Why is Everyone ADHD Now?

By Dr Kirsten Abbott

It feels like everyone’s talking about ADHD these days. Your best friend just got diagnosed. Your colleague’s trying medication. There’s a steady stream of ADHD content on TikTok and Instagram. And maybe you’ve even started wondering: Wait… is this me too? You’re not alone in thinking it. ADHD has absolutely had a moment (or many). But is everyone suddenly developing ADHD? Or is something else going on?

 

What’s Really Behind the ADHD Boom?

1. Better Diagnostic Tools

The way we assess ADHD has come a long way since the 1990s. Back then, assessments often focused on hyperactivity in school-aged boys. If you were a quiet, dreamy, perfectionistic girl, or an adult struggling to focus at work—you were likely overlooked. Today, we know ADHD can show up in different ways: as inattention, impulsivity, or yes—hyperactivity. But we now understand that it affects people of all genders and ages. Psychologists use standardised tools, interviews, and rating scales that give a clearer picture of how someone’s brain is functioning.

Another factor here is the change in our approach to diagnosis itself. In psychology, we use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (or “DSM”) to guide our diagnostic process. Up until the latest edition of this manual, it was not possible to diagnose individuals with both ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), resulting in many people being segregated into one or the other category. However, we now know that ADHD and ASD do co-occur and we are able to provide both diagnoses to the one person. As a result, a lot of people who would previously be excluded from the ADHD category are now, rightfully, receiving this diagnosis.

2. Greater Awareness and Advocacy

Let’s thank the internet (and maybe a few TikTok creators) for shining a light on how ADHD can show up in real life. People are sharing their lived experiences, breaking down stereotypes, and giving others the language to say, “Hey… that’s me.” More adults—especially women and non-binary people—are realising that their struggles weren’t about being “lazy” or “disorganised,” but signs of a brain that works a little differently.

3. Psychological Trends and Fads

We also can’t ignore the influence of pop psychology trends. Sometimes, it does feel like ADHD is the new black. And yes, it’s easy to self-diagnose after a few relatable reels. But while social media can spark curiosity, it’s not a substitute for a proper clinical assessment. Here’s the truth: not everyone has ADHD. But a lot more people have it than we once realised—and they deserve to understand their brains and get support.

 

Is It ADHD or Just… Life?

 Modern life is a lot. We’re overstimulated, under-rested, constantly multitasking, and often burnt out. So yes—many people feel distracted, tired, and disorganised. That doesn’t automatically mean they have ADHD.

So… how do we tell the difference? The key is consistency, impact, and context.

 

Everyday Distraction vs. ADHD

It’s completely normal to:

  • Forget where you left your keys sometimes.

  • Procrastinate on a boring task like your tax return.

  • Scroll on your phone too long when you’re tired.

  • Miss a meeting because you had too much going on.

But if you:

  • Lose your keys, phone, or wallet daily (and it stresses you out).

  • Constantly feel overwhelmed by simple tasks like paying bills or answering emails.

  • Are chronically late, even when you try your hardest.

  • Struggle to complete anything unless it’s exciting or urgent.

  • Get negative feedback at work or home because of your forgetfulness or disorganisation…

 Then it might be worth looking deeper.

Patterns That Matter

People with ADHD often describe their brain like a browser with 45 tabs open. They’ve often struggled with these issues since childhood, even if they managed to “hold it together” for years. ADHD isn’t just about having a messy desk or a busy mind. It affects:

  • Time management

  • Motivation and follow-through

  • Emotional regulation (yep—big feelings and reactivity count too)

  • Memory and organisation

  • Impulsivity (saying things, spending, interrupting)

And unlike occasional stress, ADHD doesn’t switch off on weekends or after a holiday.

It’s part of how the brain functions, day in and day out.

Duration Matters (and So Does Masking)

ADHD doesn’t suddenly pop up in adulthood. According to diagnostic criteria, symptoms must have been present from childhood—even if they weren’t recognised or diagnosed at the time. But here’s the tricky part: “masking”. Many people—especially women and high-achieving adults—learn to compensate for their symptoms. They stay up late to finish tasks, write endless to-do lists, or become perfectionists just to stay afloat. On the outside, they might seem “together,” but underneath, they’re often exhausted, anxious, or burnt out. So when life throws extra pressure their way (parenthood, job changes, health issues), those coping strategies stop working—and the symptoms finally come to the surface. That’s why a good ADHD assessment looks at your whole story, not just how you’re functioning right now.

 

What Causes ADHD?

We still don’t have all the answers, but here’s what we know:

  • Genetics play a big role. ADHD often runs in families.

  • It’s linked to how certain brain areas develop and communicate, especially those involved in attention, motivation, and impulse control.

  • It’s not caused by bad parenting, screen time, sugar, or laziness.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition—meaning it’s about how the brain is wired, not a personal failing.

 

We’re Not Just Diagnosing Everyone

At Equilibrium Psychology, we don’t hand out ADHD labels like free samples. A diagnosis isn’t about ticking off a few symptoms—it’s about understanding the whole person. Sometimes, what looks like ADHD is actually anxiety, depression, burnout, or trauma. That’s why we take our time to get it right. And if it is ADHD, the good news is—there’s help. Medication, psychological therapy, lifestyle changes… There are plenty of ways to support your brain and start living with more ease. Find out more about our approach to psychological treatment of ADHD

 

Think You Might Have ADHD?

Whether you’re curious, confused, or just ready for clarity, we’re here to help. At Equilibrium Psychology, our team of Sydney-based clinical psychologists offers comprehensive ADHD assessments and support tailored to adults. No judgment, just understanding.

To learn more about our ADHD assessments or to book an appointment, visit https://www.equilibriumpsychology.com.au/adhd-assessments or call us on (02) 92626156 to chat with our team and take the next step.

Ben Scrivener