What is ADHD?

Many of us have heard of this condition but don’t really understand it properly or even come close to appreciating how it can adversely affect the life of those who have it…or the impact on their families, friends and relationships.

Many have difficulty in social situations and maintaining such relationships long term. Underachievement and low self esteem can be prevalent in those with ADHD.

We’ve noticed recently, that some ‘high profile’ people have revealed that they’ve been diagnosed as adults and so thought we would take a bit of time to delve a bit deeper into this condition.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (often shortened to ADHD) affects a person’s behaviour and is usually diagnosed before the teenage years. Teachers may often notice issues with behaviour and school work. However as we have mentioned it can go undiagnosed until adulthood.

Generally, more boys than girls are diagnosed with ADHD.

What are the Symptoms of ADHD?

Generally symptoms are presented within two categories although many may only display behaviours from one category.

Poor concentration & Difficulty focusing

•    Having a short attention span with distraction
•    Seemingly often making careless mistakes
•    Appearing forgetful or losing things
•    Seemingly become bored easily
•    Unable to listen to or carry out instructions
•    Constantly switching activity or task often quite rapidly
•    Poor organisation skills

Impulsiveness or Hyperactivity

•    Inability to concentrate on tasks/unable to complete
•    Impulsiveness
•    Impetuousness/no sense of danger
•    Often interrupts others
•    Fidgety and unable to sit still
•    Overly chatty and prone to interrupt others

Symptoms of ADHD can have incredibly adverse impacts on a person’s life and relationships with others. The symptoms of ADHD can exist alongside other conditions like anxiety and depression with sleep and behaviour disorders often having a detrimental impact on quality of life.

Conditions related to ADHD

•    Epilepsy
•    Dyspraxia
•    Tourettes
•    Autism Spectrum Disorder
•    Dyslexia and Learning Difficulties

Adults with ADHD

It is reported that no adult will develop ADHD without having had symptoms as a child which for whatever reason, was overlooked or unnoticed. Symptoms in adults may be less easily noticeable than those in children. Specialists often report -

•    Lack of organisation skills and poor attention to detail
•    Poor ability to prioritise
•    Poor focus
•    Forgetful - Misplacing or losing items
•    Inability to complete tasks before starting new ones
•    Restlessness
•    Interrupting conversations
•    Mood swings and irritability

Personality disorders, OCD, Bipolar can also present in people with ADHD as adults.

Potential Causes of ADHD

ADHD is thought to have a genetic component and chances are increased if either or both parents and siblings have ADHD. Brain scans have shown potential differences of structure, and size of certain areas within the brain, in people with ADHD. Chemical and neurotransmitter levels may also have a contributing effect some studies report.

Risk Factors

•    Prematurity
•    Low birth weight
•    Epilepsy
•    Brain injury

Does this sound like you? Are you worried you may have symptoms of ADHD?

Your GP is a good starting point in order to discuss any symptoms you are concerned about. They can take a detailed history and refer you to a specialist if required and maybe recommend some natural ADHD support.