75%
of teachers are concerned about the lack of resources & support available for ADHD students
Why now?
ADHD doesn’t travel alone.
Very often, the first sign that we have ADHD in later life is anxiety, depression, or burnout. Sometimes ADHD can be mistaken for other conditions, such as bipolar disorder or dementia.
As we grow into adulthood, a range of health conditions can become interconnected, influencing overall well-being, including:
Anxiety Disorders: Persistent worries and social anxieties often accompany ADHD, impacting daily life.
Depression: The ongoing challenges of managing ADHD, masking and shame can have a severe effect in later life
Substance Abuse: Some may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with difficulties, risking further health complications.
Bipolar Disorder: Mood swings characteristic of bipolar disorder can sometimes overlap with ADHD symptoms, complicating diagnosis and management.
Personality and Conduct Disorders: Conditions like borderline personality disorder and oppositional defiant disorder can intersect with ADHD.
Learning Disabilities: Difficulties with reading, writing, or maths frequently occur alongside ADHD, but targeted interventions can make a difference.
Sleep Disorders: Insomnia and restless legs are common among adults with ADHD, affecting overall health.
Obesity: Impulsivity and impulsive eating can contribute to weight gain, but behaviour changes and support can help.
Diabetes: Emerging evidence suggests a higher prevalence of type II diabetes among adults with ADHD, likely linked to lifestyle factors and impulsive behaviours.
“ADHD, defined using diagnostic criteria ... affects 3–5% of the population. Although it originates in childhood, the impacts of ADHD are observed across the individual’s lifespan.”
UK Report of the independent
ADHD Taskforce April 2025
ADHD for Life
Early identification and management of ADHD can reduce the risks associated with some long-term health issues, according to research. Notably, recent UK studies show that individuals with ADHD, when supported appropriately, tend to have a lower mortality rate than previously thought. This is especially significant, given earlier concerns about increased risks of accidents and impulsive behaviours leading to higher mortality.
Join us in promoting awareness and proactive support. With the right knowledge and encouragement, every person with ADHD can achieve their full potential. Together, we can create environments where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.
