Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Neurodiversity Hub Wirral

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects how the brain works. People with ADHD may: 

  • Find it hard to concentrate 

  • Feel very restless 

  • Act without thinking 

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means it affects how the brain grows and works. It usually starts in childhood and can continue into adulthood  

What Causes ADHD?

Doctors don’t know the exact cause of ADHD. But research shows it often runs in families. Other possible causes include: 

  • Being born early (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) 

  • Having a low birth weight 

  • Brain injury or epilepsy 

  • Exposure to alcohol, tobacco, or drugs during pregnancy 

  • Differences in brain structure or chemicals called neurotransmitters  

ADHD is not caused by eating too much sugar, watching too much TV, or poor parenting  

Types of ADHD

There are three types of ADHD

Inattentive Type

  • Hard to focus 

  • Easily distracted 

  • Often forgetful 

  • May lose things or make careless mistakes 

Hyperactive-Impulsive Type

  • Always moving or fidgeting 

  • Talks a lot 

  • Acts without thinking 

  • Interrupts others 

  • Can’t wait their turn

Combined Type

Has symptoms from both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types  

ADHD in Children and Teenagers

Symptoms usually appear before age 12 and show up in more than one place—like at home and school. Common signs include: 

Inattentiveness

  • Short attention span 

  • Easily distracted 

  • Forgetting things 

  • Trouble finishing tasks 

  • Not listening to instructions 

  • Switching tasks often 

  • Poor organisation  

Hyperactivity and Impulsiveness

  • Can’t sit still 

  • Fidgeting 

  • Talking too much 

  • Acting without thinking 

  • Interrupting others 

  • Taking risks without thinking 

  • Trouble waiting their turn 

  • Girls may show more inattentive symptoms and fewer disruptive behaviours, so ADHD in girls can be harder to spot  

Getting Help

If you’re concerned about a child’s behaviour, talk to their teacher or the school’s Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO). You can also speak to a General Practitioner (GP) for advice and a possible referral for an ADHD assessment 

Diagnosis

ADHD is diagnosed by a specialist, such as a: 

  • Paediatrician 

  • Psychiatrist 

  • Clinical Psychologist 

They will: 

  • Ask questions about the child’s development and behaviour 

  • Use checklists and questionnaires 

  • Talk to teachers and caregivers 

  • Rule out other conditions like anxiety, autism, or learning difficulties  

Treatment and Support

ADHD can be managed with: 

Lifestyle Changes

  • Regular exercise 

  • Healthy meals 

  • Good sleep habits 

  • Clear routines and instructions 

  • Praise and reward charts  

Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps with problem-solving and emotions 

  • Parent training programs teach ways to support children with ADHD  

Medicine

Medicines like methylphenidate or atomoxetine may help with symptoms 

  • Only specialists can prescribe ADHD medicine 

  • Not everyone with ADHD needs or wants medicine  

Parenting a Child with ADHD

Looking after a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be challenging. Children with ADHD may act without thinking, struggle to focus, and seem very energetic. These behaviours are not intentional—they are part of how their brain works 

Everyday Challenges

You may notice difficulties with: 

  • Getting ready for school 

  • Following instructions 

  • Staying organised 

  • Sleeping at night 

  • Social events 

  • Shopping trips

Helpful Parenting Strategies

  • Create a daily routine. Break tasks into small steps. For example, instead of saying “Get ready for school,” list each step: brush teeth, pack bag, put on shoes.

  • Explain what behaviour is expected. Use simple rules and follow through with fair consequences. Praise good behaviour right away. 

  • Give specific praise. Instead of “Thanks,” say “You packed your school bag really well—thank you!” 

  • Use short, direct instructions. Instead of “Tidy your room,” say “Put your toys in the box and books on the shelf.” 

  • Create a reward system with points or stars. Let your child help choose rewards. Use short-term (daily), medium-term (weekly), and long-term (monthly) goals. 

  • If your child seems frustrated or overstimulated, step in early. Distract them or move them to a calmer space.

