Emphasizing ADHD Strengths for Better Mental Health

Adults with ADHD who leverage their strengths—like creativity and intense focus—might find themselves happier and healthier, as suggested by a recent international study.

This research, involving scientists from the University of Bath, King’s College London, and Radboud University Medical Center in the Netherlands, is reportedly the first extensive study to examine psychological strengths in individuals with ADHD.

Published in Psychological Medicine, the study assessed 200 adults with ADHD compared to 200 without it. Participants reflected on their identification with 25 positive traits, including creativity and humor, which researchers described as “things [they] do well or best.”

From Problems to Strengths

ADHD is commonly associated with issues such as impulsivity and difficulty concentrating. However, these findings suggest a different angle, highlighting the value of recognizing and utilizing individual strengths.

Luca Hargitai, the primary researcher from the University of Bath’s Psychology Department, remarked, “These exciting findings indicate which positive traits may relate to ADHD, showcasing aspects that can empower individuals. While ADHD has its challenges, it can also come with various benefits.”

Common Strengths Among Adults with ADHD

The study found that individuals with ADHD were likelier than their neurotypical counterparts to identify with certain strengths, including:

• Hyperfocus (deep concentration on tasks of interest)
• Humor
• Creativity
• Spontaneity
• Intuition

Despite facing ongoing struggles in areas like work and relationships, adults with ADHD recognized their strengths just as frequently as those without the condition.

The Benefits of Recognizing Strengths

Across both groups, those who were more aware of and utilized their strengths reported clear benefits, including:

• Higher subjective well-being
• Improved quality of life (in physical, psychological, social, and environmental aspects)
• Fewer symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and stress

Dr. Punit Shah, a senior author and Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Bath, stated: “Our findings show that recognizing and applying our skills can enhance our well-being. This might seem straightforward, but having research to back it up enables us to develop psychological support with this new evidence.”

Rethinking ADHD Treatment Approaches

The findings align with a growing movement towards strengths-based methods in mental health care, a strategy that has gained traction in autism services but is not as prevalent for ADHD.

Possible applications of this approach could include psychoeducational programs, coaching, and individualized therapies aimed at helping individuals better acknowledge and use their strengths.

Dr. Shah added: “The next step is to explore whether interventions that focus on recognizing and utilizing personal strengths can lead to tangible improvements in mental well-being for those with ADHD. This is something individuals with ADHD have long been advocating for, and we are thrilled to offer supporting research.”

Broader Understanding of ADHD Strengths

Assistant Professor Martine Hoogman from Radboud University Medical Center noted that research in this field is still evolving.

“Research regarding strengths tied to ADHD is in its infancy. Many studies ask only those with ADHD about their strengths, but we also included neurotypical individuals. This approach revealed that people without ADHD also recognize many of the same strengths, although only those with ADHD affirm some of them. This contributes to a clearer understanding of ADHD-related strengths.”

“It’s crucial to educate those with ADHD not just about their challenges but also about their potential strengths to enhance their quality of life and mitigate risks in schooling or work.”

Reference: “The role of psychological strengths in positive life outcomes in adults with ADHD” by Luca D. Hargitai, Emma L. M. Laan, Lessa M. Schippers, Lucy A. Livingston, Graeme Fairchild, Punit Shah, and Martine Hoogman, 6 October 2025, Psychological Medicine.

The research was supported by the UK Economic and Social Research Council and the Dutch Research Council.