Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) refers to a neurological (brain) difference experienced by at least 5%-7.5% of the population worldwide that can result in an individual having difficulties controlling their focus and attention, difficulties regulating their energy levels and urges to move, and difficulties regulating impulsive behaviour where they might regularly act or speak before thinking through the consequences of their choices.
People with ADHD also tend to experience emotions more strongly than others, and have difficulties regulating their emotions, and emotionally-driven behaviour.
ADHD is classed as a neurodevelopmental disorder, where aspects of a person’s brain and its related functions have formed and work differently to those of neurotypical people.
ADHD is experienced differently by each person and at different stages in life. It can present quite differently in males and females, and affects each individual differently over time, with the demands of a person’s home, education, or work environment all playing a role in how ADHD challenges and helps them. Changing hormones, stress, and other life events can impact ADHD too.
ADHD often coincides with other neurodevelopmental differences such as autism, dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyspraxia. It can also coincide with mental health difficulties such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and eating disorders. There’s growing evidence that ADHD often coincides with other physical health challenges such as hypermobility, migraines, and menstrual disorders.
ADHD brains work differently. This can mean that people with ADHD have particular strengths or talents that neurotypical people experience less often. ADHD can however be experienced as a disability when it goes unrecognised and untreated, or when the demands of a person’s life and environment are at odds with how their brain works best at that time.
Without recognition, diagnosis, treatment and support, people with ADHD are at greater risk of mental health difficulties, and poorer life outcomes.
There are many myths, judgements, and preconceived ideas about what ADHD is, who has it, why diagnosis of ADHD has been growing in recent years, and how it’s treated and managed. New research is helping to dispel these myths.
Coming soon…
We’re working hard to collate more information, links, and resources about ADHD, as well as testimonies of lived experiences of ADHD from people in Scotland. Check back for more information or subscribe for news and updates.