  • Invite friends to play, but keep visits short. Avoid scheduling playtime when your child is tired or hungry.

  • Daily physical activity like walking, skipping, or sports can help reduce restlessness and improve sleep. 

  • Some children react to certain foods. Keep a food diary and talk to a General Practitioner (GP) if needed. 

  • Stick to the same bedtime and wake-up time. Avoid exciting activities like video games or TV before bed.

ADHD and Sleep

Children with ADHD often have trouble sleeping. This can make symptoms worse. Try: 

  • A calm bedtime routine 

  • A quiet, dark sleep space 

  • Taking ADHD medicine earlier in the day 

  • Talking to a GP about sleep support if needed  

Treatment of ADHD

Treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can help relieve the symptoms and make the condition much less of a problem in day-to-day life.

ADHD can be treated using medicine or therapy, but a combination of both is often best.

Treatment is usually arranged by a specialist, such as a paediatrician or psychiatrist, although the condition may be monitored by a GP.

  • Medicines are not a cure but can help children: 

    • Focus better 

    • Feel calmer 

    • Be more organised 

    • Reduce fidgeting 

    Medicines are usually taken daily. Some children take them only on school days. Regular check-ups are needed to monitor progress and side effects.

    Stimulants include

    • Methylphenidate

    • Lisdexamfetamine

    • Dexamfetamine

    They work quickly and help with focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. 

    Non-Stimulants include

    • Atomoxetine

    • Guanfacine

    These take longer to work and may be used if stimulants don’t help or cause side effects . 

     

  • Therapy can help children learn skills like: 

    • Problem-solving 

    • Managing emotions 

    • Social skills 

    Parents may benefit from training courses that teach strategies for managing behaviour and building self-esteem.

  • Children, teenagers, and adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may benefit from different types of therapy. These therapies can help with behaviour, emotions, and understanding the condition. 

  • Psychoeducation means learning about ADHD and how it affects everyday life. It helps children and families understand the diagnosis and find ways to cope. Talking about ADHD can make it easier to manage and live with. 

  • Behaviour therapy supports caregivers and teachers. It uses behaviour management, which means rewarding good behaviour to help children learn self-control. 

    For example, if a child sits at the table to eat, they might earn a small reward. Teachers can also use praise and structure to help children succeed, even with small steps. 

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a talking therapy. It helps people change how they think and feel about situations, which can lead to better behaviour. 

    CBT can be done one-on-one or in a group. It helps children and adults manage emotions, solve problems, and feel more confident. 

  • If you're caring for a child with ADHD: 

    • Ask your General Practitioner (GP) or specialist to explain how ADHD is different from other conditions. 

    • Share the diagnosis with people who support your child, like teachers or nursery staff. 

    • Learn about any side effects from medicine and what to watch for. 

    • Connect with local support groups to meet other families and get advice. 

    The charity Attention Deficit Disorder - United Kingdom (AADD-UK) has a list of support groups for adults, parents, and carers across the UK

ADHD and Mental Health

Any child or teenager can struggle with mental health. But ADHD can bring extra challenges, like: 

  • Trouble making friends 

  • Difficulty managing emotions 

  • Getting into trouble at school 

These challenges can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression. 

Children with ADHD often have other conditions too. It’s important they get the right support. 

Supporting Your Child’s Wellbeing

  • Encourage your child to talk about how they feel. 

  • Use guides like “Starting a Conversation” to keep communication open. 

  • If you think your child has another condition or mental health issue, talk to their GP or ADHD specialist. 

Source: Young Minds – ADHD Guide for Parents 

ADDvanced Solutions offers free, open‑access ADHD support for children, young people and adults. They offer practical workshops, peer support groups, learning programmes and advice that helps you understand ADHD. You can develop effective strategies for yourself or your child or young person.

Click the logo to see what is available in Wirral or got to the ND Hub What’ On.

ADHD UK is a charity that helps children, young people, and adults with ADHD, as well as their families. The charity helps people understand ADHD better and feel less alone.

They offer clear information, online talks, and friendly support to help people manage ADHD and live well every day.