Overview
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a brain-based condition that affects how people pay attention, control impulses, and manage their activity level. It is not a sign of low intelligence or laziness. The brain in ADHD develops differently, particularly in areas that handle planning and self-control.
How common is it?
About 1 in 10 children has ADHD, and at least half of them continue to have it into adulthood, making it one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions worldwide.
Causes and risk factors
ADHD arises from differences in brain development and brain chemistry, especially involving dopamine and noradrenaline pathways. Genes play a strong role, but environmental factors can also influence how the condition develops.
Common risk factors
- Family history of ADHD
- Premature birth or low birth weight
- Exposure to lead or alcohol before birth
- Brain injury
- Stress during pregnancy
Symptoms
- Difficulty staying focused on tasks
- Easily distracted by sights or sounds
- Forgetting instructions or losing things
- Interrupting others mid-conversation
- Fidgeting or inability to sit still
- Acting without thinking of consequences
- Poor time management
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if attention or behaviour problems are consistently affecting school, work, or relationships. A formal assessment is needed for diagnosis since many other conditions can look like ADHD.
Diagnosis
A doctor or specialist takes a detailed history from the person and often from parents or teachers, uses standardised rating scales, and rules out other causes such as anxiety, sleep problems, or learning difficulties.
Treatments
Stimulant medication
Medicines like methylphenidate or amphetamine salts increase dopamine activity in the brain and reduce core ADHD symptoms in about 70-80% of people who try them.
Behavioural therapy
Teaches practical skills for planning, organisation, and impulse control. Particularly helpful for children when parents are also involved in the sessions.
Non-stimulant medication
Atomoxetine or guanfacine are options for people who do not respond to stimulants or experience troublesome side effects.
Self-care and lifestyle
- Break large tasks into small steps with short breaks between them
- Use timers, alarms, and written checklists rather than relying on memory
- Regular aerobic exercise improves concentration and mood
- Keep a consistent daily routine to reduce decision fatigue
Prevention
ADHD cannot be prevented, but early diagnosis and the right support at school and home can prevent many of the knock-on effects on self-esteem and academic achievement.