Is There a Link Between Imposter Syndrome and ADHD

One area I’ve become particularly interested in is the link between ADHD and imposter syndrome. Many people with ADHD—especially those diagnosed later in life—struggle with persistent self-doubt, inconsistent performance, and a nagging sense that they’re not truly capable, even in the face of clear accomplishments. Years of undiagnosed symptoms often lead to internalised beliefs like "I’m lazy" or "I’m not trying hard enough," which can feed directly into imposter feelings. Understanding this connection is crucial, not only for personal healing but also for supporting others who are silently battling the same invisible weight.

Is There a Link Between Imposter Syndrome and ADHD

What makes imposter syndrome so complex for individuals with ADHD is the deep-rooted inconsistency that often characterises our performance. One day we might accomplish a long to-do list, operate at a high level of creativity and focus, and appear "high functioning" to the outside world. But the next day, we can find ourselves paralysed by overwhelm, unable to complete even the simplest of tasks. This contrast can create a painful cognitive dissonance: how can I be capable and yet so chaotic? That internal conflict can leave us feeling like frauds, despite tangible evidence of success.

Not Trying Hard Enough? The Lingering Echoes of ADHD Misunderstanding

People with ADHD tend to internalise years of criticism—both from others and themselves. Many of us grew up hearing phrases like "you’re not living up to your potential" or "why can’t you just try harder?" These comments often come from a place of misunderstanding, but over time, they become a part of our inner dialogue. Even after diagnosis, it can be hard to shake the feeling that we’re simply making excuses, rather than acknowledging a very real neurological condition.

Masking, Perfectionism, and the Price of Being Overlooked

This is especially true for women, who are so often misdiagnosed or overlooked entirely. Because ADHD in girls and women tends to manifest less through hyperactivity and more through emotional dysregulation, inattentiveness, and perfectionism, it often flies under the radar. Many of us learn to overcompensate—developing elaborate coping mechanisms, masking our symptoms, or pushing ourselves to exhaustion just to appear like we have it all together. When success does come, it feels fragile, like something we’ve snuck in through the back door. We rarely own it. Instead, we brace for the moment we’ll be "found out."

Seeing the Patterns: How Psychology Is Helping Me To Understand Myself—and Others

Studying psychology while living with ADHD is allowing me to see this pattern clearly—not only in myself but in others I’ve connected with along the way. It’s also helping me recognise that imposter syndrome is not a personal failing. It’s a symptom of systemic misunderstanding, lack of support, and the invisibility that so many neurodivergent people experience. My hope is that through education, advocacy, and storytelling, we can begin to reframe these narratives—not just for ourselves, but for future generations.

Beyond the Books: A Journey of Healing, Learning, and Advocacy

So yes, this master’s degree is about more than just career development. It’s about building a foundation of empathy-informed knowledge. It’s about shining a light on what’s been hidden for too long. And it’s about turning pain into purpose, for myself and for anyone else who has ever felt like they didn’t quite fit the mold.

Tracey xXx