We're sorry You appear to be using an older browser that does not support current web standards, which is why you are seeing an unstyled version of the website. To enjoy the full experience of this and many other quality websites, we recommend that you install an up-to-date browser such as Firefox.


ADHD

You may have heard the term ADHD. It stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and usually means you find it difficult to concentrate for long periods of time. You might also have a lot of energy and maybe you do or say things without thinking.

You might also have heard of something called ADD. This stands for Attention Deficit Disorder, which is similar to ADHD but means that you don’t have the extra hyperactivity or jumpy energy. However, you can still find it hard to concentrate on stuff.

People are usually told they have ADHD/ADD when they are children but young people can also be diagnosed with it.

Some of the signs of ADHD/ADD are:

  • Feeling restless, fidgety or overactive very often
  • Talking a lot and often interrupting people
  • Being easily distracted when you are meant to be doing something
  • Finding it hard to concentrate for very long
  • Being impulsive and suddenly doing or saying things without thinking

Remember

Just because you have some or even all of these things it doesn’t mean that you have ADHD/ADD.

It is normal to find it hard to concentrate or have jumpy thoughts when you are growing up. But if you are worried then you should talk to someone you trust and go to see your GP.

There isn’t a simple test for ADHD/ADD but they will be able to give you advice and support and help you to understand the best way to tackle your problems.

Useful stuff

Download our booklet on ADHD for more information:

'What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder' booklet

RHS portlet