ADHD Is More Common Than You Think
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, affects a significant number of Australians. Around five to seven per cent of children and two to five per cent of adults meet criteria, which translates to roughly 200,000–280,000 children and 400,000–1 million adults living with ADHD. It’s not simply about being distracted or energetic - ADHD reflects differences in the way the brain regulates attention, impulse control, and organisation.
Recognising Symptoms: When Everyday Challenges Become ADHD
You might notice your child struggling to follow instructions at school, or find yourself constantly forgetting appointments or struggling to finish work projects. Almost everyone misplaces things or gets distracted from time to time. For ADHD, however, these patterns are persistent, appear across multiple areas of life, and have a significant impact on school, work, or home responsibilities.
Symptoms generally fall into two broad categories: Inattention, and hyperactivity/impulsivity, though many people experience a combination. Inattention might look like trouble focusing on tasks that feel repetitive or uninteresting, frequent forgetfulness, or difficulty organising and prioritising responsibilities. Hyperactivity and impulsivity often show up as restlessness, talking or acting impulsively, difficulty waiting turns, or struggling to relax. In adults, hyperactivity may present more as mental restlessness or constant task-switching rather than overt fidgeting. Emotional regulation, sleep challenges, and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or learning difficulties often add complexity.
Why Start With a GP?
For many, the GP is the first point of contact. They can take a detailed history, ask about symptoms across different settings, and check for medical factors that might affect attention. GPs can also prescribe and manage medication and provide a brief report confirming a diagnosis. If ADHD seems fairly clear and the main goal is confirmation or treatment, a GP is often a practical first step. They can also refer to a psychologist if a more comprehensive evaluation is needed.
What a Psychologist Can Offer
Psychologists provide a more in-depth look at how ADHD affects daily life. Their assessments typically involve structured interviews, cognitive testing, and information from parents, teachers, partners, or the individual themselves. A psychologist can produce a detailed report that outlines strengths, challenges, and practical strategies for school, work, or home life. This level of assessment is especially useful when the diagnosis is uncertain, symptoms are complex, or formal documentation is needed for support or funding purposes.
Working Together: GP and Psychologist Collaboration
GPs and psychologists often complement each other. While the GP can confirm a diagnosis and manage medical treatment, the psychologist focuses on functional impact and strategies to improve daily life. Deciding where to start depends on your situation. If ADHD seems likely and the main goal is confirmation or medication, a GP may be the most practical first step. If there is uncertainty, complex symptoms, or a need for a detailed report, a psychologist may be the better starting point. Many people benefit from seeing both, using the expertise of each professional collaboratively.
ADHD is more than occasional forgetfulness or restlessness. It’s a persistent pattern of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity challenges that can significantly affect everyday functioning. Understanding the roles of GPs and psychologists can help you choose the right first step and ensure you get an assessment and support that meet your needs.
You can learn more about ADHD screening & assessments at Growlife Medical
here.
