ADHD - also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - is a condition with behavioural symptoms. Those with ADHD can often seem restless or have trouble maintaining concentration for periods of time.
Symptoms can be noticed from an early age and can include:
- Inattentiveness
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsiveness
Those with ADHD might also have additional problems such as anxiety and sleep difficulty. It is more common amongst children (particularly children who have other learning disabilities) and particularly amongst males. Generally speaking, ADHD improves with age.
Research has not specifically shown what causes ADHD however it generally runs in families. People with ADHD will generally have multiple differences in their brain compared to those without the condition. Other factors can include:
- Premature birth
- Low birthweight
- Smoking, alcohol or drug abuse during pregnancy
To read more, please visit the NHS ADHD page.
