Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting both children and adults. The World Health Organization recognises ADHD as one of the most common mental health conditions, impacting approximately 5% of children and 2.5% of adults worldwide.
ADHD manifests through three primary symptom categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Individuals may experience difficulty concentrating during boring or difficult projects, feel overly active when expected to remain seated, or struggle with turn-taking in social situations.
Common ADHD Symptoms in Adults
Adult ADHD presents differently than childhood ADHD. While hyperactivity often decreases with age, challenges with attention and impulsivity typically persist. Adults frequently report:
Why Early Screening Matters
Many adults with ADHD remain undiagnosed, developing coping strategies that mask underlying symptoms. Without proper support, individuals may experience challenges in relationships, career progression, and mental health. Anxiety and other conditions frequently co-occur with untreated ADHD.
Taking a validated screening test serves as a great first step towards understanding your symptoms. While our assessment cannot replace evaluation by a healthcare professional, it provides valuable insights to discuss during your appointment.
The Path to Formal Diagnosis
A formal diagnosis requires comprehensive assessment by a qualified psychiatrist or clinical psychologist. The diagnostic process typically involves reviewing developmental history, current symptoms, and ruling out other conditions that may present similarly.
Following diagnosis, healthcare providers develop individualised treatment plans that may include medication, behavioural therapy, coaching, or a combination of approaches. Many adults find that understanding their ADHD traits enables them to implement effective coping strategies and thrive.