ADHD

🌟 What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects how a person concentrates, organises tasks, manages time, and responds to stimulation. ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, laziness, or lack of effort. It is a recognised condition that affects both children and adults.

ADHD is often grouped into three types:

• Primarily inattentive

• Primarily hyperactive–impulsive

• Combined type (involving both)

It is important to remember that ADHD looks different in every person.

🧠 How does ADHD affect people?

People with ADHD may experience:

• Difficulty focusing, especially on tasks that feel uninteresting or repetitive

• Forgetting things or losing track of instructions

• Impulsive decisions or blurting out answers

• Restlessness, fidgeting, or a strong need to move

• Struggling to manage time, prioritise, or complete tasks

• Intense emotions or low frustration tolerance

These challenges are often misunderstood as laziness or bad behaviour, especially in school or work environments.

🧩 Strengths and Positives

ADHD also comes with many strengths, which often go unrecognised. These can include:

• Creativity and out-of-the-box thinking

• High energy and enthusiasm

• Courage to speak up and challenge ideas

• Resilience and determination

• A strong sense of justice

• The ability to hyperfocus on subjects of interest

With the right environment and understanding, people with ADHD can thrive.

🧒 ADHD in School

In education, children with ADHD might struggle with:

• Sitting still for long periods

• Following multi-step instructions

• Meeting expectations around organisation and deadlines

• Behavioural misunderstandings linked to impulsivity or overstimulation

Support might involve:

• Short, clear instructions

• Movement breaks

• Visual timetables or reminders

• Flexible seating or sensory tools

• Consistent routines and positive reinforcement

Teachers who understand ADHD can make a big difference by adapting their approach and building strong relationships.

⚠️ ADHD is Often Missed

ADHD is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, especially in girls, non-binary people, and those with co-occurring conditions such as autism, anxiety, or trauma. Many adults discover their diagnosis later in life.

Signs in girls may show up as daydreaming, emotional sensitivity, or quiet disorganisation rather than physical hyperactivity. This can lead to their struggles being overlooked.

🤝 Understanding and Respect

ADHD is not a choice or a character flaw. It is a different way of experiencing the world. People with ADHD often benefit from environments that are flexible, strengths-focused, and free from unnecessary punishment.

Listening to people with lived experience, including parents and neurodivergent adults, is essential to building genuine inclusion.

📚 Want to Learn More?

If you are a parent, teacher, or professional looking to better understand ADHD through lived experience, join one of our Neurodivergence Connect events. You will hear directly from families and gain practical, respectful insights you can apply right away.