Attention deficit hyperactive disorder - otherwise known as ADHD - is a neurological disorder which typically causes a difficulty in focusing, as well as impulsive or erratic behaviour. The condition effects in the region of one in 50 adults across the United Kingdom, but a recent trend on social media has seen a large volume self-diagnose themselves with the condition.
If you worry that you may have ADHD, you should always speak to your GP before self diagnosing - as a doctor has the ability to refer you to a specialist for a formal assessment.
Seeking professional help can also help you manage the condition, while they can also assist by prescribing necessary medication. Both have been shown to improve outcomes for people living with the condition.
However, as many will experience difficulty focusing or with impulsive behaviour from time to time, it is important to know that people with ADHD live with these 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.
The Mirror reports that ADHD diagnosis frequently involves 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. 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, carrying six or more of the following signs and symptoms means that it is important to speak to a doctor or developmental coach - while having just five or more of these as an adult could mean that 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)
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