Is ADHD Hereditary or Genetic?

Is ADHD hereditary or genetic in Australia?

Here is what the Australian ADHD Guideline and healthdirect say about genes and ADHD.

• The Australian ADHD Guideline states ADHD is highly heritable in children and adults, with heritability estimated at 70–80% (Australian ADHD Guideline).
• healthdirect states that genetic studies show ADHD is an inherited disorder (healthdirect).
• The same guideline notes that a genome-wide association meta-analysis identified 12 independent genomic loci, meaning places in the genome, that increase susceptibility to ADHD.
• ADHD is common: around 6–8% of children and 3–5% of adults in Australia have it, which is more than 1 million Australians (Australian ADHD Guideline GP factsheet).

ADHD genetic link: what the research shows

These research terms help explain the figures the guideline reports.

Heritability describes a group of people in a study, so ask your specialist what it means for your own family rather than reading it as a personal percentage.

ADHD genes: is there one gene for ADHD?

The guideline reports 12 independent genomic loci that increase susceptibility, not a single gene. These points help when you read about ADHD genes online.

• Treat any claim that one gene explains ADHD with caution, because the guideline describes multiple independent loci that each increase susceptibility.
• Remember that increased susceptibility is not a diagnosis, so carrying a variation does not tell anyone they have ADHD.
• Look for the official Australian guideline or healthdirect when you want a reliable summary, rather than social media posts or product pages.
• Ask your GP before paying for any genetic test marketed for ADHD, and ask what question the test is meant to answer.

MTHFR gene and ADHD: what to ask your doctor

If you have read claims about an MTHFR gene mutation and ADHD, these steps can help you get a reliable answer.

1. 1Write down what you read. Note the claim and where you saw it, such as a test or supplement advertisement.
2. 2Ask a GP or specialist. They can explain whether any testing is relevant to your situation and what the results would mean.
3. 3Keep medicines and supplements as they are. Do not start, stop or change any medicine or supplement because of something you read about MTHFR; talk to your GP, paediatrician, psychiatrist or pharmacist first.
4. 4Check a reliable source. Use the Australian ADHD Guideline as your reference point for what is known about the genetic side of ADHD.

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Is ADHD only hereditary or genetic? Other factors that may contribute

Strong heritability does not mean genes are the whole story. healthdirect lists several environmental factors that may contribute.

• Maternal smoking during pregnancy is listed by healthdirect as a factor that may contribute to ADHD.
• Maternal drinking during pregnancy is also listed as a possible contributor, alongside premature birth and low birth weight.
• Lead exposure and early childhood trauma are the other environmental factors healthdirect names as possible contributors.
• healthdirect says these factors “may contribute”, and they are not a reason to blame a parent. Our guide to what causes ADHD goes further.

Can ADHD be passed down genetically in families?

healthdirect describes ADHD as an inherited disorder, and the guideline describes it as highly heritable. What this looks like varies from family to family.

• Siblings can differ from one another, and a family history is not proof that a particular child has or will have ADHD.
• If you wonder whether ADHD can skip a generation, a GP or specialist can talk through your family history with you.
• Write down what you know about relatives’ attention, learning and work or school experiences, and bring it to the appointment.

Is ADHD a genetic disorder? Words that respect the person

Sources use different words, and you may see ADHD called an inherited or genetic disorder. Some people prefer to describe ADHD as part of how their brain works.

• Choose the wording that suits you or your family member; both “person with ADHD” and “ADHD person” are used.
• Know that a genetic basis says nothing about a person’s worth, effort or character.
• Read about strengths as well as challenges in our guide to ADHD strengths and weaknesses.
• See whether ADHD fits the neurodivergent label by reading is ADHD neurodivergent.

Is ADHD genetically inherited like other conditions?

The answer differs from one condition to the next. These guides cover related questions.

When to talk to a GP or specialist

Having a relative with ADHD is not a reason to panic. These are good reasons to book an appointment.

• You notice attention, activity or impulse difficulties that affect daily life, school, work or relationships, and they have lasted for some time.
• A child’s teacher or carer raises concerns, and your family history includes ADHD.
• You are an adult who recognises your own experiences in a relative’s diagnosis and want to ask about an assessment.
• You have questions about genetic tests, supplements or MTHFR claims and want advice from someone who knows your health history.
• You feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start; healthdirect’s registered nurses are available on 1800 022 222, 24 hours a day, and the ADHD Foundation lists 1300 39 39 19.

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or self-harm, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Call 000 if anyone is in immediate danger.

TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.

Your next step

If ADHD runs in your family and you want practical help at home or in the community, we are here. TQN Care support workers assist with daily routines, personal care, community access and respite if you meet the NDIS access requirements. Explore our NDIS services or make a referral, and we will call you back to talk about what would help.