Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often misunderstood. Many people still associate it with children who cannot sit still in the classroom, but as Ken Kilbride, CEO of ADHD Ireland, explained on Disability Matters, the reality is far more complex.
In a fascinating conversation with John Comiskey, Ken discusses what ADHD really is, why it affects people throughout their lives, and why understanding—not judgement—is the key to helping people thrive.
More than “being distracted”
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects approximately 5% of children and around 3% of adults in Ireland. It is primarily genetic and often runs in families.
“ADHD isn’t about a lack of attention,” Ken explains. “People with ADHD have the same ability to focus as anyone else. The challenge is maintaining that focus when the brain is constantly processing everything happening around them.”
Rather than viewing ADHD simply as a disorder, Ken encourages people to think of it as a different way the brain operates.
“It’s not better or worse—it’s different.”
Breaking old stereotypes
One of the biggest myths surrounding ADHD is that it only affects energetic young boys.
While boys are often diagnosed earlier because their symptoms are more visible, many girls go undiagnosed for years.
“Girls often present differently,” Ken explains. “They may appear quiet, dreamy or inattentive rather than disruptive, which means they’re often overlooked.”
Without early recognition, many girls later experience anxiety, depression and low self-esteem before discovering that ADHD has been the underlying cause all along.
ADHD lasts a lifetime
Contrary to popular belief, ADHD does not disappear after childhood.
Many adults continue living with the condition, often developing coping strategies that mask their symptoms for years.
For many, the structure of everyday life helped them manage—until the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routines.
“When structure disappeared,” Ken says, “many adults suddenly realised they were struggling with organisation, planning and attention in ways they couldn’t explain.”
That led thousands to seek assessment for the first time.
Challenges—and remarkable strengths
Throughout the interview, Ken emphasises that ADHD brings both challenges and strengths.
Many people with ADHD excel in creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship.
“They’re often the people who ask, ‘What if we tried something different?'”
Because their brains naturally think outside conventional patterns, people with ADHD are highly represented in creative professions including design, music, comedy, business and technology.
“Society benefits enormously from people who think differently.”
Why diagnosis matters
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis can be life-changing.
For many families, it finally provides answers after years of confusion and frustration.
“It helps people understand that they’re not lazy or failing,” Ken explains. “Their brain simply works differently.”
Early diagnosis allows children and adults to access the right supports, build confidence and develop practical strategies that make everyday life easier.
Support beyond medication
Ken stresses that medication is only one part of ADHD support—and not always the first step.
Research consistently shows the best outcomes come from combining appropriate medical treatment, where needed, with education, behavioural supports, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and family support.
“Medication alone never solves ADHD,” he says. “Understanding the condition and learning strategies to manage it are just as important.”
The work of ADHD Ireland
Founded by parents over forty years ago, ADHD Ireland has grown into the country’s leading support organisation for people living with ADHD.
The organisation provides:
- Parent education programmes
- Adult ADHD courses
- Peer support groups
- Information sessions
- Teacher training
- School accreditation programmes
- Workplace awareness
- Free educational events throughout the year
Today, ADHD Ireland runs around 600 events annually, helping thousands of families better understand and manage the condition.
Creating ADHD-friendly schools
One of ADHD Ireland’s most exciting initiatives is its ADHD-Friendly Schools Accreditation Programme.
Recognising that teachers are often the first people to notice signs of ADHD, the programme helps schools create more inclusive learning environments where children can reach their full potential.
Rather than expecting every child to fit the same model, the programme encourages schools to adapt their approaches to meet different learning needs.
Looking to the future
ADHD Ireland’s new Strategic Plan (2026–2030) sets out an ambitious vision—not simply improving services, but creating a society where neurodiversity is understood, valued and celebrated.
Ken believes that the biggest barrier isn’t ADHD itself.
“The biggest challenge isn’t having ADHD—it’s how society responds to people with ADHD.”
This inspiring conversation reminds us that greater awareness leads to earlier diagnosis, better support and stronger communities where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. For more information about ADHD Ireland, its services and upcoming events, visit adhdireland.ie.
Read more: Beyond the Myths: How ADHD Ireland Empowers Children, Adults, and Families
This interview aired on Disability Matters on 92.5 Phoenix FM, a programme produced by Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL).
Tune in to Disability Matters Thursdays at 4PM | Repeats: Mon 3AM, Tue 3AM & 7AM | Also available on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.
Compiled by Valentyna Hordiichuk