Almost everyone experiences symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at some point in their lives. You probably do not have ADHD if the symptoms are recent or have occurred only occasionally in the past. These symptoms begin and persist since childhood, before the age of 12. A diagnosis of ADHD suggests that symptoms are severe and cause continuing problems in more than one area of your life.
ADHD is typically characterised by impulse control, inability to focus, or pay attention. ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed condition in young people. A 2016 survey shows 6% of children and teens aged 5-19 and 4% of adults are diagnosed with ADHD. What is shocking is that while the diagnosis is common among children, more than 80% of adults with ADHD have not been diagnosed or treated. People with ADHD also often experience other mental health concerns such as anxiety, substance use, depression, OCD, panic, etc., which also causes misdiagnosis.
Range of Symptoms
ADHD symptoms are categorised as inattentiveness, hyperactivity/impulsiveness or both of these combined. Examples of inattentiveness can involve challenges sustaining attention, disorganised thinking, difficulty in mental tasks and forgetfulness, among others. Such inattentiveness can lead to mistakes, paralysing procrastination and poor time management skills. Symptoms of hyperactivity/ impulsivity can include fidgeting, inability to engage in activities quietly, losing things, feeling restless, excessively talking and finding it challenging to wait.
Symptoms of ADHD appear distinctive at different ages. For instance, a school-aged child might experience difficulties with social interactions, academic problems or self-esteem issues. In contrast, an adolescent might experience excessive injury/ accidents, risky sexual behaviours, or issues with substance use. An adult might get into many vehicle accidents, experience relationship and substance use problems, and find it challenging to keep a job. Unproductive relationships and social interactions can induce more social isolation and a self-directed withdrawal from society.
Treatment & Counselling
Treatment for ADHD often includes a combination of medication, counselling, lifestyle changes, and support for any co-occurring mental health concerns. Since ADHD affects people differently, treatment plans should reflect each individual’s unique needs and goals.
Counselling can help individuals understand how ADHD affects their daily lives, relationships, work, school performance, and emotional well-being. Therapy also helps build practical skills for managing attention, organisation, impulsivity, emotional regulation, and communication challenges.
Common therapeutic approaches for ADHD include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to improve time management, organisation, and unhelpful thinking patterns
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to build resilience, self-awareness, and psychological flexibility
- Mindfulness-Based Therapy to strengthen focus, emotional regulation, and present-moment awareness
- Solution-Focused Therapy to identify strengths and create practical strategies for everyday challenges
Support Beyond Individual Therapy
Many people benefit from Individual Counselling, while others find value in Group Counselling or ADHD-focused support groups. These settings provide opportunities to learn from others, share experiences, and develop practical coping skills in a supportive environment.
Research shows that combining professional support, skill-building, and healthy routines can significantly improve ADHD symptoms and overall quality of life. With the right strategies and support, individuals with ADHD can build confidence, strengthen relationships, and thrive at school, work, and home.
Find ADHD Support at No Fear Counselling
If ADHD symptoms are affecting your daily life, relationships, work, or education, professional support can help. No Fear Counselling offers ADHD counselling services across Richmond, Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Surrey, and Chilliwack, and online throughout Canada. Contact us today to learn how counselling can help you better manage ADHD and reach your goals.
References
Biederman, J. (2004). Impact of comorbidity in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 65, 3-7.
Caye, A., Swanson, J., Thapar, A., Sibley, M., Arseneault, L., Hechtman, L., … & Rohde, L. A. (2016). Life span studies of ADHD—conceptual challenges and predictors of persistence and outcome. Current psychiatry reports, 18(12), 1-11.
Haverkampf, C. J. (2017). ADHD and Psychotherapy (2).
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2019, June 22). Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878