Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is the name given to a group of behaviours which include hyperactivity and inattentiveness. Its cause isn’t known, though the condition seems to run in families. People with ADHD are normally diagnosed as children, between the ages of 6 and 12. Around 2-7% of school-age children are thought to have the condition.
Many people with ADHD ‘outgrow’ the condition during adolescence. However, around a third, to a half of people with ADHD continue to experience the symptoms into childhood.
People with ADHD benefit from early identification of the condition by healthcare professionals, as appropriate support and behavioural therapies can be put in place to avoid under-performance at school and the problems that can lead on from this.
Signs of ADHD
The signs of ADHD include the following:
- Inattentiveness:
- Short attention span
- Easily distracted or bored
- Seeming forgetful
- Inability to persevere with tasks
- Hyperactivity and impulsiveness:
- Constant fidgeting
- Inability to concentrate
- Talking too much or interrupting others
- Inability to wait their turn
- Acting without thinking
- Little or no sense of danger
Resources and Guidance
- NHS Choices provides information on ADHD
- ADDISS, The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service is a charity that provides people-friendly information and resources on ADHD.