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What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. As with autism, the official diagnosis uses the word “disorder”, but it refers to a number of differences such as inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD was previously referred to as Hyperkinetic Impulse Disorder, and you may have seen people use the acronym ADD, to imply difficulties with inattention without hyperactivity.
Today, people with ADHD will be diagnosed with one of three types:
Type 1 - Inattentive-type
Features of inattention may include someone making mistakes, missing details, getting easily bored or distracted, having difficulty focusing on one task, losing things, appearing not to listen or as if they are daydreaming, difficulties processing information accurately or quickly, difficulty following instructions.
Type 2 - Hyperactive/Impulsive-type
Features of hyperactivity or impulsivity may include someone feeling restless, fidgeting, difficulty sitting still, talking constantly, being constantly “on the go”, impatience, blurting things out, making comments that are seen as socially inappropriate, interrupting others.
Type 3 - Combined- type
People with combined-type ADHD will have features of both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity, although there may be times when one type is more obvious or challenging than the other. People with ADHD may also experience sensory issues, and can experience other difficulties such as overwhelm, burnout and overload. ADHD can run in families.
People with ADHD also have many strengths, such as hyperfocus, enthusiasm, resilience, creativity, problem solving, innovative thinking, and (sometimes) high energy.
People seek an ADHD assessment for similar reasons as they explore autism: to gain a better understanding of themselves and their experiences. Having an explanation for your strengths and difficulties can enhance your life by making the most of your strengths and learning to reduce the impact of your difficulties. People with ADHD (and those around them) often come to accept, embrace and forgive their difficulties when they have a clearer idea of the explanation.
Medication may be available to people with ADHD, which can be effective and helpful. Other people manage their difficulties through lifestyle changes (diet, exercise etc), practical strategies (such as reminders, alarms and diaries) and psychological therapy (such as CBT). Please note that we do not have access to a prescriber if you are considering medication.