What Is ADHD?

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a condition that affects how the brain develops and works, especially in areas that manage attention, motivation, self-control, and organisation.

Research shows that ADHD is linked to differences in brain structure, chemistry, and how certain areas of the brain communicate. These differences can affect how a person plans, focuses, reacts, and regulates their behaviour and emotions.

ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, laziness, or lack of effort. It’s a neurodevelopmental condition - it usually presents from childhood and often continues into adulthood.

ADHD Symptoms Fall Into Three Areas:

Inattention

- Difficulty focusing or following instructions

- Forgetfulness or losing things

- Being easily distracted or zoning out

Hyperactivity

- Feeling restless or “on the go”

- Fidgeting, tapping, or trouble sitting still

- Talking a lot or struggling with quiet activities

Impulsivity

- Interrupting or blurting things out

- Acting without thinking

- Difficulty waiting or taking turns

ADHD can look different from one person to another. Some people experience more difficulties with focus and organisation, while others may struggle more with restlessness or impulsive behaviour. These patterns can also change over time. What ADHD looks like in childhood may feel very different in adulthood. It is not about one fixed set of traits, but how these characteristics appear and affect daily life for each individual.

What Might ADHD Look Like?

In Children, ADHD can show up as:

- Difficulty staying focused or following instructions

- Being easily distracted or forgetful

- Restlessness, fidgeting, or always “on the go”

- Impulsiveness: blurting out answers, interrupting, or struggling to wait

This can affect school performance, friendships, and home life.

In Teenagers, ADHD may include:

- Ongoing problems with concentration or task completion

- Poor time management or motivation

- Risk-taking behaviours (e.g. reckless driving, substance use)

- Emotional ups and downs, frustration, or irritability

It can affect relationships, self-esteem, and confidence.

In Adults, ADHD may show as:

- Disorganisation and difficulty starting or finishing tasks

- Trouble managing time, plans, or responsibilities

- Forgetfulness and distractibility in work or home life

- Impulsive behaviours; overspending, job-hopping, interrupting conversations

It can impact careers, relationships, and daily routines.

It’s Not Always Obvious

Many people with ADHD develop ways to “mask” or compensate for their difficulties. Outwardly, they may seem to manage—but inside, they may feel overwhelmed, scattered, or constantly behind.

ADHD can be overlooked in:

- High-achieving individuals

- Women and girls

- People with anxiety, autism, or other diagnoses

If things feel harder for you than they seem to be for others, it’s worth exploring.

Why Consider an Assessment?

An ADHD assessment helps:

- Make sense of long-standing difficulties.

- Understand your own patterns and challenges.

- Identify strengths and areas for support.

- Access adjustments at school, university, or work.

An accurate diagnosis can bring clarity and relief. It can help guide personalised strategies, services, and support to improve your daily life and wellbeing.