Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse regulation, activity levels and emotional regulation. It is a lifelong condition, although the way it presents can change significantly across childhood, adolescence and adulthood.

A common misconception is that ADHD is something only children have and eventually “grow out of”. In reality, ADHD often persists into adulthood. Research suggests that by early adulthood, around 15% of individuals diagnosed in childhood continue to meet full diagnostic criteria, while a further 60–70% continue to experience symptoms that significantly affect daily life.

ADHD is not limited to school or work. It is a 24-hour condition that can impact relationships, family life, emotional wellbeing, sleep, organisation, finances and self-esteem.

ADHD is characterised by ongoing difficulties in one or more of the following areas:

Inattention (e.g. difficulty sustaining focus, organisation, memory)

Hyperactivity (e.g. physical restlessness, internal sense of being “on the go”)

Impulsivity (e.g. acting without thinking, difficulty waiting or inhibiting responses)

Not everyone with ADHD experiences all of these traits in the same way. ADHD exists on a spectrum, and no two people present identically.

ADHD is diagnosed through a comprehensive clinical assessment, not a single test.

A diagnostic assessment typically includes:

A detailed developmental history

Exploration of current difficulties across settings (home, school, work, relationships)

Standardised questionnaires and rating scales

Collateral information from parents, partners, teachers or employers (where appropriate)

Consideration of co-occurring conditions

For adults, diagnosis focuses on how symptoms currently impact daily functioning, alongside evidence that traits were present earlier in life, even if they were not recognised at the time.

There is no blood test or brain scan that can diagnose ADHD. Objective measures (such as computer-based attention tests) may be used to support assessment, but diagnosis remains a clinical decision.

In children, ADHD may present as:

High levels of physical activity or fidgeting

Difficulty remaining seated or waiting their turn

Frequent distraction and forgetfulness

Difficulty following instructions

Emotional outbursts or frustration

Challenges with peer relationships

Some children, particularly girls, may present more quietly, with inattentiveness, internalised anxiety, perfectionism or daydreaming. These presentations are often overlooked.

Adult ADHD often looks very different from childhood ADHD. Hyperactivity may reduce outwardly, but is frequently replaced by internal restlessness and mental overactivity. As adult responsibilities increase, difficulties with organisation, time management and emotional regulation often become more pronounced.

Common adult ADHD difficulties include:

Poor concentration and distractibility

Forgetfulness and misplacing items

Difficulties with organisation and prioritisation

Struggling to meet deadlines

Starting tasks but finding it hard to finish them

Feeling mentally overloaded or exhausted

Restlessness or feeling constantly “on edge”

Interrupting others or difficulties with social timing

Emotional reactivity or mood swings

Difficulty coping with stress

Impulsive decision-making or risk-taking

Many adults with ADHD describe working much harder than others to achieve the same outcomes, often masking their difficulties at significant personal cost.

Many individuals particularly women and high-achieving adults cope by masking their ADHD traits. This may involve excessive preparation, perfectionism, people-pleasing or overworking to avoid mistakes.

While masking can protect external functioning, it often leads to:

Chronic stress and exhaustion

Sleep difficulties

Anxiety or low mood

Burnout

This is a common reason ADHD is diagnosed later in life.

ADHD has a strong genetic component. When a child is diagnosed, it is common for parents or siblings to recognise similar traits in themselves. Identifying ADHD within families can help individuals make sense of longstanding challenges and access appropriate support.

Co-occurring conditions are common in ADHD and may include:

Autism spectrum condition

Dyslexia or other specific learning differences

Anxiety disorders

Depression

Sleep disorders

Substance use difficulties

These do not cause ADHD, but can complicate presentation and support needs. Difficulties present in childhood often continue into adulthood if unrecognised.

When ADHD is unrecognised or unsupported, individuals may experience:

Low self-esteem and confidence

Ongoing stress and emotional distress

Difficulties with education or employment

Strained relationships

Financial difficulties

With appropriate understanding and support, ADHD is highly manageable. Many individuals experience significant improvements in wellbeing, functioning and self-compassion following diagnosis and support.

If you are seeking support, Different Minds (ADHD ASD Norfolk) Limited offers ADHD assessment, psychoeducation and coaching for adults and young people. Please see our Services page for further details.

If you are unsure whether ADHD assessment is right for you or your child, we are happy to discuss this and help guide you toward appropriate next steps.