Find out about ADHD

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

At Parenting Special Children we prefer the word difference rather than disorder and it is really important to be reminded of the many skills that come with ADHD (outlined below).

Overview of ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts the parts of the brain that help us plan, focus on, and execute tasks commonly known in the ADHD world as executive functioning.
ADHD symptoms vary by sub-type — inattentive, hyperactive, or combined.

ADHD symptoms

What are the signs of being ADHD?

• Inattention
• Lack of focus
• Challenges with time management
• Weak impulse control
• Heightened emotions (rejection sensitive dysphoria)
• Hyperfocus
• Hyperactivity
• Challenges with executive functioning*

ADHD symptoms vary by individual.

*’Executive function’ involves skills such as planning, motivation, multi-tasking, flexible thinking, monitoring performance, memory, self-awareness, and detecting and correcting mistakes.

What are the 3 types of ADHD?

• Primarily hyperactive-impulsive type
• Primarily inattentive type
• Primarily combined type

Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD

People with primarily hyperactive-impulsive ADHD struggle with impulse control, often moving, talking and struggling not to interrupt others. The brain is often on overdrive with constant thoughts making it difficult to sleep and focus unless the brain is on hyperfocus.

Primarily Inattentive ADHD

People with the inattentive subtype of ADHD have difficulty focusing, finishing tasks, and following instructions. They can be easily distracted and forgetful. They may be daydreamers who lose focus in the classroom, missing out on important information. Those with inattentive ADHD may go undiagnosed as may not cause challenges in the education system.

Primarily Combined Type ADHD

Individuals with combined-type ADHD display a mixture of all the symptoms outlined above.

ADHD is not a disorder, it is a difference that brings lots of much needed skills

• Creativity & imagination
• Problem solving on a whole new level
• Empathy
• Determination
• Big picture people – think entrepreneurs
• Thinking outside of the box
• Compassion
• Perseverance
• Observational skills
• Multi tasking
• Hyperfocus
• Endless energy – brilliant for project and life

At Parenting Special Children we are passionate about ensuring that families of children/young people with ADHD get all the information and support they need. Please do look at our ADHD page for more information, we also have a Facebook page ADHD Berkshire where you can connect with other families with children with ADHD.

It is helpful to look at the NHS guidelines on ADHD as this is used by clinicians and will empower you when meeting with professionals to discuss the best plans for your child/young person.

Another helpful organisation is IASS (Information Advice Support Service), there is an IASS in every local authority area, sometimes called SENDIASS. IASS can help you with difficulties you have with regard to education. Please look at our Education directory for details.