What is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common health condition that affects someone’s behaviour. People with ADHD often find it hard to concentrate, and can struggle to keep still and control their impulses. ADHD can also affect other functions like managing emotions, and may lead to sleep or anxiety disorders.

Symptoms usually appear at a young age. Though they may change, become less severe or people find they’re able to better manage them, symptoms often continue in adulthood, even for those who were diagnosed with ADHD as children. Importantly, people with ADHD are not lazy or lacking in willpower – in fact, they’re often trying very hard to manage their symptoms.

ADHD in adults

ADHD can be diagnosed in childhood or adulthood. However, adults must have experienced symptoms before the age of 12 to be considered for a diagnosis.

You may have heard that it can be hard to get an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. This can be because of a lack of knowledge about the condition, or because people’s challenges are thought to be caused by something else. For example, some people may be diagnosed with a mental health condition like anxiety or depression, when this only explains part of their struggle. When this happens, underlying ADHD can be overlooked. Symptoms can also look different in males and females, and ADHD symptoms in girls are more likely to have been missed in childhood. However, the gender balance starts to even out in adult diagnoses.

Adults with ADHD may have a history of poor performance at school, excessive restlessness and difficulty in relationships and jobs. In adult life, they may find it challenging to stay organised, concentrate on tasks, keep appointments or complete large projects. They may also be restless and impulsive.

Getting support for ADHD

Effective ADHD treatment can reduce symptoms, making everyday life easier for many adults. The most common treatments for ADHD in adults are a combination of medicine and therapies like psychotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. Sometimes, people need to try several treatments before finding the one that works for them.

Some adults may also find it helpful to work with a life coach or ADHD coach who can support them with executive function skills – these are essential mental skills we use every day to help us make decisions, organise, plan and learn. They include things like working memory, flexible thinking and impulse control. Others try lifestyle changes, like doing more physical activity or eating healthier.

If you're an adult and think you may have ADHD, the first step is to speak to your GP. They can’t diagnose the condition themselves, but you can discuss your symptoms with them and they can refer you to a specialist for an assessment if:

  • You weren’t diagnosed with ADHD as a child, but your symptoms started at a young age and have continued since, or;
  • You had ADHD as a child and your symptoms now cause significant difficulties
  • The symptoms you’re experiencing are not fully explained by another mental health condition
  • Your symptoms significantly affect your life. For example, if you struggle to complete tasks, cope with stress or find social and intimate relationships difficult.

When you speak to your GP they may ask you about your symptoms, as well as:

  • When they started and where they occur, for example at work or at home
  • If your symptoms affect your daily life
  • If there have been any recent significant events in your life, such as a death in the family
  • If there's a family history of ADHD
  • If there are any other challenges or symptoms of other conditions you may have
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