Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Understanding ADHD — characteristics, diagnosis, resources and practical strategies.
What is AD/HD?
Image by Hernandez-Mancilla 2020.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with development and everyday functioning.
Inattention
Difficulties sustaining attention, organising, and retaining information. This may include memory difficulties, challenges following instructions, managing sequential tasks (planning), and getting easily distracted.
Hyperactivity and Impulsivity
Constant fidgeting, inability to remain seated, being described as 'driven by a motor', excessive talk, blurting out answers, interrupting and intruding on others.
Shared characteristics
For both autism and ADHD, characteristics need to be present across multiple settings and in the early developmental period. They may become more evident when specific life demands commence — for example starting nursery, primary school, or when social and performance demands increase.
Prevalence
AD/HD Resources
This is what it's really like to live with ADHD — TED Talk
Jessica McCabe's widely watched TED talk about life with ADHD.
https://www.ted.com/talks/jessica_mccabe_this_is_what_it_s_really_like_to_live_with_adhd_jan_2017
Let's tackle common myths about ADHD
Addressing misconceptions about ADHD with evidence.
https://adhdisreal.org/adhd-myths
ADHD medication — ADHD Awareness Month
Information on therapeutic use of stimulant medications for ADHD.
https://www.adhdawarenessmonth.org/therapeutic-use-of-stimulant-meds-for-adhd/
NICE Guidelines on ADHD
UK clinical guidelines for ADHD diagnosis and management.
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng87
ADHD tips for managing challenges — NIMH
National Institute of Mental Health guidance on ADHD.
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd
ADHD in Adults — What you need to know
NIMH publication on ADHD in adulthood.
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/sites/default/files/documents/health/publications/adhd-in-adults.pdf
Canadian Mental Health Association — ADHD in Adults
Accessible guide to ADHD in adulthood from CMHA.
https://cmha.bc.ca/documents/attention-deficithyperactivity-disorder-in-adults-2/
CDC — ADHD Treatment
Fact sheets, data and treatment information from the CDC.
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/treatment.html
CDC — ADHD Overview
CDC information hub on ADHD.
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/index.html
ADHD in children and teens — NIMH
What you need to know about ADHD in children and teens.
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-in-children-and-teens-what-you-need-to-know
References
Antshel, K.M. et al. (2016). A review of the relationship between ADHD and autism. Focus, 14(3), 20–30.
ADHD Institute. (2019). Epidemiology. Retrieved from https://adhd-institute.com
Nøvik, T.S. et al. (2006). Influence of gender on ADHD in Europe.
Tsai, L.Y. (2000). Children with autism spectrum disorder: Medicine today and in the new millennium.