What Is ADHD? A Clear Guide for Adults in Calgary

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, organisation, and impulse control. At Clear Minds Psychology in Calgary, we help adults better understand how ADHD impacts their lives and develop practical tools to manage symptoms, improve focus, and restore confidence.

ADHD Symptoms in Adults: A Calgary Psychologist’s Guide

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that begins in childhood and, for approximately 75% of children, continues into adolescence. Over half of those continue to experience symptoms into adulthood.

Differences in brain development and brain activity affect attention, impulse control, and the ability to sit still. ADHD presents in three different subtypes, or “presentations”:

• Predominantly Inattentive Presentation
• Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation
• Combined Presentation

At Clear Minds Psychology in Calgary, we help adults understand and manage ADHD using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to improve focus, organisation, and self-esteem.

ADHD – Predominantly Inattentive Presentation

Common symptoms include:

• Making careless mistakes
• Difficulty sustaining attention
• Appearing not to listen
• Struggling to follow through with instructions
• Disorganization
• Avoiding tasks that require sustained effort
• Frequently losing things
• Being easily distracted
• Forgetfulness in daily activities

This type, sometimes referred to as ADD, is more common in women and often goes unnoticed until adulthood. Because inattentive symptoms are less visible, they can be misinterpreted as daydreaming, lack of motivation, or anxiety. Social expectations and the desire not to “stand out” can also contribute to delayed diagnosis.

ADHD – Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation

Common symptoms include:

• Fidgeting or squirming in seat
• Difficulty remaining seated
• Running or climbing excessively in children (or feeling extremely restless in adults)
• Acting or feeling as if “driven by a motor”
• Talking excessively
• Blurting out answers before questions are finished
• Difficulty waiting or taking turns
• Interrupting or intruding on others

This is the least common but most easily recognized presentation of ADHD, especially in children. Hyperactivity and impulsivity are more visible and can appear disruptive. In adults, symptoms often look different, for example, restlessness, difficulty relaxing, and a constant sense of being “on the go.”

ADHD – Combined Presentation

The combined type is the most common presentation. Individuals with this type meet the criteria for both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.

What Causes ADHD?

There is no single known cause of ADHD. However, research has identified several contributing factors.

1. Genetics
ADHD tends to run in families, with around 35% of children with ADHD having a parent or sibling who also has the condition. It’s common for adults to seek their own ADHD assessment after a child’s diagnosis, recognizing similar struggles with attention, organization, or emotional regulation. Adults may also recognize ADHD traits in a parent who was easily overwhelmed, inconsistent, or emotionally reactive.

2. Brain Differences
Brain imaging studies show that certain areas of the brain develop more slowly or are smaller in people with ADHD. There are also lower levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which help regulate attention, motivation, and emotion. In some cases, brain injuries from trauma or illness can result in ADHD-like symptoms.  You can learn more about this in my blog ‘ADHD and the Brain’.

3. Environmental Factors
Research suggests that other factors may increase risk, such as:

• Exposure to nicotine or alcohol during pregnancy
  Exposure to high levels of lead during infancy and early childhood
  Low birth weight

What It’s Like to Have ADHD

ADHD affects people differently, but some common struggles are shared. While ADHD is not a learning disorder, it can make learning and organization more challenging, leading to frustration or feelings of falling behind peers.
Social challenges are also common. A child with ADHD may be seen as overly talkative, impulsive, or disruptive. Others might appear shy or anxious. Over time, repeated criticism or misunderstanding can negatively impact confidence and self-worth.

Many adults with ADHD describe a lifelong sense of underachievement and inconsistency, despite knowing they are capable. They may feel “lazy” or “not good enough” due to difficulty following through on tasks, maintaining routines, or managing time effectively.

As adults become more independent, undiagnosed or untreated ADHD can significantly affect work performance, relationships, and daily life. Common struggles include:

• Difficulty managing day-to-day responsibilities (bills, chores, appointments)
• Procrastination and last-minute rushing
• Forgetfulness or losing items
• Starting tasks but not finishing them
• Inconsistent work performance
• Relationship stress and miscommunication

Even when they know what needs to be done, staying focused and following through can be hard. This inconsistency is often misunderstood by others as laziness, when in fact it reflects the neurological challenges of ADHD.

ADHD and Co-Occurring Conditions

ADHD often occurs alongside other mental health conditions, known as comorbidities. Most adults with ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, such as:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Substance use disorders
• Sleep problems or disorders

Treating ADHD effectively can help reduce symptoms of these related conditions and improve overall well-being.

The Good News – ADHD Can Be Managed

Although there is no cure for ADHD, it can be effectively managed with the right support and strategies. Many people go on to lead highly successful and fulfilling lives after receiving proper treatment and understanding their ADHD.

Treatment for ADHD in Calgary

Medications can be prescribed by your family physician to help regulate attention and impulse control.

At Clear Minds Psychology in Calgary, treatment may include:

Therapy and skill-building – to better understand ADHD and learn strategies for daily life

Psychoeducation – learning that ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, not a personal failing

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – to challenge negative self-beliefs and build healthier coping skills

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) – to address emotional distress or trauma related to years of misunderstanding and self-criticism

Through therapy, you can learn to manage your symptoms, strengthen focus and organization, and rebuild self-confidence. With understanding, compassion, and practical strategies, it’s possible to thrive, not just cope, with ADHD.

Support for Adult ADHD in Calgary

If you suspect you may have ADHD or are struggling to manage symptoms as an adult, help is available. At Clear Minds Psychology, we offer ADHD assessments and therapy for adults and seniors across Calgary.

Contact Clear Minds Psychology to learn more about ADHD therapy in Calgary and discover how we can help you move toward a clearer, more focused, and balanced life.