ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder

When This Is Your
Norm…

Finding Help — NHS Guidance

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects people’s behaviour.
People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating and may act on impulse.

Sometimes ADHD was not recognised when someone was a child, and they are diagnosed later as an adult.

The symptoms of ADHD usually improve with age, but many adults who were diagnosed with the condition at a young age continue to experience problems.

People with ADHD may also have additional problems, such as sleep and anxiety disorders.

What Is It..?

Adult symptoms of ADHD also tend to be far more subtle than childhood symptoms.

Symptoms
In
Adults

Some specialists have suggested the following as a list of symptoms associated with ADHD in adults:

  • carelessness and lack of attention to detail
  • continually starting new tasks before finishing old ones
  • poor organisational skills
  • inability to focus or prioritise
  • continually losing or misplacing things
  • forgetfulness
  • restlessness and edginess
  • difficulty keeping quiet, and speaking out of turn
  • blurting out responses and often interrupting others
  • mood swings, irritability and a quick temper
  • inability to deal with stress
  • extreme impatience
  • taking risks in activities, often with little or no regard for personal safety or the safety of others – for example, driving dangerously
ADHD
in
Adults

Adult symptoms of ADHD also tend to be far more subtle than childhood symptoms.

Some specialists have suggested the following as a list of symptoms associated with ADHD in adults:

advice useful:

  • if you find it hard to stay organised, then make lists, keep diaries, stick up reminders and set aside some time to plan what you need to do
  • let off steam by exercising regularly
  • find ways to help you relax, such as listening to music or learning breathing exercises for stress
  • if you have a job, speak to your employer about your condition, and discuss anything they can do to help you work better
  • if you’re at college or university, ask about what adjustments can be made to support you, such as extra time to complete exams and coursework
  • talk to a doctor about your suitability to drive, as you’ll need to tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if your ADHD affects your driving
  • contact or join a local or national support group – these organisations can put you in touch with other people in a similar situation, and can be a good source of support, information and advice

Read about living with ADHD on the AADD-UK website. AADD-UK is a charity specifically for adults with ADHD.

AADD-UK also has a list of support groups across the UK, including groups for adults, parents and carers.

Adults with ADHD

Adults with ADHD may find they have problems with:

  • organisation and time management
  • following instructions
  • focusing and completing tasks
  • coping with stress
  • feeling restless or impatient
  • impulsiveness and risk taking

Some adults may also have difficulties with relationships or social interaction.

ADHD Advice & Diagnosis – NHS
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

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