What is ADHD?
Symptoms of ADHD include inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
Despite recent talk of ADHD being a trend, the condition isn’t new. In 1899, philosopher William James published a book, Talks to Teachers on Psychology. In it, he observed “some of us are naturally scatterbrained” while others “follow easily a train of connected thoughts without temptation to swerve aside to other subjects”.
Fast forward nearly 70 years, and the term ‘hyperkinetic impulse disorder’ – which would become known as ADHD – appeared in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). An updated version of the handbook is still used to diagnose ADHD.
Recognising ADHD
Symptoms of ADHD are often noticed when children are between six and 12 years old, and many diagnoses are made at an early age – but that’s not always the case.
A greater awareness of how ADHD presents in adult females, for example, has led to a rise in women being diagnosed in midlife, when hormonal changes caused by menopause exacerbate symptoms that have gone unrecognised for decades.
Conversely, many men with undiagnosed ADHD grew up being labelled ‘naughty’ or ‘disruptive’ and felt overlooked as a result. For them, the experience of living undiagnosed can lead to internal suffering and low confidence.
For some people, symptoms of ADHD improve with age – perhaps due to medication, or coping strategies developed to mitigate daily challenges – but many adults continue to experience problems.
Like most neurodivergent conditions, ADHD is often genetic. It’s also common for ADHD to co-exist alongside mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety and problems with sleep. These issues may need to be treated alongside ADHD symptoms.
What to know more about ADHD?
ADHD Symptoms
Wondering whether you might have ADHD but unsure of the symptoms? Our comprehensive guide to ADHD symptoms and the three types of ADHD is for you.
Read Our Guide
Neurodiversity and Coexistence
It’s common for people with ADHD to experience mental health challenges and other neurodivergent conditions. Curious to know more?
Click To Read More
Getting an ADHD Assessment
Thinking of getting a diagnosis? Our comprehensive guide to adult ADHD assessment and diagnosis is for you.
Find Out More
Medication
To medicate or not to medicate… our information on the pharmacological treatments for adult ADHD will set you on the right path.
Read Our Guide
ADHD and Mental Health
Struggling with anxiety or depression? You’re not alone! Find out why it’s common for people with ADHD to experience mental health challenges.
Click To Read