What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It's a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people think, focus, and behave. People with ADHD may struggle with attention, staying still, or controlling impulses.
It's not a sign of laziness or bad parenting—it's a recognised medical condition.
Is ADHD Real?
Yes, ADHD is real. It is recognised by major medical organisations like the World Health Organization and the Australian Psychological Society. Brain scans and research studies show clear differences in how the brains of people with ADHD work.
What Are the Symptoms of ADHD?
Symptoms usually fall into three categories:
1. Inattention
- • Easily distracted
- • Forgetful
- • Struggles to follow instructions
- • Disorganised
2. Hyperactivity
- • Fidgets or squirms
- • Talks a lot
- • Always "on the go"
3. Impulsivity
- • Interrupts others
- • Can't wait for turns
- • Acts without thinking
People may have one, two, or all three types of symptoms.
How Do You Get ADHD?
ADHD is usually inherited. That means it often runs in families. It's caused by differences in brain structure and function, especially in areas that manage attention, planning, and self-control.
It is NOT caused by watching too much TV, bad parenting, or eating sugar.
How Do You Know If You Have It?
You can't diagnose ADHD just by reading a list. You'll need a full assessment by a qualified professional, like a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist. This includes interviews, questionnaires, and sometimes reports from parents, teachers, or partners.
Can ADHD Be Misdiagnosed?
Yes. ADHD shares symptoms with anxiety, depression, autism, learning disorders, and sleep problems. That's why a proper assessment by a trained professional is essential.
What Does ADHD Feel Like on the Inside?
ADHD can feel like constant noise in your head, racing thoughts, forgetfulness, emotional ups and downs, and a sense of being overwhelmed. People often describe it as "knowing what to do but struggling to do it."
Can ADHD Be Mild, Moderate, or Severe?
Yes. ADHD exists on a spectrum. Some people have mild symptoms that barely affect daily life. Others may have more severe symptoms that interfere with work, school, and relationships.
Mild
Barely affects daily life
Moderate
Some daily challenges
Severe
Interferes with work/school
Does ADHD Affect Boys and Girls Differently?
Boys
More likely to show hyperactive behaviour
Girls
Often show more quiet inattentiveness
As a result, girls are often underdiagnosed or diagnosed later.
What is Executive Dysfunction?
Executive dysfunction means trouble with organising, planning, prioritising, and following through. It's a core part of ADHD and explains why people struggle with time management or task completion.
What Are the Treatments?
Treatment usually includes a mix of the following:
Medication
Stimulants or non-stimulants
Lifestyle Adjustments
Exercise, sleep routines, diet, and structure
Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), coaching, or counselling
Education & Support
Learning more about ADHD helps a lot
There's no cure, but ADHD can be managed very effectively. Many people with ADHD thrive once they receive the right treatment and support.
Can I Be Assessed and Diagnosed Immediately?
Short answer: Unfortunately, no, especially if you rely on low-cost or public pathways in Australia.
Long Wait Times & Backlogs
- • Public clinics: 12-29 months wait
- • WA public kids' services: 24-29 months
- • Private services: 6+ months to 1+ year
- • Many specialists not accepting new patients
Costs Pile Up Quickly
- • Private assessment: $800-$2,000+
- • Additional psychiatrist costs
- • Ongoing medication costs
- • Regional areas have worse shortages
ADHDRapidCare Solution
In late 2025 ADHDRapidCare will be offering a solution to all these costs and time issues with its advanced Assessment and Diagnosis service with a guaranteed turn-around of 14 days.
What Happens After Being Diagnosed with ADHD?
Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD, here's what typically happens next:
Discussion of Treatment Options
Review medication, therapy, and lifestyle approaches
Medication Trial (if chosen)
Start with appropriate medication and monitor response
Supportive Tools and Planning
Develop strategies for daily management
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular check-ins for legal, clinical, and safety reasons
Long Term Management
Adjustments as life changes and ongoing support
ADHD is ongoing—many people benefit from a combination of approaches. You don't just get diagnosed and sent on your way—good care involves regular check-ins and adjustments as life changes.
Once patients are diagnosed with ADHD and begin treatment, ongoing monitoring is essential for legal, clinical, and safety reasons.
For ongoing ADHD Care, see the ADHDRapidCare Monthly Care Plan now.
What Happens If ADHD Is Left Untreated?
Untreated ADHD can cause serious problems:
- Poor performance at school or work
- Relationship breakdowns
- Anxiety or depression
- Low self-esteem
- Risky or impulsive behaviours
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these outcomes.
What's the Cost of Diagnosis and Treatment in Australia?
Costs can vary depending on where you live and whether you use private or public services.
Diagnosis
A full ADHD assessment with a psychiatrist or psychologist can range from $600 to $2500+
Medication
Costs depend on the type and whether it's subsidised under the PBS
Therapy & Support
Sessions with psychologists or coaches can range from $200 to $600+ per hour
Note: ADHDRapidCare offers a full-service Care Plan for $79 per month. See here
Some costs are covered by private health insurance.
Do Treatments Work?
Yes, treatment can be life-changing. Many people notice big improvements with the right mix of medication, therapy, and support. It may take time to find the best approach, but the benefits are usually worth it.
Are All Treatments Equally Effective?
Not always. Everyone is different. Some people respond well to medication, while others do better with therapy or lifestyle changes. The most effective approach is usually a personalised combination of treatments.
Is ADHD a Form of Autism?
No, ADHD is not a form of autism. They are separate conditions, but they can sometimes appear together. Some people have both ADHD and autism, which requires a slightly different approach to care.
Diagnosed with ADHD & want the best care?
Plan Details
- •Weekly Smart SMS Monitoring
- •Weekly and monthly AI Reports
- •Monthly ADHD nurse meeting
- •Video or Phone