💡 Guide
What is ADHD? A plain-English guide
Short answer
ADHD means attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is a condition that can affect attention, activity levels and impulse control. Only a qualified specialist can diagnose it; online checks are screening tools.
ADHD meaning: what the name describes
The NHS describes ADHD as a condition that can affect how you focus. You may struggle to concentrate, sit still or pause before acting. The name describes groups of symptoms, but people do not all experience them in the same way.
ADHD symptoms usually start before age 12. Some people are assessed as adults after difficulties were not recognised earlier. An assessment explores childhood as well as what is happening now.
Source: NHS: ADHD in adults
What are ADHD symptoms?
Inattentive symptoms can include being easily distracted or forgetful, losing things, finding it hard to organise time, or struggling to follow instructions and finish tasks.
Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms can include feeling restless, having lots of energy, talking a lot, interrupting or making decisions without considering the consequences. Some people have mainly one type of symptom; others have both.
Recognising a few examples does not establish ADHD. NICE says diagnosis requires symptoms and impairment in multiple settings, assessed by a qualified specialist. Rating scales alone are not enough.
Source: NICE NG87: Recommendations
How is ADHD assessed?
If symptoms affect work, study or relationships, speak to a GP. They will ask about your experiences and may consider other conditions. They may refer you to a specialist in ADHD.
The specialist asks about childhood, education, relationships, work and medical history. They may ask to contact someone who knows you well. This is more than a short online questionnaire.
Source: NHS: ADHD in adults
What support can help?
The NHS describes practical changes, changes at work or in education, medicines and talking therapies as possible ways to manage ADHD. Not everyone needs or wants medicine. Your specialist can discuss options with you.
If you want a starting point for thinking about symptoms, try the free adult check. Parents and carers can use the child check. Both are screening only, not a diagnosis or an NHS referral.
Free adult ADHD screening check
Free child screening check for parents
Source: NHS: ADHD in adults
❓ Related questions
What does ADHD stand for?
ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Source: NHS: ADHD in adults
Is ADHD always about being hyperactive?
No. Some people mainly show inattentive symptoms, such as forgetfulness and difficulty organising time.
Source: NHS: ADHD in adults
Can an online test diagnose ADHD?
No. NICE says a diagnosis should not be made solely from rating scales or observation. It needs a qualified specialist assessment.
Source: NICE NG87: Recommendations
Sources
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