What does ADHD mean?
ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means it relates to how the brain develops and works. It usually starts in childhood and, for many people, continues into adult life.
The NHS describes the main features as difficulties with attention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Some people mainly have trouble with attention. Others mainly have hyperactive and impulsive traits. Many have a combination.
The name can be misleading. People with ADHD do not simply have too little attention. Many find it very hard to direct their attention where they want it, especially to things that feel boring, while being able to focus intensely on things that interest them. Some researchers describe it as a difficulty with regulating attention, emotions and effort, rather than a shortage.
ADHD is not caused by bad parenting, too much sugar or laziness. It tends to run in families, and research suggests genetics play a large part. It is also not something people simply grow out of, although the way it shows up often changes with age.
Many adults in the UK were never diagnosed as children, particularly women and girls, people who did well at school, and people whose difficulties were put down to behaviour. Some only start to wonder about ADHD after a child or relative is diagnosed.
Understanding what ADHD means can be a relief. It offers an explanation for lifelong patterns, and a starting point for finding approaches that suit how your mind actually works.