ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

What is ADHD? ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition — a difference in how the brain manages attention, activity and impulse. It is present from childhood, though many people are not recognised until adulthood. It is not a flaw in character or a lack of effort; it reflects how someone's brain is wired. People with ADHD often describe minds that move quickly and jump between ideas, alongside genuine difficulty with focus, organisation and sitting still — and often real strengths too, like creativity, energy and the ability to hyperfocus on things that grip them.

What are the common signs and experiences of ADHD? Experiences tend to fall into three overlapping areas. Inattention: losing focus, being easily distracted, forgetfulness, difficulty finishing things, disorganisation, and 'time blindness'. Hyperactivity: restlessness, fidgeting, feeling constantly 'driven', talking a lot. Impulsivity: acting or speaking before thinking, interrupting, finding it hard to wait. In adults, hyperactivity often feels more like inner restlessness than obvious movement. Many people also feel emotions intensely and are sensitive to rejection. Having some of these does not, on its own, mean someone has ADHD.

How do I know if I might have ADHD? You might recognise patterns that have been there since childhood and show up across different parts of life — work, home, relationships — not just now and then. Many adults, especially women, reach this point after a lifetime of coping, of being called 'scatty' or 'too much', or after their own child is assessed. Recognising yourself here is meaningful, but it is not a diagnosis — only a qualified professional can assess ADHD. If it resonates, it is worth talking to your GP about an assessment.

What causes ADHD? The exact cause is not fully known, but ADHD runs strongly in families, so genes play a large part. It is linked to differences in how certain brain networks and chemical messengers work. Being born prematurely or with a low birth weight can increase the likelihood. Importantly, ADHD is not caused by parenting, diet, screens or laziness — although a supportive, understanding environment makes a real difference to how someone copes.

Is ADHD the same as anxiety? No — though they often travel together and can look alike. Anxiety is driven by worry and fear; ADHD is a difference in attention and impulse regulation. A restless, racing mind can come from either, and living with undiagnosed ADHD can itself cause anxiety, because everyday life feels harder than it should. Many people have both. This is exactly why a proper assessment matters, rather than guessing.

How is ADHD diagnosed? In the UK the route usually starts with your GP, who can refer you to a specialist — a psychiatrist or specialist ADHD service — for assessment. Assessment involves a detailed conversation about your experiences now and in childhood, often with questionnaires and sometimes input from someone who knows you well. Waiting lists can be long; in England the 'Right to Choose' scheme can sometimes offer more options. A diagnosis is made by a qualified specialist, never by an online test.

What support or treatment options are there? Support is usually a combination rather than a single fix. It can include practical strategies (routines, reminders, breaking tasks into small steps), talking therapies or ADHD coaching, and — for some people — medication prescribed and monitored by a specialist. Adjustments at work or study, good sleep, movement, and understanding from those around you all help. What matters is finding the mix that works for the individual.

How can I support myself or someone I love with ADHD? Start with understanding rather than judgement — ADHD is about difficulty with regulation, not a lack of willingness. Practical scaffolding helps: shared calendars, gentle reminders, breaking big things down, and celebrating strengths rather than only managing struggles. Reducing shame matters hugely, because many people with ADHD have spent years being criticised. If it is your child or partner, learning about ADHD together is one of the kindest things you can do.

Where can I get help right now? Your GP is the best first step for an assessment or support. For information and community, ADHD UK and the ADHD Foundation are trusted UK sources (and the National Autistic Society, as many people are both autistic and ADHD). If you are struggling to cope or having thoughts of harming yourself, please reach out now — see the support box at the top of this sheet.