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ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that can make focusing, staying still, and managing impulses challenging. It can also affect a person's ability to stay organised and manage their time effectively.

Is ADHD the same for everyone?

No, ADHD isn’t the same for everyone. It can show up in various ways depending on the person. Some people might have more trouble with inattention, making it hard to stay focused or follow through on tasks. Others might deal more with hyperactivity, having trouble sitting still or staying calm, while some might struggle with impulsivity, acting without thinking. Each person’s experience with ADHD is unique, and it can affect different aspects of their life in different ways.

What are the types of ADHD?

ADHD is generally classified into three types based on the predominant symptoms. These types help in tailoring treatment and support. Here are the main types:

1. Inattentive Type:

- Difficulty focusing, organising tasks, and following instructions.

- Common symptoms include being easily distracted, forgetting details, and having trouble staying on task.

2. Hyperactive-Impulsive Type:

- Excessive fidgeting, restlessness, and difficulty staying still.

- Includes impulsive behaviours such as interrupting others, difficulty waiting for one’s turn, and making hasty decisions without thinking.

3. Combined Type:

- A mix of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

- Individuals show significant symptoms from both categories.

Each type affects individuals differently, and a thorough evaluation by a professional helps determine the best approach for managing symptoms.

In Australia, diagnosing ADHD involves a thorough assessment by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or paediatrician. Here’s what you can generally expect:

1. Interviews and Conversations: The professional will chat with you—and if relevant, with parents, teachers, or close family members—to get a clear picture of the symptoms and how they affect daily life.

2. Questionnaires and Rating Scales: You might be asked to fill out questionnaires like the Conners Rating Scale, which help measure the severity of symptoms across different settings, like home, school, or work.

3. Review of Your History: They’ll take a close look at your medical, educational, and developmental history to spot patterns that fit with ADHD.

4. Observing Symptoms Over Time: ADHD symptoms need to be seen in more than one setting (like both home and school) and should have been present for at least six months. This is often confirmed through observations or reports from others.

5. Ruling Out Other Conditions: It’s important to rule out other conditions that might mimic ADHD, such as anxiety or learning difficulties, to ensure the diagnosis is accurate.

6. Input from Schools or Workplaces: With your consent, the professional might gather additional insights from schools or workplaces to understand how symptoms appear in different environments.

This process follows guidelines from the National Health and Medical Research Council