Spotting ADHD: Understanding the Common Signs and How to Get Diagnosed

May 30, 2025

Spotting ADHD: Understanding the Common Signs and How to Get Diagnosed

New
NHS
England
estimates suggest that approximately 2.5 million individuals are affected.
people
In England, there are individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), encompassing those who haven’t been diagnosed yet.

These numbers represent the initial publicly accessible estimation of how prevalent this condition is within the general populace.

Out of approximately 2,498,000 individuals with ADHD, about 741,000 are children and young adults between the ages of five and 24 years old.

The statistics were derived utilizing estimations from the
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence
(Mildly surprising) indicates that approximately 3-4 percent of adults and 5 percent of children and young people suffer from ADHD.

The latest figures indicate that over 549,000 individuals in England were awaiting an ADHD evaluation as of March 2025. This represents an increase from approximately 416,000 people during the same period in March 2024.

Given these latest statistics, Seb Thompson, who serves as both a consulting clinical psychologist and the regional psychology leader, notes the following:
South Yorkshire
At Cygnet Health Care, they debunked several prevalent misconceptions about ADHD and pointed out key indicators to watch for.

What is ADHD?

“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological development condition that affects an individual’s focus and/or their degree of hyperactive and impulsive behavior,” according to Thompson.

Generally, when an individual has ADHD, they often find it challenging to maintain focus, manage hyperactive behavior, and control impulsive actions. However, it’s also possible for them to experience difficulties primarily within just one particular area, such as issues related solely to attentiveness.

Definitely, ADHD is more common and easily identified in boys. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to recognize that girls can also suffer from ADHD, and frequently, this condition remains unnoticed in them.

What are some misunderstandings surrounding ADHD?

When you look at the list of symptoms linked to ADHD, many of us might notice that we’ve all experienced inattention or restlessness occasionally,” acknowledges Thompson. “What sets ADHD apart is the consistent presence of these symptoms and their effect on an individual’s functionality and overall quality of life.

The clinical psychologist also notes that there are numerous alternative explanations for difficulties related to attention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity that may resemble ADHD but actually stem from different issues.

“For instance, if someone has difficulties with their hearing, they might appear inattentive; however, they may also frequently lose concentration and get agitated when unclear about their tasks,” observes Thompson.

Similarly, challenges in attention, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity might also be linked to conditions such as autism spectrum disorder or learning disabilities. Alternative reasons behind symptoms resembling ADHD may involve issues with emotional bonding, depressive disorders, or exposure to traumatic events.

What are the typical indicators of ADHD?

“The challenges related to maintaining focus due to ADHD might involve struggling to keep attention on activities over extended durations (especially when there isn’t an instant payoff), often committing hasty errors, and regularly mislaying or losing possessions,” outlines Thompson.

They can also exhibit frequent distractions, seeming lost in thought, struggles with planning and organization, challenges in recalling assignments, and difficulty adhering to directives.

The symptoms should appear in various settings, such as both at school and at home.

Additionally, a common issue faced by individuals with ADHD is excessive hyperactivity.

Thompson points out that the challenges related to hyperactivity and impulsiveness in individuals with ADHD can involve an inability to remain seated without constant movement, displaying extreme restlessness, feeling uneasy during periods of silence, struggling to participate in quiet activities, having trouble taking turns, acting hastily by speaking or behaving spontaneously without considering outcomes, along with a propensity for overlooking potential risks,

Alongside these primary signs, individuals with ADHD frequently grapple with issues like poor self-esteem, depression, and anxiety, notes the psychologist.

“
People
Individuals who become frustrated due to their challenges might cease making an effort at work or school, or lose interest in their hobbies as they find it hard to maintain focus,” explains Thompson. “This frustration can sometimes morph into anger, leading some to exhibit behaviors that could be seen as disruptive.”

In what ways can an ADHD diagnosis benefit individuals?

Specialist ADHD assessment teams usually provide diagnoses for ADHD,” clarifies Thompson. “Should anyone have concerns, they can also consult their GP, who ought to direct them to the appropriate service nearby.

Getting a diagnosis can prove beneficial in numerous ways.

“It might assist the individual (along with their family) in understanding why their brain functions in such a manner,” states Thompson.

It might assist in clarifying that they aren’t at fault for their ADHD and that they didn’t do anything incorrect to bring it about. This could help illustrate that it’s just how certain individuals’ minds function.

It can similarly prove beneficial as it may pave the way for treatments, ranging from pharmacological to psychological approaches. These interventions can assist individuals in managing their ADHD and acquiring techniques to cope more effectively.

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