ADHD Diagnosis Rates Are Rising - Are We Ready to Support Neurodivergent Leaders?
Australia is seeing a surge in ADHD diagnoses, sparking conversations about whether the condition is being overdiagnosed or simply better understood. As a leadership consultant and advocate for conscious leadership, I’m being requested by more and more organisations, leaders and HR Departments to provide coaching and support for their employees and leaders. This has led me to believe that the real question isn’t about numbers - it’s about how we support neurodivergent individuals in the workplace and beyond.
I can remember when I worked for a local health service in the 1990’s and the rates of asthma were rising, in a similar vein it was a debate about whether the increase was due to higher levels of awareness, increased reporting, education and promotion or an actual increase.
Are ADHD Diagnoses Really ‘Skyrocketing’?
Globally, ADHD prevalence sits around 6.4%, yet Australia’s diagnosis rate is just 2.6% (1 million out of 24.64 million people). Despite concerns about overdiagnosis, these figures suggest that many Australians remain undiagnosed, which can contribute to higher unemployment, mental health struggles, and absenteeism.
A recent article by Gary Nunn for ABC stated:
“Continued awareness and improved diagnosis are critical to unlocking the potential of those with ADHD, enabling them to harness their out-of-the-box thinking, creativity, problem-solving skills, and justice sensitivity—qualities essential for driving innovation in a rapidly changing world.”
But awareness alone isn’t enough. Like many modern life and wellbeing challenges, real progress requires a personalised approach.
The Best ADHD Support Combines Multiple Strategies
A well-rounded support system should include:
Medication as part of a broader strategy, not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Mental health therapy to address co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression.
ADHD inclusive coaching from accredited professional coaches.
Understanding management leaders and direct-line managers and supervisors also play a crucial role. Training, awareness and understanding can go a long way to making the smallest shifts that can make a huge difference.
Leadership Beyond Labels
At UQ Power, our Leading Ladies, Manager to Leader Shift and 10 Degree Shift Programs are all tailored to help leaders build their character rather than just their careers. This includes embracing diverse ways of thinking and working. Give me a kooee if you’d like to know more.
Let’s continue the conversation. How has ADHD support impacted your career or leadership journey?