An introduction to ADHD. In Singapore.
Figuring out if you have ADHD and what to do next, can feel confusing and overwhelming.
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Through both personal and professional experience, I’ve seen how hard it can be to find the right professionals, the right support, and the right strategies. It often takes a few wrong turns before things start to fall into place, particularly in a country you are new to.
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How I work with clients impacted by ADHD - whether Adults, Parents or Partners, has been carefully developed from my years of professional and personal experiences sucessfully helping people to live the lives they are dreaming of.​​​​
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Your ADHD Questions Answered
What does ADHD stand for?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is sometimes called ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). It's currently classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder and a life-long condition affecting the brain and its executive functioning.
How to know if you have ADHD?
To determine if you have ADHD, a healthcare professional, usually a psychologist or psychiatrist, will assess your symptoms and medical history. They will consider whether you have a consistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that impacts your daily life. A diagnosis often involves questionnaires and interviews, and it's important to remember that ADHD symptoms can change over time
Can I self test for ADHD?
Yes you can. This is a really good first step if you aren't sure about your symptoms or what you want to do as a next step. Here is the official self test for ADHD with my tips for a more accurate reading.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD symptoms and the combination of these symptoms can vary from person to person.
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Symptoms can be less obvious if masking or coping strategies are in place.
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Men and women may present differently.
Below is a list of common ADHD symptoms:
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Impulsiveness
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Disorganisation and problem-prioritizing
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Poor time-management skills
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Problems focusing on a task
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Trouble multitasking
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Excessive activity or restlessness
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Poor planning
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Low frustration tolerance
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Frequent mood swings
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Problems following through and completing tasks
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Hot temper
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Trouble coping with stress
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Edward Hallowell a renowned Psychiatrist and Author of Driven To Distraction created a list of 100 ADHD questions that also help to work out if further assessment for ADHD is required. Here are 10 for you to try.
Do I need to disclose ADHD to my employer?
 No obligation to declare it — but disclosure can help with accommodations under local workplace laws
Where can I get professionally tested in Singapore?
Through public hospitals (e.g. IMH, KKH), private psychiatrists/psychologists
How much does an ADHD assessment cost here?
 Varies by clinic/type — public clinics are more affordable but have waiting times; private assessments cost more but are quicker
Which professionals diagnose ADHD?
 In Singapore there are various professionals that can assess, diagnose and provide support for ADHD. The titles given to these professionals and their roles can vary to the terms used in other countries. To help make this easier try my guide to Mental Health Professionals in Singapore.
Does ADHD run in families?
Research suggests that having a parent or sibling with ADHD increases the likelihood of developing the condition, further supporting the role of genetics. Whilst there is between a 68 -80% likely hood of ADHD being inherited - it is complex, involving contributions from both parents. Research suggests a polygenic nature, meaning multiple genes from both mother and father can influence ADHD risk. Read more about ADHD and Genes here.
Are ADHD and ADD the same thing?
Yes, "attention deficit disorder" is a term that has been replaced with "attention deficit hyperactivity disorder". My feeling is that in future this will change again to better reflect what we understand and how we look at people with this style of neurological responding.
TRUSTED Sources of Information
Is a compassionate organisation dedicated to supporting families and individuals navigating ADHD.
Unlocking ADHD is a Singapore-based organisation dedicated to supporting, educating, and empowering individuals with ADHD and their families.
CHADD is a nonprofit organisation providing education, advocacy, and support for individuals with ADHD and their families.
ADDitude is a leading ADHD resource offering expert articles, webinars, and tools for managing ADHD in children and adults.
