, autism, and physical health issues. This helps ensure an accurate and meaningful diagnosis.

4. Clear Feedback and Next Steps
   We’ll go through the results together, using plain language—no jargon. If ADHD is diagnosed, you’ll receive a written report along with tailored recommendations and guidance for moving forward, whether that’s coaching, medical treatment, or other supports.
   

ADHD isn’t something that needs to be “fixed.” With the right support, life can become more manageable, purposeful, and fulfilling.

At AncorA, we help you explore and build a tailored approach that suits your brain, your goals, and your life. Effective ADHD treatment for adults typically involves a combination of strategies, which may include:

Education and Understanding

Understanding how ADHD works is often the first—and most empowering—step. It can bring relief, validation, and a fresh perspective on challenges that may have felt confusing or personal.

Coaching and Skill-Building

ADHD coaching provides practical, forward-focused support to help you navigate everyday challenges. Coaching can support you to:

• Manage time and tasks more effectively

• Build and sustain habits and routines

• Strengthen focus, motivation, and follow-through

• Regulate emotions and reduce overwhelm

• Increase confidence and reduce shame-based thinking

Medication

For many adults, medication can reduce symptoms such as distractibility, impulsivity, and emotional intensity. While it’s not a cure, it can make it easier to engage with other supports.
Medication decisions are made in partnership with a GP, psychiatrist, or nurse prescriber.

Therapy and Mental Health Support

When ADHD co-occurs with anxiety, depression, trauma, or burnout, therapy can be an important part of care. Therapy can help with:

• Emotional regulation and distress tolerance

• Rebuilding self-esteem and reducing chronic stress

• Relationship difficulties and communication

• Processing past experiences of rejection or failure

We collaborate with trusted, ADHD-informed therapists to ensure your support is integrated and holistic.