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So… What Is ADHD? A Closer Look Beyond the Basics.

Blog title artwork - So...What is ADHD? A Closer Look Beyond the Basics

You’ve probably heard the term ADHD — often linked with hyperactivity or an inability to focus. But there's far more to it than that. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects how someone pays attention, regulates impulses, and manages time, tasks, and emotions.


It’s not just “naughtiness,” “laziness,” or “poor concentration” — and it doesn’t only affect children. Let’s explore what ADHD really is, how it presents across ages and stages, and how to support those who live with it.



🧠 What Is ADHD?


According to diagnostic frameworks like the DSM-5 and ICD-11, ADHD is characterised by a pattern of:


  • Inattention (difficulty sustaining focus, being easily distracted, forgetful)

  • Hyperactivity (restlessness, fidgeting, difficulty staying still)

  • Impulsivity (acting without thinking, interrupting, emotional outbursts)


There are three recognised presentations:


  1. Predominantly Inattentive

  2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive

  3. Combined Presentation


ADHD is neurobiological in origin — it involves differences in how the brain regulates attention, motivation, and executive function (planning, memory, task switching).



🧒👩‍🎓🧑‍💼 How ADHD Shows Up at Different Ages


In Children:

  • Difficulty following multi-step instructions

  • Daydreaming or zoning out in class

  • Interrupting or talking excessively

  • Struggles with routines and organisation

  • Emotional “explosions” over small frustrations


In Teenagers:

  • Avoids or delays tasks that require sustained focus

  • Disorganised study habits and poor time management

  • Risk-taking behaviour or impulsivity in social settings

  • Sensitivity to rejection or criticism

  • Increased academic pressure may highlight difficulties


In Adults:

  • Difficulty completing tasks, especially under time pressure ⏰

  • Trouble managing work deadlines or personal admin 📋

  • Frequent lateness or forgetfulness

  • Mental fatigue and “task paralysis”

  • Emotional dysregulation, e.g., irritability or overwhelm

  • Difficulty switching off — even when exhausted


👉 Many adults with ADHD weren’t diagnosed in childhood, and may have masked or compensated for their symptoms for years.



🔄 Common Misconceptions


  • “ADHD is just a childhood disorder.” ➤ False. It often persists into adulthood and may become more apparent over time.


  • “Everyone gets distracted sometimes — it’s not ADHD.” ➤ Occasional distraction is normal. ADHD is persistent, impairing, and present in multiple settings.


  • “People with ADHD just need to try harder.” ➤ ADHD is not a matter of willpower. It affects self-regulation — how you do things, not whether you want to.



🌟 Strengths That Often Come With ADHD


While ADHD can present challenges, it often comes with real strengths:


  • Creativity and idea generation 🎨

  • High energy and enthusiasm ⚡

  • Hyperfocus on tasks of interest 🎯

  • Strong verbal communication 💬

  • Problem-solving under pressure 🔧

  • Empathy and emotional intuition 💛


These qualities are valuable — in the classroom, the workplace, and beyond.



🛠️ Support Strategies That Work


For children and young people:

  • Clear routines and visual schedules 📅

  • Breaking tasks into small, manageable steps 🧩

  • Movement breaks and fidget tools 🪀

  • Positive reinforcement and strengths-based feedback 🌈

  • Extra time for processing or transitioning ⏳


For teenagers and adults:

  • Time management aids (planners, alarms, apps) ⏰📱

  • Task prioritisation tools (e.g. “must, should, could” lists)

  • Environmental adjustments (quiet spaces, noise-cancelling headphones) 🎧

  • Coaching or mentoring to build executive functioning skills

  • Medication and/or therapy, where appropriate (NHS or private routes) 💊🧠



🧭 Understanding Leads to Empowerment


Whether you're a parent, educator, employer, or someone exploring their own experiences — understanding ADHD is the first step to effective support. With the right strategies, self-awareness, and adjustments, people with ADHD can not only cope — they can thrive.


ADHD isn’t about being broken. It’s a different operating system. Let’s support those who use it.



🧾 Curious About ADHD? Start with a Screening


If you’re wondering whether ADHD might be part of your or your child’s profile, a screening appointment can be a helpful first step.


🔎 My screening appointments offer:


  • Exploration of presenting concerns

  • Identification of signs that may indicate ADHD

  • Discussion of next steps and support options

  • Guidance on whether a full diagnostic assessment may be beneficial


🧠 A full diagnostic assessment for ADHD, which may lead to prescribed medication if appropriate, must be carried out by:


  • A psychiatrist,

  • A paediatrician, or

  • A clinical psychologist with expertise in ADHD.


If needed, I can signpost you to appropriate pathways for medical diagnosis and ongoing support.

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