Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Is the current term for a specific neuro-developmental disorder seen in both children and adults.
Dr Russell Barkley developed this helpful factsheet on ADHD.

ADHD IS REAL

If you have any doubt about whether this is true or not,
ADDIS, the UK's national ADHD charity, have a helpful mythbusting website.
&
CHADD, Children and Adults with Attention Deficit, Hyperactivity Disorder, have a good list of myths and misunderstandings.

Did you know?

There are three main types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined type.
Most individuals will be diagnosed with ADHD combined type.
More information at ADHD UK here.

It is a lifelong condition.
In the UK, it is estminated that about 4% of adults have ADHD.
The National Intstitue for Health and Care Excellence has a summary here.

Scientists believe that genetics, social and evironmental factors all contribute.
Research has proven that genetics, social and environmental factors all contribute to our differences.
See the Royal College of Psychiatrists ADHD in adults page here.

If you have ADHD you likely to have another neuro-developmental or mental health condition.
It is reported that potentially up to 80% of people with ADHD have a co-existing condition.
See this helpful infographic from ADDitude magazine.

You can be waiting years for a diagnosis and for support.
In 2020, the BBC sent Freedom of Information requests to every NHS Trust in England. They found some patients had waited up to five years for an assessment. Eleven trusts admitted having assessment waiting times of more than two years.
The full BBC article is here.