Is ADHD Inherited?

ADHD is often spoken about in terms of how it affects day-to-day life: focus, organisation, relationships, work or school. But many people also wonder where it comes from in the first place. Is it something you’re born with? Is it inherited from parents? And what role do environmental influences play? If you or someone in your family has been diagnosed with ADHD – or you suspect it might be the case – it’s completely natural to want to understand the ‘why’ behind it all. In this blog, Beyond Clinics dive into what we know – and what we don’t.

Is ADHD Genetic?

In short, yes – ADHD has a strong genetic basis. Research consistently shows that it tends to run in families. If one parent has ADHD, their child is significantly more likely to develop it too compared to children of parents without the condition. Twin studies offer some of the strongest evidence. Identical twins, who share 100% of their genes, are more likely to both have ADHD compared to fraternal twins, who share about 50% of their DNA. This suggests that genetics play a key role, although it's not the whole story.

Researchers have identified several genes associated with ADHD, particularly those involved in the regulation of dopamine – a brain chemical that affects attention, motivation, and impulse control. Variations in genes such as DRD4 and DAT1 have been linked to an increased risk, though no single gene causes ADHD outright. Instead, it’s the cumulative effect of multiple genes that increases the likelihood of developing the condition. Estimates suggest that ADHD is around 70-80% heritable, making it one of the most strongly inherited mental health conditions. However, genetics are just one part of the picture.

Can You Inherit ADHD from Mum or Dad?

ADHD can be inherited from either parent. There isn’t strong evidence suggesting it’s more likely to come from one over the other. Both maternal and paternal genes contribute, and studies show that ADHD in either parent is a strong predictor of the condition in children. This means that if you’ve noticed traits in yourself or your partner that align with ADHD, even if you’ve never been diagnosed, it’s worth considering how that might relate to your child’s experiences. Similarly, looking at siblings, cousins, or even grandparents might reveal patterns that were previously overlooked.

Is ADHD Something You’re Born With?

The answer is: mostly, yes. But it’s more nuanced than that. ADHD tends to emerge in early childhood and has a clear biological basis. But whether those genetic tendencies actually lead to ADHD depends in part on environmental factors. For example, someone with a genetic predisposition might never develop ADHD symptoms if they aren’t exposed to certain environmental stressors. Here are a few key influences:

Pre-natal Factors.

Exposure to tobacco smoke, alcohol, or certain drugs during pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of ADHD in children. So too is high maternal stress and complications such as premature birth or low birth weight.

Early Life Experiences.

Traumatic experiences, neglect, or exposure to lead and other toxins in early childhood can increase ADHD risk. That said, these experiences don’t cause ADHD on their own. However, they may trigger symptoms in someone who’s already genetically vulnerable.

Diet and Nutrition.

There’s ongoing debate about the role of diet. Some research suggests that deficiencies in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and zinc may be linked to ADHD symptoms, while others point to sugar or artificial additives as potential triggers in sensitive individuals. While diet isn’t the root cause, it may influence how symptoms are expressed.

What About Epigenetics?

Epigenetics refers to how life experiences can affect how our genes are expressed. It’s a relatively new area of ADHD research, but it’s helping explain why two people with similar genetics might have very different outcomes. For example, a child may inherit a genetic tendency toward ADHD, but only go on to develop it if their environment also contributes to it. Researchers are exploring how stress, trauma, and even parenting styles might impact the way ADHD-related genes are ‘switched on or off’.

Recognising ADHD in Families.

Because ADHD often runs in families, it’s worth looking at generational patterns. Perhaps a grandparent was known for being forgetful or disorganised, or an aunt was described as always being on the go or struggling at school. In previous generations, ADHD may have gone unrecognised or been misunderstood. Signs to look out for in adults and older individuals can include:

• Chronic disorganisation

• Impulsive decision-making

• Trouble maintaining focus

• Difficulty managing time

Even if a parent or relative has never had a formal diagnosis, recognising these traits can be helpful. Understanding your family's history might help you or your child get the right support. Further, family history plays a key role during assessment, so sharing information about relatives with similar traits can really help clinicians build a clearer picture.

Looking Forward: What the Research Tells Us.

Research into ADHD is ongoing, and scientists are learning more all the time. New studies are identifying specific genes involved in ADHD, investigating how brain structure and function differ in people with the condition. It’s a hopeful and fast-moving area of research and, most importantly, it’s helping to make support more accessible, evidence-based, and tailored to individuals.

So, is ADHD inherited? The answer is: very often, yes. Genetics play a significant role, but they don’t tell the whole story. Environment, life experiences, and even diet all interact with those genetic traits to shape how ADHD develops and presents. If you’re noticing patterns across generations in your family, it might be worth exploring further. A professional assessment can offer clarity and open the door to helpful, practical support. At Beyond Clinics, we offer compassionate, in-depth ADHD assessments and ongoing support to help individuals and families manage ADHD with confidence. You’re not alone, and support is always within reach.