Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurological disorder that causes a range of behavioural problems such as:
People with ADHD may have some of the following symptoms, with differences in severity:
While some people see ADHD as condition that manifests and it diagnosed in childhood, this is not always the case. Symptoms of ADHD- particularly in women- can go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years, even decades. Women presenting with ADHD tend to be less hyperactive and impulsive, more disorganised, scattered, forgetful, or introverted.
Many women are finally evaluated for ADHD symptoms after their siblings or children get diagnosed- and they realise that they struggled with the same symptoms all their lives.
There is no single test for ADHD. Instead, a qualified professional will use multiple evaluations and tests to diagnose ADHD. It cannot be diagnosed from a simple observation or a quick conversation. Diagnosis in adults can be particularly complex because many adults have learned to hide or mask many of their symptoms over the years.
