Understanding ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects parts of the brain which controls your attention, impulses and concentration. It can have an impact on school, friendships, self-esteem and family life without the right help.
The common signs are:
- the inability to focus
- being unable to sit for long
- losing possessions or forgetting where things are
- starting a task before finishing the previous one
- sensitivity to criticism or rejection
- not listening to instructions and failing to finish schoolwork or chores.
Visit the Kent Community Health website for more information.
A unique view of the world
Children and young people with ADHD can also:
- be extremely passionate about what interests them
- have high energy, with great enthusiasm
- be detail-orientated and pay attention to the finer details
- have a naturally curious mind
- have higher levels of social intelligence, humour, and recognition of feeling, or empathy
- be very creative and can spot new solutions and come up with amazing ideas before others!
These signs are not a definitive list of every child or young person with ADHD. Every child with ADHD is unique and has an amazing brain!
Watch this video from the Amazing Things Project. It explains what ADHD is, including how children and young people with ADHD see the world.
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Helpful resources
Interested in watch more videos about ADHD? Here are a few videos that may help you:
- "ADHD the questions parents want to ask their children" - a BBC series supporting parents
- Reaching families animations - video animations showing support relating to autism and sensory issues.
- "How do I help?" - NHS video for parents helping to understand how to support neurodiverse children.
- "A parent's guide to supporting children and young people with ADHD and autism" - various videos helping parents to support their child.
If you believe your child has ADHD, see what help is available for you.
Are you an adult looking for ADHD or autism support for yourself? Visit the NHS website.