ADHD vs. Anxiety

How to Tell the Difference

While commonly recognized in children, ADHD is not limited to childhood. It is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that often remains undiagnosed well into adulthood. In adults, symptoms such as inattention, emotional dysregulation, and executive functioning difficulties can significantly interfere with daily life—but are frequently mistaken for burnout or stress.

Anxiety and ADHD can share similar features: mental fatigue, distractibility, low motivation, and difficulty managing responsibilities. This overlap can make accurate diagnosis challenging, yet critical.

At Valley Psychological Centre, we offer thorough, evidence-based assessments to help differentiate ADHD from burnout and other concerns. Our care continues beyond diagnosis through group-based interventions that empower adults with practical tools for lasting change—all delivered with clinical expertise and compassionate support.

What is Adult ADHD?

Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts core areas of functioning, including attention regulation, impulse control, emotional modulation, and executive functioning. While ADHD is commonly identified in childhood, a significant number of individuals remain undiagnosed until adulthood—if recognized at all.

Common features of adult ADHD may include:

Persistent disorganization and forgetfulness
Difficulty maintaining focus or completing tasks
Impulsive decision-making or behavior
Inner restlessness or challenges with relaxation
Heightened emotional sensitivity and mood fluctuations
Distorted perception of time or difficulty estimating task duration

If these challenges resonate with your experiences, know that you're not alone—and that effective support is available.

Why ADHD Often Goes Undiagnosed in Adults

In adults, ADHD symptoms can present differently and are often misinterpreted. Many individuals develop compensatory strategies—such as perfectionism, overachievement, or avoidance—that can obscure underlying difficulties. Others may attribute their struggles to stress, anxiety, or personal shortcomings, leading to delayed recognition or misdiagnosis.

A comprehensive psychological assessment is an essential first step toward clarity.

Getting Tested for ADHD at Valley Psychological Centre

Following diagnosis—or if you’re exploring support while awaiting assessment—our Adult ADHD Group Programme Offers a structured, therapeutic space to build insight and skills in a supportive environment.

Led by experienced clinical psychologists, this group empowers adults to better understand their cognitive profile, develop practical strategies, and connect with others navigating similar challenges.

Participants will learn to:

Improve Attention
Learn how to reduce distractions and sustain focus more effectively.
Enhance Emotional Regulation
Build tools to manage overwhelm, reactivity, and mood fluctuations.
Strengthen Executive Functioning and Time Management
Implement systems to plan, prioritize, and follow through on goals.
Manage Impulsivity
Cultivate self-awareness and intentional responses rather than reactive ones.
Develop Relationship Skills
Improve communication, set boundaries, and foster empathy in interpersonal dynamics.
Boost Confidence and Self-Efficacy
Rebuild self-esteem and develop a stronger sense of competence in daily life.

Our group program provides evidence-based support in a validating, judgment-free environment. You don’t have to navigate ADHD alone—and meaningful change is possible.

Not Sure Where to Start?

Whether you're questioning if ADHD is part of your experience or simply looking to better understand how your mind works, we're here to support you. At Valley Psychological Centre, our services are tailored to meet you where you are—whether that means pursuing a formal assessment, joining a therapeutic group, or exploring individual therapy options.

Take the First Step Toward Clarity and Control

ADHD doesn’t define who you are—it reflects a unique way your brain processes information. With the right support, structure, and strategies, it's possible to manage challenges effectively while embracing your strengths.

Pursuing an ADHD assessment can be a pivotal step—providing not just answers, but a practical roadmap for moving forward with confidence and support.

Contact us today to book an ADHD assessment or learn more about our Adult ADHD Group Programme. Together, we can help you move toward greater focus, empowerment, and self-understanding.