Beyond Hyperactivity: The Overlooked Faces of ADHD

When most people think of ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), they imagine a restless child bouncing off the walls or someone who can’t sit still during a meeting. But ADHD can look very different—and often goes undiagnosed for years, especially in adults, women, and people who don’t fit the stereotypical mold.

At Nort Star Psychological Services, we’ve worked with countless patients who never suspected ADHD because their symptoms didn’t match what they thought it was. If you’ve ever felt disorganized, overwhelmed, or mentally exhausted despite trying your best, you’re not alone—and it may be time to consider a closer look.

🧠 The Hidden Side of ADHD

1. Emotional Dysregulation Do you feel emotions more intensely than others? Maybe it takes hours—or days—to calm down after a disagreement. Many people with ADHD describe their emotions as a “rollercoaster,” often reacting with greater intensity than seems appropriate.

2. Time Blindness Have you ever planned to do something “in 5 minutes” and suddenly it’s two hours later? People with ADHD often struggle with something called time blindness—a distorted sense of how much time has passed or how long things will take. This isn’t laziness; it’s neurological.

3. Difficulty Starting Tasks This one surprises people: ADHD often shows up as trouble initiating tasks, not just finishing them. You know the dishes need to be done, the email needs a reply, but starting feels like hitting a wall. It’s not procrastination—it’s executive dysfunction.

🧩 Misdiagnosed, Misunderstood

People with undiagnosed ADHD are often misdiagnosed with anxiety, depression, or even bipolar disorder—because those conditions share overlapping features. In truth, the root cause could be ADHD that’s gone unnoticed.

This is why comprehensive neuropsychological testing matters. It doesn’t just label; it clarifies. It helps us understand how your brain works and what support you truly need.

👩‍⚕️ Why Testing Can Be Life-Changing

Testing for ADHD isn’t just about getting a diagnosis. It’s about understanding your mind so you can make choices that fit you. Whether that means specific strategies, tools, or even accommodations at work or school, testing is the first step.

🤔 Could It Be ADHD?

Here are a few signs that might warrant a closer look:

• You’re constantly forgetting small tasks or misplacing items

• You feel overwhelmed by to-do lists

• You struggle with follow-through despite good intentions

• You feel like your brain is "always on," even when you're tired

• You’ve been told you “don’t seem like the ADHD type”

📞 Let’s Talk

ADHD isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s quiet, internal, and exhausting. If any of this resonates with you or someone you care about, we invite you to reach out about ADHD testing.

Understanding yourself better isn’t just helpful—it can be freeing.