June 08, 2025
ADHD diagnosis rates have risen sharply over the past decade, sparking questions and misconceptions. Is ADHD overdiagnosed? Is it only a childhood condition? What are the real facts?
This article separates ADHD myths from reality, explores why awareness and diagnosis have increased and shows how Nexia Healthcare supports families and adults across Australia in understanding and managing ADHD.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects executive function, attention, impulse control and emotional regulation. It impacts both children and adults, and its presentation can vary greatly from person to person.
Fact: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder influenced by genetics, neurological differences and environmental factors. It is far more than bad parenting or misbehaviour.
Fact: ADHD continues into adulthood, and approximately one third of childhood cases persist throughout life. Adult ADHD is increasingly recognised and treated.
Fact: Diagnosis rates have risen because of better awareness and improved assessment tools. In reality, many adults with ADHD have been underdiagnosed or overlooked in the past.
Better Awareness: ADHD awareness campaigns across Australia have made it easier for families and teachers to spot early signs and seek help.
Updated Guidelines: New clinical guidelines now consider adult ADHD, making diagnosis more accessible and accurate.
Improved Assessments: Services like ADHD assessments in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane have become more available, and telehealth services across all of Australia.
Although exact causes are still being studied, a mix of genetic, neurological and environmental factors is believed to play a role.
Genetics: ADHD often runs in families.
Neurological differences: Brain scans show variations in areas responsible for attention and impulse control.
Early environment: Premature birth or low birth weight can increase the risk.
Persistent inattention and forgetfulness
Hyperactive or impulsive behaviour
Difficulty with organisation and time management
Emotional dysregulation and mood swings
At Nexia Healthcare, we use a thorough, evidence‑based approach when completing our ADHD assessments, tailored to individual needs:
Initial Consultation: A review of ADHD symptoms and medical history.
Standardised Questionnaires: Tools such as the Conners’ Rating Scales.
Clinical Interviews and Observation: Involves input from family, teachers or colleagues.
Final Report and Plan: Provides a clear ADHD diagnosis, recommendations for therapy or medication and guidance for accessing NDIS or other support services.
Tip: We offer telehealth ADHD services across Victoria, NSW and Queensland for eligible patients.
At Nexia Healthcare, we provide a complete range of ADHD services across Australia.
Comprehensive ADHD Assessments: For children, teens and adults.
Tailored Treatment Plans: Including therapy, medication review and ADHD coaching.
NDIS Support Services: Helping families access therapy, equipment and support.
Telehealth Services:Telehealth options available for patients across Australia.
You don’t need a referral to access a developmental assessment at Nexia, but Medicare rebates may require one.
Any time you have concerns. Many children are assessed between 2–6 years old, but younger and older assessments are also common.
Some children catch up on their own. Others need support to do so. An assessment can clarify what’s needed and take the pressure off parents wondering if they’re overthinking things.
Short attention span, forgetfulness, restlessness and difficulty following instructions can be early indicators.
No. Diagnosis rates have risen due to better detection and updated clinical guidelines. In reality, many adults have been underdiagnosed.
If using the public health system, the entire process can at times take over 18 months. At private ADHD assessment clinics like Nexia Health Care, this can be done in as little as 4-8 weeks to have a report returned.
If you are worried about ADHD for yourself or a loved one, you are not alone. At Nexia Healthcare, we help families and adults across Australia access comprehensive assessments, therapy and ongoing support tailored to their needs.
Contact us today to book an ADHD screening or speak with our team about how we can support you and your family.
