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Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD)

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 it is usually normal for children and young people to experience some hyperactivity, dysregulated emotions and difficulty sustaining attention, these symptoms may be a sign of ADHD if they persist, occur across multiple domains, and impact their functioning.

If the below symptoms are representative of yours or your young person’s difficulties, please see our Assessments Page, or see more information specifically for ADHD Assessments.

Hyperactivity

  • Fidgets with or taps hands or feet
  • Squirms in seat – ‘ants in their pants’
  • Leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected
  • Runs about or climbs in inappropriate situations
  • Talks excessively
  • Feels as though they are being run by a motor – ‘energiser bunny’

Inattention

  • Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
  • Frequently makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities
  • Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
  • Struggles to follow through on instructions and fails to finish tasks
  • Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

Impulsivity

  • Blurts out answers before questions have been asked
  • Difficulty waiting their turn
  • Interrupts or intrudes on others

How Does ADHD Affect 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.

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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What are the Treatment & Support Options for ADHD?

Is ADHD Different for Girls/Women?

Distracted girl learning at home with her mother

ADHD often presents differently in girls compared to boys, making it less likely to be recognised and diagnosed. Girls with ADHD tend to display more subtle symptoms that can be overlooked or misattributed to other conditions.

  • Inattentiveness: Girls are more likely to experience the inattentive subtype of ADHD, struggling with focus, organisation, and following instructions.

  • Internalising Symptoms: Rather than external hyperactivity, girls often internalise their struggles, which may contribute 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: Because their symptoms are often less disruptive and more internalised, girls are frequently misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression, delaying proper ADHD identification and support.

Recognising ADHD in girls is essential for ensuring they receive the right interventions. Early identification and tailored support can significantly improve their well-being and daily functioning.

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