By Neal Glendenning

Most people associate ADHD with childhood hyperactivity, disrupted classrooms, or a general inability to focus. But for those of us with high-functioning ADHD, the reality is far more nuanced. On the surface, we often appear successful, articulate, and organised. We hit deadlines (sometimes just barely), juggle responsibilities, and may even be praised for our creativity or energy. But underneath that veneer lies a whirlwind of mental gymnastics, internal chaos, and relentless self-correction.

This is what it's like to live with high-functioning ADHD — a condition that’s invisible, paradoxical, and deeply misunderstood.

The Double Life of High-Functioning ADHD

For years, I didn’t realize I had ADHD. I got good grades. I held down jobs. And yet, I was constantly anxious, exhausted, and overwhelmed. I thought I was just lazy or broken — someone who had to try twice as hard to do what others did effortlessly.

The term high-functioning is misleading. It implies ease, or mastery. In reality, it means that we've found ways — often unsustainable ones — to mask our symptoms. We compensate. We overwork. We develop intricate systems of post-its, reminders, timers, and rituals. And when we fail, we internalise it as a personal flaw, not a neurological condition.

The Positives: Superpowers in Disguise

It’s easy to focus on what ADHD takes away, but it also gives. High-functioning ADHD can come with a set of unique strengths — if they’re understood and nurtured.

1. Creativity and Divergent Thinking

Our minds rarely stay on a single track, and while that can feel chaotic, it also fosters incredible creativity. We see connections others miss. We brainstorm prolifically. In moments of flow, we create art, write compelling stories, design innovative solutions, and think far outside the box.

2. Hyperfocus

One of ADHD's most misunderstood traits is hyperfocus — an intense immersion in something stimulating or meaningful. When it kicks in, we can work for hours without looking up. It's what allows us to write a paper in one night or build a website in a weekend. The trick, of course, is triggering hyperfocus intentionally (which is easier said than done, but I promise you it can be done!).

3. Energy and Enthusiasm

ADHD brains often seek novelty and stimulation, and when we find something exciting, our enthusiasm is infectious. We can be dynamic presenters, passionate advocates, and highly driven entrepreneurs. We bring energy to teams, ask unusual questions, and keep momentum going — especially when allowed to work in our own style.

4. Resilience and Adaptability

Living with ADHD means navigating a world that often isn't built for us. Those of us who function "well" despite our challenges tend to develop resilience. We've learned to pivot, adapt, and figure things out on the fly. We may also be incredibly empathetic — especially toward others who struggle quietly, as we do.

The Negatives: Struggles Beneath the Surface

For every strength, there’s a shadow. High-functioning ADHD isn’t without cost. The effort required to “pass” as neurotypical can lead to burnout, anxiety, and even depression.

1. Executive Dysfunction

Planning, prioritising, starting, and finishing tasks — these basic executive functions can be inconsistent at best. One day we might organise an entire event, the next we can’t start a simple email. The internal frustration of knowing what needs to be done, but feeling unable to do it, is maddening.

2. Time Blindness

Time doesn’t feel linear with ADHD. We’re often late, underestimate how long things take, or feel paralysed by looming deadlines. We live in two modes: now and not now. This wreaks havoc on our schedules and relationships — especially with people who interpret lateness or forgetfulness as a lack of care.

3. Emotional Dysregulation

We feel things intensely. A minor mistake can trigger a shame spiral. A perceived slight can feel devastating. Rejection sensitivity is a common feature, especially among those undiagnosed until adulthood. We often spend a disproportionate amount of time managing our emotions — or recovering from them.

4. Impulsivity and Decision Fatigue

Whether it’s blurting out a thought, overspending, or saying yes to too many projects, impulsivity shows up in subtle but significant ways. And because we struggle with prioritisation, even small daily choices (what to wear, what to eat, what to focus on) can become overwhelming.

5. Masking and Burnout

Perhaps the most insidious part of high-functioning ADHD is the constant masking. We create systems to stay on track — color-coded calendars, elaborate to-do lists, task management apps. We mimic neurotypical behaviors to fit in at work or in relationships. But this camouflage is exhausting. Eventually, many of us burn out.

What Helps: Acceptance, Support, and Structure

The turning point for me was diagnosis — not because it solved everything, but because it reframed the struggle. I stopped blaming myself. I started learning what actually worked for my brain. Medication helped, but so did therapy, ADHD coaching, body-doubling, and unapologetically designing my life around my needs.

Here’s what helps me now:

Flexible routines that support momentum without rigidity.

Accountability buddies who understand ADHD.

Work environments that value output over how it's achieved.

Compassionate self-talk, especially after a rough day.

Rest that isn’t “earned” through productivity.

Final Thoughts: We’re Not Broken, Just Wired Differently

High-functioning ADHD is a balancing act — between potential and paralysis, brilliance and burnout. We’re not lazy or flaky or disorganized by choice. Our brains are just tuned to a different frequency.

When understood and supported, we can thrive — not despite ADHD, but because of how we’ve learned to navigate the world with it. But that requires awareness, patience, and a collective shift away from rigid definitions of success and productivity.

To anyone else walking this path: you’re not alone. You’re not too much. You’re not broken.

You’re just wired for a different kind of brilliance.