Misdiagnosis Monday - The Potential Hazards along the way of arriving at a Diagnosis of ADHD

Please note this blog article does not in any way substitute medical opinion from a trained professional when seeking an accurate diagnosis. This is based on anecdotal stories from within the neuro-diverse community.

Misdiagnosis #1 Borderline Personality Disorder

A low boredom threshold and desire for novelty and excitement can potentially lead someone with ADHD to engage in a string of short-term relationships. This, coupled with the symptom inherent to ADHD of emotional reactivity, otherwise known as emotional dysregulation, can result in an inaccurate diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder. Although those with ADHD may struggle with fear of rejection, they do not experience fear of abandonment or feelings of emptiness to the same degree. Risk-taking in ADHD is also more likely to be driven by boredom, novelty-seeking and a lack of regard for consequences.

Misdiagnosis #2 Bipolar Disorder

Periods of high-energy, talkativeness and impulsiveness characteristic to ADHD contrasted against extended periods of burnout as a result of the ADHD being mismanaged can sometimes lead clinicians to confuse ADHD with bipolar disorder. Spontaneity, as a personality trait, often found in those with ADHD can be confused with disinhibition characteristic of bipolar manic states.

Misdiagnosis #3 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

An extended period of burnout lasting for months can lead doctors to suspect CFS.

Misdiagnosis #4 Autism

There is much overlap between autism and ADHD. Inattentive ADHD coupled with bouts of daydreaming or feeling ‘zoned out’ can lead to social withdrawal and lead some to suspect autistic traits.

Misdiagnosis #5 Histrionic Personality Disorder

For some with ADHD, dopamine-seeking may manifest itself in wanting to be centre of attention. This coupled with a flamboyant, outgoing personality could lead to a misdiagnosis of HPD.

Misdiagnosis #6 Depression

Living with ADHD can take a toll mentally and physically. Depression often co-exists with ADHD. Too often, depression can be identified as the primary diagnosis when, in reality, the depression is simply a symptom of undiagnosed ADHD.

Misdiagnosis #7 Anxiety

Anxiety also often co-exists with ADHD. A hyperactive mind, time management difficulties and inattention can all drive feelings of anxiety when it comes to navigating day-to-day life. Like with depression, this is sometimes identified as the primary diagnosis, when it is simply a symptom of the stress of living with ADHD.