Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
What Is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people focus, manage their energy, control impulses, and stay organized. It is not a behavioral problem or a result of poor parenting—it's a difference in how the brain works and how our neurotransmitters are transported through the brain.
ADHD can affect children and adults in everyday life—at home, school, work, and in relationships.
Like autism, ADHD is a spectrum condition, which means it looks different in different people. Some people may be mainly hyperactive or impulsive, some mostly inattentive and daydreamy, and others show a mix of both.
There are three types of ADHD:
1. Inattentive Type – Trouble focusing, staying organized, following instructions.
2. Hyperactive-Impulsive Type – Fidgeting, talking a lot, acting without thinking.
3. Combined Type – Features of both inattentiveness and hyperactivity.
Everyone with ADHD experiences it in their own unique way, and symptoms can change over time.
How ADHD Is Diagnosed in the UK: Children and Adults
ADHD Diagnosis in Children
NHS Pathway
To get an ADHD diagnosis for a child through the NHS, a referral is typically made by a GP, teacher, or school nurse to a specialist such as a paediatrician or CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). The process involves a full developmental history, behaviour assessments, and standardised questionnaires like the Conners Rating Scales. Observations are gathered from both home and school settings to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Private ADHD Assessment for Children
Parents looking to avoid long NHS waiting times often choose private ADHD assessments. Private clinics offer faster appointments, comprehensive evaluations, and detailed diagnostic reports—often shared with the child’s school and GP. Assessments typically include clinical interviews, behaviour scales, and learning history reviews.
ADHD Diagnosis in Adults
NHS Assessment for Adults
For adults, the first step is speaking with a GP about symptoms. If appropriate, the GP refers to an NHS psychiatrist for an ADHD assessment. This usually includes clinical interviews, childhood history, and diagnostic tools such as the DIVA (Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults) or ASRS questionnaires.
Right to Choose ADHD Diagnosis
Adults in England can access faster ADHD assessments via the NHS through the Right to Choose scheme. This allows patients to request a referral to an approved provider like Psychiatry UK. GPs must agree to the referral, but this route often offers significantly reduced waiting times compared to local NHS services.
Private ADHD Assessment for Adults
Many adults opt for a private ADHD diagnosis due to shorter wait times and more flexible scheduling. Private assessments include a thorough review of symptoms, standardised ADHD tests, and personal history. Clinics often provide ongoing support, including medication and therapy.
Let me know if you’d like this tailored further for a specific audience (e.g. parents, adults seeking diagnosis, or healthcare professionals).
Difficulties People with ADHD May Face
● Struggles in school or work due to focus and organization issues
● Low self-esteem from being misunderstood or labeled as "lazy"
● Social challenges or relationship difficulties
● Feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks
● Anxiety or depression due to chronic stress and burnout
● Lack of support and understanding from others.
Support, structure, and understanding can make a big difference in managing these challenges.
ADHD in adults is often misunderstood and can go undiagnosed for years, the support available is less than for children, with long waiting lists and limited services.
It is important to remember that these are common symptoms listed above, but everybody's experience is different. Internal hyperactivity is often overlooked, and can be misdiagnosed as anxiety.
Everyone may experience these things sometimes—but with ADHD, they are more frequent, more intense, and impact daily life.
How ADHD May Present:
In Children:
● Difficulty sitting still or staying quiet
● Easily distracted or forgetful
● Talking a lot or interrupting others
● Trouble following instructions or completing tasks
● Making careless mistakes or losing things often
In Adults:
● Chronic lateness or disorganization
● Forgetting appointments or daily responsibilities and poor working memory
● Feeling restless or always "on the go"
(This can often present as internal hyperactivity - racing thoughts, like your brain is on a hamster wheel running really fast. Especially for adults, who like Autism have learnt to mask and suppress their differences to be accepted)
● Trouble starting or finishing tasks
● Struggling with time management or emotional regulation.
Despite the challenges, ADHD often comes with many strengths such as:
● High energy and enthusiasm
● Creative thinking and outside-the-box ideas
● Quick problem-solving
● Passion and drive when interested
● Courage to take risks and try new things
● Ability to hyperfocus deeply on topics they care about
ADHD is a real, common, and manageable condition. It’s not about being lazy, bad, or broken—it’s just a different way of thinking and processing the world. With the right support and understanding, people with ADHD can thrive in school, work, and life.
Strengths Often Seen in People with ADHD
