Condition : ADHD

Condition ADHD

What is ADHD?

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is not an illness or disease, and it is not linked to intelligence. It is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means your brain develops and works differently to others’. Symptoms usually start before the age of 12.

If you have ADHD, you may be inattentive (have trouble with concentration), hyperactive (have high energy levels), and impulsive (struggle to control your urges and think before acting).

You might have symptoms of both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive type or only show signs of one type.

Symptoms of the inattentive type include:

being easily distracted or forgetful
finding it hard to organise your time
finding it hard to follow instructions or finish tasks
losing things often, like your wallet, mobile, or keys
forgetting everyday tasks, like brushing your teeth

Signs of the hyperactive-impulsive type include:

having a lot of energy or feeling restless
being very talkative or interrupting conversations
making quick decisions without thinking about what might happen as a result

Women and girls with ADHD more commonly have inattentive symptoms which can be harder to recognise. This means ADHD isn’t identified in women and girls as often as it is in men and boys.

In children, particularly when they’re under the age of five, signs of being tired, anxious, or stressed may include getting easily distracted or being impulsive, which can be confused with ADHD.

People with ADHD may be more likely to have mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, and are at higher risk of suicide.

What causes ADHD?

The cause of ADHD is not always known, but it may be caused by:

genetic differences (meaning it runs in families)
being born premature (before 37 weeks of pregnancy)
having epilepsy
a brain injury
being autistic

Next steps

Step 1. Check out our advice

Browse our advice and resources to learn more about your condition and ways to manage it.

Step 2. Contact a Healthcare Professional

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Step 3. View our services

Discover services and support options available to help you with your health and wellbeing.

Managing your health

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ADHD Service

Adults

Diagnostic assessments, medication, and support for adults who suspect they might have, or who have been diagnosed with, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

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