What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects people’s behaviour.

ADHD is usually diagnosed in boys rather than girls as girls tend to show symptoms of inattentiveness and are less likely to show symptoms of disruptiveness.

There is no known cause for ADHD, however, the condition is known to have a genetic relation. Other factors include premature birth (before the 37th week of pregnancy), low birth weight or smoking, alcohol or drug abuse during pregnancy, and people with neurodevelopmental conditions. ADHD can also occur in people of any intellectual ability.

Symptoms

Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed in childhood (between ages 3-7) and tend to show up more during times of transition (e.g. starting school). Despite this, there are times when ADHD is not recognized in childhood but is diagnosed later as an adult.

The symptoms of ADHD can improve with age, however, many adults diagnosed with ADHD at a young age still tend to experience some problems.

Symptoms of ADHD can be categorised into 2 types of behavioural problems (see below).

1.     Inattentiveness (difficulty concentrating & focusing)

• have a short attention span and being easily distracted

• making careless mistakes

• forgetfulness or losing things

• unable to stick to tasks that are tedious or time-consuming

• unable to listen to or carry out instructions

• constantly changing activities or tasks

• having difficulty organising tasks

2.     Hyperactivity and impulsiveness

• being unable to sit still, especially in calm quiet settings

• constantly fidgeting

• unable to concentrate on tasks

• excessive physical movement

• excessive talking

• unable to wait for their turn

• impulsiveness

• interrupting conversations

• little or no sense of danger

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