Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is formerly known as ADD and is considered one of the most common neurological disorders diagnosed in childhood. There’s been an incredible amount of press lately about adults being diagnosed with ADHD later in life, such as Em Rusciano at the National Press Club. 

ADHD is an incredibly interesting condition – it’s a difference in brain development falling under the ‘neurodiversity’ umbrella and scientists aren’t sure what causes and risks factors are associated with it, though recent studies link genetic factors with ADHD. According to scientific literature, between 50-70% of autistic individuals will also be diagnosed with ADHD. A 2023 study looking at a sample of children diagnosed with ADHD found nearly 9% of them were gifted!

In fact, you’ll find a lot of the symptoms for ADHD overlap with symptoms for giftedness, as demonstrated by this handy table I found on Healthline (shown below). 

These overlapping symptoms, along with all the various types of presentation of ADHD can make diagnosis very tricky for your gifty as both conditions can mask the other.

How do you decide if looking at a diagnosis is a good idea? Keep in mind that all humans can experience symptoms of ADHD – but not everyone’s life is impacted highly by them. If, for example, your child’s impulsivity is causing safety issues on a regular basis, or their inability to focus and concentrate isn’t allowing them to live the life they want, then looking at a diagnosis, support and treatment could be a place to start. 

Diagnosis for kids starts with a GP referral to a paediatrician. Most often the paediatrician can diagnose and offer medication for treatment, though in some cases they may have a child psychologist or psychiatrist weigh in and offer support. You may be asked to get your child’s teacher to fill in forms about their behaviour at school. 

ADHD, like Autism Spectrum Disorder, comes with its struggles for sure, but it also comes with some incredible strengths. Our 2e-ers with ADHD experience the world in such a beautifully unique way and often times at a pace we can’t hope to keep up with.

With best wishes,

Sabrina, author of the 2E Corner