What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
While commonly associated with children, it is estimated that up to two thirds of children affected by hyperactivity disorders continue to have problems into adulthood, impacting daily life, relationships, education, and work.
It is not simply about being inattentive or overly energetic—ADHD is a complex condition that varies widely between individuals.
What are the Symptoms of ADHD?
While not uncommon for young people to display hyperactivity, dysregulation, and inattention, these symptoms may be a sign of ADHD if persistent, occur across multiple domains, and impact their functioning.
Hyperactivity
- Fidgets with hands or feet
- Squirms or leaves seat – ‘ants in their pants’ when sitting is expected
- Runs and climbs inappropriately
- Talks excessively
- 'Being run by a motor'
Inattention
- Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks/activities
- Careless mistakes
- Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
- Struggles to follow through on instructions and tasks
- Easily distracted
Impulsivity
- Blurts out answers before questions have been asked
- Difficulty waiting their turn
- Interrupts or intrudes on others
How Does ADHD Impact Daily Life?
Symptoms often present differently in children compared to adults.
While children may struggle with focus at school or excessive movement, adults may experience difficulties with time management, organisation, and maintaining focus in work and personal life.
Left unaddressed, ADHD can impact various aspects of life, including:
Education & Work: Struggles with focus, deadlines, and organisation.
Relationships: Challenges with communication, impulsivity, and emotional regulation.
Mental Health: Increased risk of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem due to ongoing difficulties in managing everyday responsibilities.
Daily Functioning: Difficulties with time management, prioritisation, and maintaining routines.
Is ADHD Different for Girls/Women
Girls with ADHD tend to display more subtle symptoms that can be less likely to be recognised or misattributed to other conditions.
Inattentiveness: Girls are more likely to struggle with focus, organisation, and following instructions.
Internalising Symptoms: Girls with ADHD may internalise their struggles, contributing to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Social Difficulties: Girls with ADHD may find social interactions challenging, appearing shy, withdrawn, or struggling to maintain friendships.
Underdiagnosis and Misdiagnosis: As their symptoms are often less disruptive, girls are sometimes misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression, delaying proper ADHD identification and support.
Recognising ADHD in girls is essential for ensuring they receive the right interventions.
What are the Treatment & Support Options for ADHD?
Those with ADHD are often exposed to years of negative feedback about their behaviour and suffer educational and social disadvantage, where they are sometimes perceived as the ‘naughty child’.
Managing ADHD involves a personalised approached based on individual needs, which may include:
Psychological Therapy:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches can help with emotional regulation, coping strategies, and behaviour management.
Medication:
Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can be prescribed if appropriate, following professional evaluation.
Lifestyle Adjustments:
Exercise, structured routines, and mindfulness practices can aid in symptom management.
Occupational and Educational Support:
Workplace accommodations and school-based interventions can improve focus and productivity.
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