What is ADHD?

ADHD is a cognitive condition—a brain difference—marked by inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity. It affects people of all ages and genders, presenting in childhood and continuing into adulthood.

The ADHD Brain

The brain relies on chemicals known as neurotransmitters to send messages throughout its many pathways. ADHD brains have lower levels of these neurotransmitters, most notably noradrenaline and dopamine, which play a key role in focus, motivation, mood regulation, learning, and memory.

Unlike the name would suggest, the ADHD brain does not have a deficit of attention. More accurately, it struggles to regulate or “shift” attention. Sometimes it shifts too quickly, causing inattention and impulsivity. Other times it struggles to shift at all, allowing for hyperfocusing and making transitions difficult.

Types of ADHD

Predominantly Inattentive Presentation
This term applies to individuals with ADHD who primarily struggle with executive functions, such as planning, staying on task, organization, and focus.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
This term applies to individuals with ADHD whose symptoms primarily center around excessive movement and impulsivity⁠—for example, fidgeting, struggling to sit still, and interrupting.

Combined Presentation
This term applies to individuals with ADHD whose symptoms include both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.

Diagnosing ADHD

Having hyperactive or inattentive tendencies does not necessarily mean someone has ADHD. To form a diagnosis, qualified mental health practitioners refer to and build on the criteria specified in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, fifth edition (DSM-5).

Learn more about getting diagnosed

Common Questions

Scientists continue to investigate the risk factors and causes of ADHD. One known risk factor is family history, with evidence showing that ADHD runs in families and is passed on to children by their parent's genes.
ADHD is a lifelong condition—however, when treated and managed through behavioral, educational, psychological, and/or medical intervention, people with ADHD have excellent outcomes. It’s possible to live a happy, successful life with ADHD.
Descriptions of symptoms related to hyperactivity and inattention go as far back as Ancient Greece. However, many cite Scottish physician Sir Alexander Crichton’s 1978 research “On Attention and its Diseases” as one of the first written descriptions of ADHD.
Our modern understanding of ADHD has evolved from what the American Psychiatric Association called a “hyperkinetic reaction of childhood” back in 1968. Since then, the APA has refined its definition to reflect new research and an understanding that ADHD is a lifelong condition affecting both children and adults.
ADD is an outdated term for what we now call ADHD. In 1987, the American Psychological Association updated the term ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) to ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). In 1994 they refined the term further by listing the three different presentations of ADHD: combined presentation, predominantly inattentive presentation, and predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation.
Not everyone who showcases symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity has ADHD. The best way to find out whether you or a family member has ADHD is to be evaluated by qualified a mental health professional, such as a therapist or physician who specializes in ADHD.
Learn more about the process of getting diagnosed.

ADHD Reframed

When untreated, ADHD can be very difficult for individuals and families. But when managed properly, it can be an asset.

Viewing ADHD as a trait made up of both challenges and gifts helps reduce fear, shame, and stigma.

ADHD Mirror Traits
Hyperactive → Energetic
Intrusive → Eager
Disorganized → Spontaneous
Stubborn → Persistent
Moody → Sensitive
Impulsive → Creative