Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain manages executive functions - the cognitive skills used to plan, focus, organise, regulate emotions and control impulses. Rather than a simple inability to pay attention, ADHD is best understood as a challenge with attention regulation. A person with ADHD may struggle to focus on low-interest tasks while experiencing intense 'hyperfocus' on topics or activities they find engaging. ADHD presents in three primary ways, depending on which traits are most prominent:
1. Inattentive Presentation
Focus and Attention: Difficulties sustaining focus on detailed or repetitive tasks, frequently missing key details or drifting off during conversations.
Organisation: Challenges with managing time, prioritising tasks, keeping track of belongings or following multi-step instructions to completion.
Working Memory: Experiencing frequent forgetfulness in daily activities, such as misplacing essential items (e.g. stationary or school materials) or missing appointments.
2. Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
Physical or Mental Restlessness: Feeling driven by an inner engine - fidgeting, tapping hands or feet or feeling an inability to sit still during quiet activities. In adults, physical hyperactivity often shifts to a sense of internal restlessness or an overactive mind.Impulsivity: Acting or speaking before processing the consequences, interrupting conversations, blurted answers or difficulty waiting.Emotional Regulation: Experiencing quick or intense emotional reactions, low frustration tolerance or difficulties calming down when overwhelmed.
3. Combined PresentationThe individual exhibits traits from both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive categories. This is the most common presentation.