ADHD can remain hidden for decades: Why delays in diagnosis are common
ADHD in adults is frequently misdiagnosed as depression or normal aging because symptoms like inattention are often masked by lifelong coping strategies. Experts emphasize the need for greater awareness to identify undiagnosed adults who struggled throughout their lives.
Why it matters
Recognizing adult ADHD is crucial for improving the quality of life and mental health outcomes for individuals who were overlooked during childhood.
In older adults, lifelong differences associated with neurodivergence such as difficulties with attention, organisation, planning or forgetfulness are often mistaken for normal ageing, depression or dementia, delaying diagnosis and treatment. Experts say recognising that conditions such as Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can persist throughout life is essential to identifying people who have remained undiagnosed for years.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that begins in childhood but often persists throughout life. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. While symptoms typically emerge in childhood, they can continue into adolescence and adulthood, affecting education, employment, relationships and everyday life.
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