DigitalCortex.ioJun 8
"High-functioning" ADHD looks capable on the outside — but the internal cost is invisible.
What others see: reliable, driven, calm, organised.
What's actually there: self-doubt, chronic exhaustion, perfectionism rooted in fear, burnout, emotional overload.
"High-functioning" describes output — not capacity.
For many, it means high masking: suppressing struggles and pushing through at the expense of wellbeing.
Support starts with being understood — not performing better.
#ADHDAdults
Muninn 🍃Apr 27

Hyperactive–impulsive ADHD traits predict higher curiosity in adults: evidence from a cross-sectional study. BMC Psychology. 2026.

ADHD trait scores showed small-to-moderate positive correlations with overall curiosity and its subdimensions. Participants with ADHD reported moderately higher curiosity than those without a diagnosis. In regression analyses controlling for demographic variables, hyperactivity–impulsivity uniquely predicted curiosity (β = 0.26, p < .001), whereas inattention did not.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40359-026-04504-7

@actuallyadhd #ActuallyADHD #ADHD #AuDHD #ADHDadults

Hyperactive–impulsive ADHD traits predict higher curiosity in adults: evidence from a cross-sectional study - BMC Psychology

Background Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is typically framed in terms of difficulties with sustained attention, behavioral regulation, and impulse control, yet growing work suggests that some associated traits may also relate to potentially adaptive tendencies. Curiosity has been highlighted in qualitative research as one such trait that can function as both a strength and a challenge for adults with ADHD, but quantitative evidence examining its relationship to ADHD traits remains limited. This study examined whether ADHD traits are associated with individual differences in trait curiosity in adults. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 521 adults living in the United Kingdom, of whom 50.7% reported a formal ADHD diagnosis. ADHD traits were assessed using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale v1.1 (ASRS-v1.1) and curiosity was measured with the Curiosity and Exploration Inventory-II (CEI-II). Associations between ADHD traits and curiosity were first examined using Pearson correlations. Multiple linear regression analyses were then used to test whether inattention and hyperactivity–impulsivity uniquely predicted curiosity after controlling for age, gender, and education. Finally, curiosity was compared between diagnostic groups using Welch’s t-tests, and distribution-based analyses examined co-occurrence of high hyperactivity–impulsivity and high curiosity. Results ADHD trait scores showed small-to-moderate positive correlations with overall curiosity and its subdimensions. Participants with ADHD reported moderately higher curiosity than those without a diagnosis. In regression analyses controlling for demographic variables, hyperactivity–impulsivity uniquely predicted curiosity (β = 0.26, p < .001), whereas inattention did not. This pattern was consistent across diagnostic groups. Conclusion Hyperactive–impulsive ADHD traits are associated with higher self-reported curiosity in adults. These findings are consistent with accounts that link impulsivity-related traits to greater engagement with novelty and uncertainty, and suggest that some traits commonly framed as challenges may also relate to tendencies that individuals experience as strengths. Further research is needed to determine whether and when this association translates to functional advantages in educational and occupational settings.

SpringerLink
LeAnn Levering, LCSWApr 11

ADHD isn’t “can’t focus.” It’s a different way the brain handles attention, motivation, and reward.

Understanding that biology shifts the conversation from blame to support, and helps people use their strengths more effectively. #ADHD #ADHDAdults

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/wellbeing/mental-health/adhd-brain-expert/

AL3X_MJul 3, 2023
@sortareligious I think that’s true for a lot of us #ADHDAdults. It’s easy to think what could’ve been, but don’t forget how far you’ve come and how you’ve persevered without knowing.
Charles RoperJan 10, 2023

It can take years to get an assessment for ADHD as an adult in the UK.

YEARS.

This must change.

Please sign and pass on this petition asking the government to produce an adult ADHD strategy to:

- Lower the assessment wait time to 6 months; give pre-diagnosis support.

- Inform patients & public about adult ADHD & end discrimination.

- Support patient self-management.

(please boost if you can)

THANK YOU 🙏

https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/620084

#ADHD #ADHDUK #ADHDAdults #neurodiversity

1/🧵

Petition: Create an ‘Adult ADHD strategy’ to improve diagnosis and treatment

The Govt should create an adult ADHD strategy, informed by an independent review of NHS diagnosis and treatment, to:

Petitions - UK Government and Parliament
Show threadCharles RoperNov 29, 2022

@stickfog That's a really common concern. Try having a listen to episode 2 of the the #ADHDAdults podcast:

https://pca.st/5yyltxnj

It's all about drugs. "Alex and James discuss the drugs used to treat adult ADHD. Topics covered include; what the drugs do, drug hesitancy, their own experiences drug titration and treatment and the usual top tips."

It's a great podcast - I find it useful *and* enjoyable.

Episode 2: ADHD Drugs - The ADHD Adults Podcast

The ADHD Adults Podcast (in)expertly covers issues around ADHD in adults, sharing evidence-based information and personal experiences. Join us for Alex the round-headed psychoeducation monkey and James's genuinely poor tips for coping as well as regular games, correspondence from absolutely real people and occasionally hearing from more professional guests.

Pocket Casts