​Koketso Maraba
 
Many adults in Gauteng are silently battling symptoms such as poor concentration, impulsive decisions, restlessness, and constant disorganisation. These are not signs of failure or personal weakness. 
They could be symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a condition often misunderstood and overlooked in adults. While ADHD is usually diagnosed in childhood, it can continue well into adulthood and affect every part of daily life, from work and parenting to relationships and mental well-being.
To address this growing concern, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has made services available across all levels of public healthcare to help adults get screened, diagnosed, and treated for ADHD. These services are now accessible at local clinics, and the process is simple, confidential, and often life changing.
When someone visits a clinic with concerns about ADHD, a trained healthcare provider begins by conducting a screening using a validated adult ADHD assessment tool. If the results suggest ADHD, a full assessment is carried out to confirm the diagnosis and check for other mental or physical health conditions. Once diagnosed, treatment is started right away
"Medication is available at both primary healthcare clinics and hospitals. But treatment does not stop there. The GDoH uses a biopsychosocial approach, which means that medication is combined with psychological support and social care. Counselling and therapy can be part of the treatment plan, and people with more serious symptoms may be referred to specialised psychiatric services within some public clinics", explained Dr Nokuthula Mdaka, Head of Unit at the District Specialist Mental Health Team at GDoH. 
Although support is growing, adult ADHD remains underdiagnosed in South Africa. Women are especially likely to be overlooked because their symptoms often appear in less obvious ways. Instead of hyperactivity, many women experience emotional overwhelm, disorganisation, or forgetfulness, which are harder to recognise as ADHD. As a result, many continue to suffer in silence.
Certain groups are more at risk. These include people with a family history of ADHD, those exposed to alcohol or drugs during pregnancy, individuals born prematurely or with low birth weight, and those exposed to environmental toxins early in life.
Without a diagnosis, ADHD can make life feel overwhelming. Many adults feel like they are always behind, struggling to keep up at work, maintain relationships, or manage everyday tasks. The condition is also closely linked with anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
By improving training for clinic staff, making medication available, and expanding access to counselling and psychiatric care, the Gauteng Department of Health is taking clear steps to support adults who may be living with undiagnosed ADHD.
"If you think you or someone you know may have ADHD, do not wait. Visit your local clinic and speak to a healthcare provider. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment can bring clarity, confidence, and control. Help is available, and it all starts with a conversation," said Dr Mdaka.