Medical Disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers regarding ADHD concerns.
Understanding ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects focus, impulse control, and activity levels. Although often diagnosed in childhood, it continues across the lifespan and manifests differently in each person.
What is ADHD?
According to the CDC, roughly 9.8% of U.S. children and 4.4% of adults live with ADHD. The condition is characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.
DSM-5 recognises three presentations: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. These presentations can shift over time.
Impact on Daily Life
Symptoms can influence academic performance, workplace productivity, relationships, self-esteem, and overall mental health. Effective management often requires a combination of behavioural strategies, environmental adjustments, psychoeducation, and when appropriate, medication.
- Time blindness & difficulty estimating how long tasks will take.
- Sensitivity to rejection or perceived criticism (RSD).
- Emotional dysregulation and mood swings.
- Chronic procrastination followed by bursts of hyperfocus.
DSM-5 Core Symptoms
The diagnostic criteria are organised into two main symptom clusters
Inattention
- Often overlooks details or makes careless mistakes.
- Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play.
- Appears not to listen when spoken to directly.
- Trouble organising tasks and activities.
- Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
Hyperactivity & Impulsivity
- Fidgets with or taps hands/feet or squirms in seat.
- Often runs about or feels restless in unsuitable situations.
- Difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly.
- Talks excessively or blurts out answers.
- Interrupts or intrudes on others' conversations or games.
Additional Clues Beyond the DSM
While not included in formal diagnostic criteria, clinicians and researchers have identified patterns that frequently co-occur with ADHD and may prompt further assessment:
Neurobiology & Causes
ADHD is highly heritable (h2 ≈ 0.74) and linked to structural and functional differences in the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, and cerebellum. Dopaminergic and noradrenergic pathways—crucial for executive functioning—are implicated (Faraone et al., 2021).
- Genetic variants in DRD4, DAT1, and SNAP25.
- Prenatal influences: tobacco exposure, stress, prematurity.
- Environmental factors: lead, traumatic brain injury, severe early adversity.
Diagnosis & Assessment
A comprehensive evaluation blends clinical interviews with collateral information. No single test can confirm ADHD.
- Standardised rating scales (e.g., Conners, ASRS, SNAP).
- Developmental & psychosocial history, including perinatal factors.
- Screening for comorbidities (anxiety, mood, substance use, ASD).
- Physical examination & vision/hearing screening to rule out mimickers.
Treatment Options
Multimodal management—combining pharmacological and psychosocial interventions—yields the best outcomes.
- Stimulants: methylphenidate, amphetamine formulations.
- Non-stimulants: atomoxetine, guanfacine, clonidine.
- Therapy: Cognitive-behavioural therapy & skills-based coaching.
- Behavioural: Parent training & classroom interventions for children.
- Lifestyle: Sleep hygiene, exercise, and mindful awareness practices.
Across the Lifespan
Symptom expression evolves: hyperactivity often wanes in adulthood, while executive dysfunction and emotional impulsivity may persist.
- Children: academic under-achievement, peer difficulties.
- Adolescents: driving risks, substance experimentation.
- Adults: occupational instability, relationship stress.
- Older adults: under-recognised; may be misattributed to cognitive decline.
Finding Support & Treatment
A comprehensive treatment plan is unique to each individual. Speak with qualified healthcare professionals to explore medication, coaching, therapy, and workplace or academic accommodations.
Professional Help
Psychiatrists, psychologists, & ADHD-informed therapists.
Peer Communities
Support groups and online forums foster shared experience.
Evidence-Based Resources
Websites, books, and podcasts curated by clinicians.