Masking and Late Diagnosis in Adults with ADHD
Event Details
Date: Sunday, June 7th
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Lenexa City Center Library, Meeting Room 2
Many adults with ADHD have spent years hiding or compensating for their symptoms—often without even realizing it.
Masking can develop as a survival strategy to manage daily challenges, avoid judgment, or meet societal expectations. While these coping strategies may help in the short term, long-term masking can contribute to:
Burnout and chronic exhaustion
Anxiety or depression
Low self-esteem
Identity confusion
Difficulty recognizing personal needs
For many adults, receiving an ADHD diagnosis later in life can bring a complex mix of emotions, including relief, grief, validation, anger, and a reevaluation of past struggles.
Join Us for an Open and Supportive Discussion
In this ADHDKC Adult Group session, we’ll explore:
What masking can look like in adults with ADHD
Why masking often develops
The emotional and mental health effects of prolonged masking
The unique experience of late ADHD diagnosis
How diagnosis can reshape self-understanding and future growth
Shared experiences, strategies, and community support
Whether you were recently diagnosed, have been navigating ADHD for years, or are still questioning your experiences, this group offers a welcoming space for reflection, connection, and learning.
Important Notes
This event is free and open to the public.
ADHDKC is a nonprofit organization run by volunteers and dedicated to providing education, support, and community connection.
This session is designed for educational and peer support purposes only and does not provide medical, psychological, or mental health treatment or advice.
Participation in discussion is always optional
Listening is welcome
Personal stories and shared strategies are encouraged
Treatment recommendations will not be provided
The group is facilitated by a licensed mental health professional to help maintain a safe, supportive, and respectful environment.
While we hope attendees gain valuable insights, practical tools, and meaningful connection, this event is not a substitute for therapy, diagnosis, or medical treatment.
You Are Not Alone
If you’ve spent years wondering why life has felt harder than it seemed for others—or if you’re learning to understand yourself through a new ADHD lens—this event is an opportunity to connect with others who truly understand.
Come as you are. Share if you’d like. Listen if you prefer.
We look forward to seeing you there.
New This Fall: ADHDKC Book Club
Looking for another way to connect with the ADHDKC community?
Starting in August, we’ll be introducing our first-ever Book Club—a flexible, engaging opportunity to explore meaningful books while building supportive conversations.
No pressure. No perfection. Just learning, connection, and community.
More information coming soon! Until then, join the online community from our Groups Page to be among the first to learn updates, start sharing what you’re reading, and building a community.