Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
ADHD is a condition where the brain works differently to others and this can affect things like; concentration, listening skills, energy levels, habit forming, working memory and many others can be different.
There is no known cause for ADHD however studies have shown there to be a genetic aspect.
Many people with ADHD may refer to themselves as Neurodivergent/neurodiverse.
Medication is only one of many ways the symptoms can be treated or managed:
- Psychological therapies (including; psychoeducational input, behavioural therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy [CBT] either alone or in groups)
- Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT)
- Social skills training
- Generally for children; family therapy, school-based interventions, parent or carer management training, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy.
- Medication
For more information on ADHD - Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - NHS
ADHD in children
Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age and may become more noticeable when a child's circumstances change, such as when they start school.
Most cases are diagnosed when children are under 12 years old, but sometimes it's diagnosed later in childhood.
(Links for info on ADHD in children)
ADHD in adults
Sometimes ADHD was not recognised when someone was a child, and they are diagnosed later as an adult.
Symptoms of ADHD can change with age and become more manageable as people mature and learn coping strategies, people are able to communicate their needs better, learn ways to make symptoms less noticeable (masking)
How to get a diagnosis of ADHD as an adult
You can contact your surgery online and request an ADHD referral
Alternatively, you can also use a screening tool: Adult ADHD Self Screening Tool - ADHD UK