What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological condition which is commonly characterised by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD Inattentive Type, sometimes referred to as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is commonly characterised by inattention and impulsivity.

The term Attention Deficit can be misleading as it suggests that those with ADHD / ADD have a lack of attention, when the issue is usually that they have inconsistent levels of attention and difficulty controlling where it is directed. At one time ADHD was considered to be a condition which only affected male children. This is now known to be incorrect, but unfortunately the stereotype of unruly little boys continues to affect the diagnosis of girls and adults, particularly those without obvious hyperactivity.