Attention deficit hyperactive disorder, more commonly called ADHD, is a neurological disorder that typically causes difficulty focusing and impulsive or erratic behaviour. The condition affects roughly one in 50 adults in the UK, but a recent social media trend has seen a large number of people self-diagnose with ADHD.
If you believe you have ADHD, it's important to speak to your GP who may refer to you to a specialist for a formal assessment. Speaking to a professional who can help you manage the condition or prescribe necessary medication has been shown to improve outcomes for people with ADHD.
However, as everyone will experience difficulty focusing or impulsive behaviour from time to time, it is important to know that people with ADHD live with those traits every day. According to the charity ADHD UK, if you live with five or more of the condition's common characteristics as an adult, it could be time to talk to your GP.
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ADHD diagnoses will frequently involve a recognition of both an attention deficit disorder and a hyperactivity disorder, but not necessarily. Having five or more of the common traits of either is a sign that you should think about getting a medical diagnosis.
ADHD UK says that ADHD often lasts into adulthood, but: "symptoms might look different at older ages. For example, in adults, hyperactivity may appear as extreme restlessness or wearing others out with their activity.
They continue: "As they mature an individual may be better able to cope but they may continue to struggle due to the increased behavioural expectations on them. "
Nine common traits of an attention deficit disorder
In children, having six or more of the following symptoms means it could be important to speak to a doctor or developmental professional; in adults, having just five or more of these characteristics could be a sign you have an attention deficit.
ADHD UK says the common traits of an attention deficit are:
- Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities.
- Often has trouble holding attention on tasks or play activities.
- Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
- Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (e.g., loses focus, side-tracked).
- Often has trouble organising tasks and activities.
- Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
- Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g. school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, mobile telephones).
- Is often easily distracted
- Is often forgetful in daily activities.
Nine common traits of a hyperactivity disorder
In addition to having five or more traits of either an attention or hyperactive disorder, to receive a diagnosis these symptoms must: have been present prior to the age of 12, interfere with your life, and be present in a variety of situations.
ADHD UK says the common traits of a hyperactivity disorder are:
- Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.
- Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
- Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may be limited to feeling restless).
- Often unable to play or take part in leisure activities quietly.
- Is often “on the go” acting as if “driven by a motor”.
- Often talks excessively.
- Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.
- Often has trouble waiting their turn.
- Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g. butts into conversations or game)
