Does having ADHD mean you are less intelligent?

ADHD and intelligence are independent constructs — there is no systematic correlation between having ADHD and having lower intelligence. People with ADHD exist across the entire IQ spectrum, just like neurotypical people.

What often causes confusion: ADHD makes it harder to demonstrate what you know in structured settings (exams, deadline-driven assignments, meetings). Someone with ADHD can have deep knowledge of a topic they are interested in and still score poorly on a test about it, because the conditions of the test (time pressure, forced silence, no movement allowed) clash with how the ADHD brain works best.

Twice-exceptionality — high intellectual ability alongside ADHD — is more common than many people realize. People with very high IQs are often diagnosed late because their intelligence compensates for ADHD difficulties for years, until growing demands (college, cognitively demanding work) outpace their capacity to compensate.

Common strengths in ADHD: non-linear, creative thinking; the capacity for hyperfocus on areas of interest; resilience built over years of adapting; out-of-the-box thinking; high energy when engaged.