what is adhd?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
In the past ADHD was considered a childhood disorder and thought to diminish in adulthood however it is now understood to be a lifelong condition that can progress into adulthood. Research suggests more than half of those diagnosed in childhood continue to experience symptoms into adulthood.
ADHD symptoms in adults can change in presentation with inattention being the more prominent feature. The hyperactive behaviour commonly observed in children can turn to restlessness and fidgeting. Impulsivity can be seen through verbal interactions or impulsive behaviours such as spending, gambling, binge eating or making decisions without thinking.
There are three subtypes of ADHD;
*Combined type
*Predominantly Inattentive type
*Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive type
Combined is the most common type where both inattentive and hyperactive - Impulsive symptoms are present.
Inattentive symptoms include difficulties with concentration focus and distractibility. Sustaining attention on daily tasks, activities and subjects can be challenging due to distractions by sights, sounds or internal body sensations and difficulty filtering out background noise.
Other common features of inattentiveness include problems with memory, organisation, procrastination, and motivation which can result in tasks being delayed, incomplete or completed at the last minute under pressure.
Hyperactive-Impulsive symptoms include restlessness, fidgeting, excessive talking, interrupting, emotional impulsivity, and difficulties regulating behaviour and impulses. Hyperactivity can also be in the form of an overactive brain known as ceaseless mental activity. People often experience difficulties with sleep due to being unable to shut off.
All symptoms described above can present in the population of people who don’t have ADHD. People with ADHD experience these symptoms excessively more than what is expected of the norm. Symptoms are impactful in different areas such as daily functioning, employment, education, relationships, social functioning and well-being.
Depression and anxiety are the two most common conditions that come alongside ADHD and can also develop because of ADHD symptoms if not treated. Offending behaviour and alcohol/ substance misuse are common problems alongside ADHD also.
ADHD symptoms are like many other symptoms of mental health conditions and can often be difficult to recognise for some practitioners who are not experienced in diagnosing ADHD. Here at ADHD Collective, we can help to provide you with the correct diagnosis.
Receiving a diagnosis in adulthood can be a significant relief and helps a person understand their differences and difficulties with functioning. A diagnosis can also help a person work towards coping strategies and treatments to help them function better as adults.
