Written by Lisa Edmondson – Nurse, Women’s Health and Hormone Specialist and Master Holistic Health Coach
At Global Health in Takapuna, Auckland, we’re seeing more people across New Zealand being diagnosed with ADHD — and more awareness than ever before. ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, affects focus, organisation, and emotional balance, but it can look very different in men and women. From a holistic perspective, we explore both common and lesser-known signs, and share natural strategies to help you feel more focused, calm, and in control.
We’re living in a time where ADHD is not only being diagnosed more often, but it’s also being recognised and acknowledged in ways it hasn’t been before. For decades, many people lived with ADHD without a name for what they were experiencing. Now, as understanding grows and stigma reduces, more children, teenagers, and adults are finding answers — and ways forward.
As someone who has worked both as a health coach and in New Zealand’s education system as a teacher, I’ve seen first-hand how ADHD can affect learning, relationships, and everyday life. I’ve also seen the relief that comes when people finally feel understood.
Why ADHD is Being Recognised More Often
There are a few reasons for the increase in diagnoses. Awareness is one — both in the medical community and among the public. Teachers, parents, and employers are better informed, which means more people are being referred for assessment. Social media and online communities have also played a role, giving people a chance to recognise their own experiences in others’ stories.
Another reason is that our understanding of ADHD has evolved. It’s no longer seen purely as a childhood condition linked only to hyperactivity. We now know it can present differently in different people, and it often continues into adulthood.
The Difference Between Men and Women with ADHD
One of the most important shifts in recent years is recognising how ADHD shows up differently in men and women.
Boys are more likely to be diagnosed in childhood. That’s because symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour are more visible in a school environment and more likely to draw attention.
For girls, ADHD often looks different. It can show up as daydreaming, difficulty focusing, disorganisation, and emotional sensitivity — signs that can be mistaken for anxiety, stress, or simply “not trying hard enough.” Because these symptoms are less disruptive in the classroom, they can go unnoticed. Many women aren’t diagnosed until adulthood, sometimes after their own children are assessed and similarities are recognised.
Common and Less Common Signs of ADHD
ADHD can look different for everyone, but here are some common signs:
- Finding it hard to stay focused or keep attention on one task
- Feeling restless or “on the go”
- Acting on impulse before thinking things through
- Struggling with organisation and time management
- Forgetting details or losing things
- Starting projects but finding it difficult to finish them
Some less common — but equally important — experiences can include:
- Hyperfocus on certain activities or interests
- Emotional overwhelm or sensitivity
- Difficulty regulating sleep patterns
- Feeling mentally “foggy” or scattered
- Struggles with motivation despite wanting to achieve goals
A Holistic Perspective on ADHD
From a holistic point of view, ADHD isn’t just about attention — it’s about how the brain, body, and environment interact. Lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress levels, physical activity, and emotional wellbeing can all influence how ADHD symptoms show up.
As a health coach, I see the best results when we look at the whole person, not just the label. This means working with strengths as well as challenges, and finding practical strategies that fit into everyday life.
Lifestyle Medicine Strategies for Managing ADHD
Here are some evidence-informed, lifestyle-based approaches that can make a real difference:
- Nutrition for Brain Health – Eating balanced meals with plenty of whole foods, quality proteins, healthy fats, and slow-release carbohydrates can support stable energy and focus. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, may be beneficial for brain function.
- Movement and Exercise – Regular physical activity can help improve mood, focus, and emotional regulation. Even short bursts of movement during the day can make a difference.
- Sleep Hygiene – ADHD can make it harder to wind down at night. Consistent sleep and wake times, reducing screen time before bed, and creating a calming bedtime routine can help.
- Mindfulness and Stress Management – Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can reduce overwhelm and improve attention.
- Structured Routines – Clear, predictable routines can reduce decision fatigue and make it easier to stay organised.
- Breaking Tasks into Smaller Steps – Smaller, manageable goals can prevent overwhelm and build momentum.
Living Well with ADHD
At Global Health Clinics, we are proud to be New Zealand’s leading holistic health clinic, supporting thousands of clients with ADHD over the years. Our approach combines advanced assessment tools, such as comprehensive epigenetic profiling, with personalised lifestyle medicine strategies to address each person’s unique needs. We focus on more than just managing symptoms — we look at the whole picture, including nutrition, sleep, hormonal balance, emotional wellbeing, and stress management. Our experienced team works alongside you to create practical, sustainable changes that support focus, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life, helping you navigate daily challenges with greater ease and confidence.
ADHD doesn’t have to hold you back. With understanding, the right support, and practical lifestyle strategies, it’s possible to feel more in control and confident. The goal isn’t to “fix” ADHD — it’s to create a life where your strengths shine and your challenges are supported.
Whether you’re a parent supporting a child, an adult newly diagnosed, or someone who has known about your ADHD for years, there are natural, holistic ways to work with your brain — not against it. And the first step is knowing that you’re not alone.
Discover how our personalised approach can help you manage ADHD naturally — Book a Consultation Today