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Is ADHD more common in queer individuals? 

PostedOctober 1, 2025
UpdatedOctober 1, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Yes, studies show that ADHD in queer individuals is more common as compared to the general population. This growing body of research highlights a meaningful connection between neurodivergence and identity, with higher prevalence and shared experiences of stigma playing a key role. 

Researchers believe this link exists due to overlapping social and psychological factors. What complicates this further is comorbidity, where conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD occur alongside ADHD. These are especially prevalent in communities that experience systemic discrimination, making it harder to untangle cause from effect. The result is a population that often faces multiple, misunderstood layers of health and identity. 

Start your ADHD self-assessment now

Why ADHD and queer identity often intersect 

Below are key reasons why this overlap is being seen more frequently in clinical and lived experience data. 

Higher prevalence rates  

Queer communities report more frequent diagnoses of ADHD, suggesting that identity and neurotype may be linked in meaningful ways, possibly due to shared experiences of societal stress. 

Shared experiences of stigma  

Both queer individuals and those with ADHD often face judgement or exclusion, which can compound emotional challenges and delay support. 

Increased comorbidity  

Mental health conditions commonly appear alongside ADHD, particularly in people navigating queer identity. This complexity can make diagnosis and treatment more difficult. 

In conclusion, both ADHD and queer identities challenge societal norms, often leading to marginalisation, and internalised shame. These shared pressures may increase the visibility and diagnosis of ADHD in queer individuals or potentially influence the development and expression of symptoms. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to LGBTQ+ Individuals with ADHD.  

Start your ADHD self-assessment now
Avery Lombardi, MSc, author for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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