Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a group of behavioural symptoms of inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is a type of ADHD.

Common symptoms of ADHD include:

• a short attention span
• restlessness
• being easily distracted
• constant fidgeting

Many people with ADHD also have additional problems, such as sleep disorders or learning difficulties. However, ADHD has no effect on intelligence. See ADHD - symptoms for a full list of possible symptoms and associated conditions.

Children naturally have a tendency towards the kind of behaviour that ADHD causes, but this behaviour should not be confused with ADHD. There are several criteria that must be met for a child to be diagnosed with ADHD (see ADHD - diagnosis for more information). Adults are harder to diagnose because there is no definitive set of age-appropriate symptoms.

How common is ADHD?

ADHD is the most common behavioural disorder in the UK. It is estimated that the condition affects 3-9% of school-aged children and young people. Worldwide, around 2% of adults may be affected by ADHD.

Symptoms of ADHD tend to start at an early age, and they may become more noticeable when a child's circumstances change, such as starting school. ADHD is normally diagnosed at around three to seven years of age, although in some cases it may not be until much later. It is more commonly diagnosed in boys. 

It is still uncertain whether ADHD can occur in adults without first appearing in childhood.

Outlook

There is no cure for ADHD, but it can be managed using medication. This will be combined with psychological, educational and social therapies that aim to improve behaviour (see ADHD - treatment for more information). 

ADHD can be a lifelong condition, and many children continue to have symptoms as a teenager and adult. It is estimated that nearly two thirds of children with ADHD still have some symptoms at 25 years of age. 

Glossary

Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is a higher than normal level of activity and restlessness.