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How Does Adult ADHD Misdiagnosis Happen? 

PostedOctober 16, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

It’s common for adult ADHD misdiagnosis to occur because the condition often presents in subtle or misunderstood ways. Adults with ADHD may struggle with focus, organisation, or emotional regulation, but these issues can look like depression, anxiety, or even personality disorders. When symptoms overlap with other conditions, the result is often diagnostic errors ADHD professionals work hard to avoid. 

One major challenge is that many adults have learned to mask or compensate for their difficulties. They may not realise their struggles are rooted in ADHD, especially if they did well in school or have found ways to get by in work or relationships. Recognising overlapping conditions ADHD is key to receiving the correct support. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD

Commonly Confused Conditions 

Awareness of how adult ADHD misdiagnosis happens can improve the chances of getting the right diagnosis. 

Anxiety and Depression 

Many adults report feeling overwhelmed, forgetful, or unable to focus. These are core ADHD traits but can also be mistaken for mood disorders. 

Bipolar Disorder 

Emotional ups and downs may resemble mood swings, but the context and triggers often differ. 

High-Functioning Autism 

Social difficulties and executive dysfunction can overlap, but motivations and developmental history help differentiate the two. 

If you’re concerned about a potential adult ADHD misdiagnosis, speak to a professional who understands these complexities and can guide a thorough assessment. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD
Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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.