ADHD Frequently Asked Questions

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that makes it difficult to concentrate, sustain attention, sit still, follow directions and control impulsive behaviour. These symptoms make it difficult for people to follow through on tasks, which can make learning or working challenging at times.

The symptoms of ADHD can be divided into two groups: inattentive behaviours and hyperactive and impulsive behaviours. Inattentive symptoms can include being very distractible, having difficulty remembering and poor organisation. Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms can consist of impatience, excessive movement, talking and interrupting, as well as difficulty in taking turns.

The condition is not an Attention Deficit. People with ADHD can pay attention. It is actually a condition which leads to difficulties controlling, directing and sustaining attention. People with ADHD can pay a lot of attention to things and activities that really interest or excite them or activities which are immediately rewarding. This is called Hyperfocus.

Executive functioning is how your brain plans and organises itself. The functions are self-regulating skills that we all use to accomplish tasks, for example, target setting, prioritising, self-monitoring and time management. Commonly, people with ADHD will have difficulties in these areas.

Yes. Brain imaging studies have shown that people with ADHD have structurally different brains than people without ADHD. It also runs in families — children whose parents have ADHD up to a 60% chance of also having ADHD.

There are a variety of research-backed therapies that can help relieve symptoms of ADHD. Some of the most effective approaches combine several therapies, such as medication.

Stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed. These drugs stimulate the parts of the brain that are under-stimulated. These parts of the brain are related to thinking and attention. The goals of these medications are to reduce hyperactivity/impulsivity and increase focus/attention.

Another example is Cognitive behavioural therapy. This approach emphasises mindfulness and teaches people to be aware of their emotions to improve attention.

Time blindness is a term that was first used by doctors treating people with ADHD. Most young people develop an innate awareness of time and an ability to track its passing. However, for some children and young people with ADHD, this “time awareness” does not develop so successfully leading to missed appointments or playing a game for hours and not realising that there was homework to do done. In the most severe cases, this can have a profound effect on a person's life.