Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects a person’s ability to focus, control impulses, and manage energy levels.
ADHD commonly starts in childhood and can continue into adulthood, though its symptoms and impacts can vary widely from person to person.
ADHD is a difference in the way important chemical messages get around the brain and this changes how the brain regulates itself - for example making it harder to:
- Block out distractions
- Work out what is important and focus on it
- Wait and think things through before acting
- Control impulses or the urge to do something
- Calm yourself when excited or cross
- Keep energy levels stable and not fidget
It is also not unusual for someone with ADHD to have some sensory needs, movements / noises they are not able to control (tics), less need for sleep and to have found their own way of doing things that works for them.
ADHD commonly starts in childhood and can continue into adulthood, though its symptoms and impacts can vary widely from person to person. It affects 5-7% of the population.
Do we all have ADHD?
Everyone has ADHD-type symptoms when a young child: not concentrating, ‘always on the go’, not regulate emotions and so have tantrums, be impulsive etc. This is part of normal development. As we grow older we learn to regulate, but in ADHD the chemical changes in the brain make this much harder. ADHD usually improves by the time of adulthood, but whether this is due to the chemicals changing or because strategies have been learnt to manage it successfully is not clear. ADHD can persist as an adult.
Note: if a child’s development is delayed for any reason, any ADHD type symptoms may be normal for stage their brain is at.
Key Characteristics of ADHD:
ADHD is typically divided into three types based on the main symptoms: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.
Inattentive Type (often referred to as ADD):
- Difficulty focusing or paying attention to details.
- Easily distracted by surroundings or unrelated thoughts.
- Frequently loses items like school materials, keys, or phones.
- Struggles to follow through on tasks or instructions.
- May appear forgetful or disorganised in daily activities.
Hyperactive-Impulsive Type:
- Fidgets, taps hands or feet, or has trouble sitting still.
- Feels restless and is often "on the go."
- Talks excessively or interrupts others during conversations.
- Acts without thinking, which can lead to risky behaviour.
- Struggles with waiting for their turn or staying seated in class.
Combined Type:
- A mix of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
Strengths in ADHD:
- Creativity and Innovation: Many individuals with ADHD have a unique way of thinking that allows for out-of-the-box solutions and innovative ideas.
- High Energy and Enthusiasm: People with ADHD can be energetic, passionate, and spontaneous.
- Hyperfocus: While focusing on mundane tasks can be difficult, some individuals with ADHD experience "hyperfocus" on activities they find interesting, allowing them to dive deeply into subjects or projects.
ADHD Diagnosis:
ADHD is usually diagnosed in childhood, although some individuals may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood. A diagnosis is based on a combination of behavioural observations, developmental history, and sometimes standardised assessments.
Teachers, parents, or healthcare providers may notice patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning at school, home, or work. Someone with ADHD has symptoms which are noticed in >1 setting, for example home and school.
Treatment and Support for ADHD:
There are many ways to support individuals to manage ADHD. This can include:
- Behavioural Therapy: Helps individuals develop strategies for managing impulsivity, organising tasks, and staying focused.
- Medications: Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can help regulate attention and behaviour; however, medications are not required in all cases, and particularly should not be prescribed for younger children under the age of 5.
- School and Workplace Accommodations: Adjustments such as extra time for tasks, movement breaks, or modified workspaces can be helpful.
People with ADHD can lead successful, fulfilling lives with the right combination of support and strategies tailored to their strengths and challenges.
A diagnosis of ADHD is not required to get support and have adjustments made in school, college, university or work to make life more comfortable in these settings.
Some useful resources from Nottinghamshire Healthcare Foundation Trust can be found here Resources | Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
For more information about ADHD watch the short videos below.