What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD doesn't always look like someone who can't sit still, constantly interrupts or is forever running late. It can present in very different ways and, particularly where hyperactivity isn't obvious, can go under the radar for years.

ADHD commonly occurs alongside other forms of neurodivergence. During my assessments, I'm therefore always alert to signs that difficulties may extend beyond dyslexia or maths. Where appropriate, I can provide a referral letter and signpost to professionals who diagnose ADHD.

For ADHD to be diagnosed, symptoms need to have been present before the age of 12, occur in more than one setting - such as home and school - and have a significant impact on everyday life.

ADHD can present in three ways: predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, predominantly inattentive or combined.

Hyperactive-impulsive presentation:

Someone with predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may:

  • feel constantly 'on the go'

  • find it difficult to relax or wait

  • fidget or need to keep busy

  • interrupt others without intending to

  • act impulsively

  • experience a mind that feels difficult to switch off

Hyperactivity can become less externally obvious in adulthood. For some people, that energy may instead show itself through constant mental activity, seeking stimulation, starting new projects or finding it difficult to spend time on tasks that offer little immediate reward.

Inattentive presentation:

Someone with predominantly inattentive ADHD may:

  • zone out or become easily distracted

  • procrastinate, particularly with less interesting tasks

  • flit between activities or start things without finishing them

  • lose track of time

  • struggle with organisation or belongings

  • become easily distracted by noise or movement

Some people experience significant symptoms of both hyperactivity-impulsivity and inattention. This is known as combined presentation.

Hyperactivity-impulsivity and/or inattention are the core features of ADHD but people may experience other associated difficulties or traits including:

  • emotional dysregulation - finding emotions particularly intense or difficult to regulate

  • sensitivity to rejection or criticism - sometimes described informally as rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD)

  • hyperfocus - becoming so absorbed in something that it can be difficult to shift attention or notice what's happening around you

  • differences in interoception - finding it harder to notice or interpret internal signs such as hunger, thirst, tiredness or the need to use the toilet.

Does ADHD limit what someone can achieve?

Absolutely not. People with ADHD work successfully across an enormous range of careers.

Some thrive particularly in roles offering variety, stimulation, creativity or the need to respond quickly to changing situations.

Over the years, I've worked with people with ADHD including A&E consultants, paramedics, teachers, sports coaches, interior designers, comedians and retail managers.

A personal perspective

I was diagnosed with ADHD in my 50s so my understanding comes from lived experience as well as professional work.

ADHD can make everyday things genuinely difficult and I rely heavily on strategies I've developed over the years. But I also recognise aspects of myself that I value enormously including curiosity, enthusiasm, new ideas and a tendency to think "Ooh, I wonder if I could do that..."

Understanding my own ADHD hasn't changed who I am. It's helped me understand much more about my past and why I am who I am.