What is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects people's behaviour. People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating and may act on impulse.

• ADHD is associated with lower levels of the neurotransmitter Dopamine in the brain.
• To adapt to the lower levels of Dopamine, ADHD brains can be driven by their search for stimulation.
• People with ADHD can find it difficult to regulate attention away from activities, thoughts and behaviours that are Dopamine increasing. 
• Often ADHD brains are not making conscious choices to ignore requests, instructions or expected behaviours. Their awareness or concern for the consequences of ignoring them can be insignificant compared to the need to engage with things they find Dopamine increasing. 
• Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age and may become more noticeable when a child's circumstances change, such as when they start school.
• People with ADHD may also have additional problems, such as sleep and anxiety disorders.

Resources for parents

• The ADHD Foundation have a parent guide to ADHD: Understanding and supporting my child's ADHD
• BBC Bitesize have a series of short videos about ADHD that may be particularly useful for parents/carers: BBC Bitesize