Is Hypothyroidism Mistaken for ADHD?

PostedOctober 8, 2025

UpdatedOctober 8, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, hypothyroidism vs. ADHD misdiagnosis is a common issue, as the symptoms of thyroid disorders can often mimic those of ADHD. Both conditions share overlapping symptoms like fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and cognitive sluggishness, leading to potential misdiagnosis. When these symptoms are not properly evaluated, individuals may be wrongly diagnosed with ADHD when a thyroid imbalance is the underlying cause.

Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, can lead to cognitive symptoms such as poor memory, low energy, and an inability to focus. These symptoms are also seen in ADHD, making it essential for clinicians to differentiate between the two conditions through medical screening.

Why Hypothyroidism Can Be Mistaken for ADHD

Here’s why hypothyroidism vs. ADHD misdiagnosis can exist:

Cognitive symptoms overlap

Both conditions can cause issues with concentration, attention, and mental clarity, leading to confusion in diagnosis.

Fatigue and low energy

Hypothyroidism often causes extreme tiredness, which can affect performance in daily activities, much like the fatigue experienced by those with ADHD.

Failure to screen for thyroid issues

If a healthcare provider does not rule out thyroid problems during assessment, hypothyroidism may be overlooked, leading to an ADHD diagnosis without proper evaluation.

In conclusion, if you’re experiencing symptoms such as low energy or difficulty focusing, it’s important to explore all potential causes, including thyroid issues. A thorough medical screening can help uncover the true cause of cognitive symptoms. Accurate diagnosis requires exploring all possibilities to ensure the right treatment for your 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 Overdiagnosis vs. Underdiagnosis in ADHD.

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

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.