Problems with focus can seriously affect children and adults' lives when it interferes with day-to-day functioning. People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can benefit from therapy – to look for solutions and to help process frustrations and isolation in the ADHD experience. ADHD becomes apparent in childhood usually, but sometimes it goes unrecognised until much later. There is a range of treatment available, from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to clinician-prescribed medications.
Many people with ADHD aren't aware they have it. They will be aware however that everyday tasks seem more difficult for them than for others. Typical symptoms are finding it hard to focus, missing deadlines and trouble controlling impulses, ranging from impatience to mood swings and outbursts of anger. Other symptoms include:
The above list may be familiar to most people at different times in their lives. If these symptoms occur only occasionally for a person, they probably don't have ADHD. A doctor usually diagnoses a person with ADHD when someone’s symptoms cause problems that stop a person working, finding stable housing, or living normally and safely.
Diagnosis of ADHD in adults is often trickier because the same symptoms also occur in other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or mood disorders. Many adults with ADHD also have at least one other mental health condition (depression and anxiety are the most common).
Symptoms usually start before the age of 12 and continue into adulthood.
ADHD is a lifelong condition, though it often becomes less marked in adulthood. But it can be effectively managed. The first step is to see a doctor and start seeking a diagnosis.
In the UK, the incidence of ADHD in school-aged children is thought to be between 3 and 5%. In adults it is between 3 and 4%.
We still don’t know for sure. An enormous amount of research is focused on finding the causes of ADHD. Factors that may be involved include:
The risk of a person developing ADHD may increase if:
Undiagnosed ADHD has been linked to:
Making the diagnosis normally includes:
ADHD is normally treated through a two-pronged approach:
Doctors might prescribe stimulants for ADHD – which might seem counterintuitive, but has a strong evidence basis for regulating brain activity.
Some ADHD patients might also benefit from antidepressants or other medication, but in every case a doctor is best placed to advise on what to take.
Psychotherapy is indicated to be beneficial for people with ADHD, but behavioural therapies can also help people with ADHD to feel better organised and more in control.
NHS Choices provides information about the signs, symptoms and treatment for ADHD.
For people with an ADHD diagnosis, this charity provides resources and advocacy.
Aimed at young people, this charity is a hub of information and resources for the ADHD community. It outlines how to seek support in a clear and straightforward way.