Adult ADHD in Alberta: Signs You Might Be Struggling (Even If You’re High-Functioning)
When most people think of ADHD, they picture a hyperactive child who can’t sit still. But ADHD often looks very different in adults—and many people go undiagnosed for years because they’ve managed to keep up appearances at work, in school, or at home. This is called "masking".
If you live in Alberta and you’ve ever wondered, “Could I have ADHD even though I’m doing okay?”—the answer is yes, it’s possible. Many adults with ADHD are what we call “high-functioning.” They get by, but at a cost.
Let’s break down what adult ADHD can look like—especially the subtle, overlooked signs—and how you can get clarity and support.
What Does “High-Functioning ADHD” Mean?
“High-functioning” simply means you’re able to maintain the basics: holding down a job, attending school, managing relationships. But underneath that surface-level success, you may be:
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Burning out from overcompensating
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Struggling to stay organized or get started
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Battling inner chaos or self-criticism
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Constantly missing appointments, deadlines, or details
These struggles often go unnoticed—especially if you’re smart, driven, or people-pleasing. You’ve likely developed coping strategies, but they don’t always hold up.
Subtle Signs of Adult ADHD (That You Might Be Missing)
Here are some less obvious signs of adult ADHD that are common—especially in adults who’ve never been formally assessed:
1. Time blindness
You lose track of time easily, struggle to estimate how long things will take, or are chronically late—even with reminders.
2. Productivity rollercoasters
You either hyper-focus on one task for hours, ignoring everything else, or you can’t seem to start anything at all.
3. Disorganization that’s just barely managed
Your home, inbox, or to-do list is messy—but you’re just organized enough to avoid disaster.
4. Decision fatigue
Even simple decisions—what to eat, which email to reply to—can feel overwhelming or lead to complete shutdown.
5. Emotional dysregulation
You feel emotions intensely and may overreact, shut down, or get stuck in spirals of guilt, shame, or frustration.
6. Imposter syndrome
Despite achievements, you often feel like a fraud. You suspect others are better at “adulting” than you.
7. Frequent job changes or career dissatisfaction
You jump from role to role, or struggle to find work that holds your interest long-term.
8. Restlessness—mental or physical
You might not be physically hyperactive, but your mind races. You struggle to unwind, even when you're tired.
Why It Matters
It’s easy to chalk these issues up to stress, burnout, or anxiety—especially with demanding work schedules, long commutes, or limited mental health resources.
But undiagnosed ADHD can erode your confidence, strain your relationships, and make everyday tasks feel exhausting. And unfortunately, accessing a diagnosis through Alberta’s public system can take months—or years.
You Don’t Have to Keep Struggling Alone
At Sparrow ADHD & Wellness, we offer fast, virtual ADHD assessments for adults all across Alberta. Whether you’re in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, or a rural community, our virtual telehealth services are here to help you explore whether ADHD may be part of your story—and what to do next.
No referral needed
Comprehensive assessment and follow-up
Friendly, neurodivergent-affirming care
Results in weeks—not months
Ready to Find Out More?
If this post feels like it’s describing you—you’re not imagining it. And you’re not alone.
Visit adhdab.ca to learn more or book your ADHD assessment today. Assessments are available on a virtual telehealth platform that is private, secure, and PIPEDA-compliant.
