Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder with persistent symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD starts in childhood and affects around 2–16 % of school-going children. For many people, it does not simply disappear with age. About 60–70 % of children continue to experience ADHD symptoms into adulthood.
ADHD is more frequent in males than in females. Researchers are not sure what causes ADHD, although studies suggest that genes play an important role. Parents and siblings of children with ADHD have a 2- to 8-fold higher risk of also having ADHD. ADHD can affect everyday life, from school, studies and work performance to relationships, confidence and emotional wellbeing. It is a costly and chronic disorder with a significant impact on quality of life of individuals with ADHD and their families.
The good news is that ADHD can be managed, and effective treatment is available.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
Inattention: Difficulty paying attention
Hyperactivity: Too much energy or moving and talking too much
Impulsivity: Acting without thinking or having difficulty with self-control
Symptoms of inattention
- Making careless mistakes or miss important details
- Struggling to stay focused on tasks or play activities
- Not listening, even when spoken to directly
- Not finishing tasks or following instructions
- Having difficulty organising tasks and activities
- Avoiding or putting off tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Losing things needed for tasks or activities
- Easily distracted
- Forgetful in daily activities
Symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity
- Fidgeting, tapping hands or feet, or squirming in your seat
- Leaving your seat when you are expected to stay seated
- Running about or climbing when it is not appropriate; in teens or adults, this may feel like inner restlessness
- Struggling to play or take part in quiet activities
- Constantly “on the go” or unable to sit still for long
- Talking excessively
- Blurting out answers or speaking before a question is finished
- Struggling to wait your turn
- Interrupting or intruding on others, such as joining conversations or activities without permission
How is ADHD diagnosed?
The diagnosis of ADHD should ideally be made by a specialist healthcare professional with experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD, such as a psychiatrist or neurologist.
A person can be diagnosed with one of the three types of ADHD, depending on their symptoms:
- Inattentive ADHD: mostly symptoms of inattention but not hyperactivity or impulsivity
- Hyperactive/impulsive ADHD: mostly symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsivity but not inattention
- Combined ADHD: symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity
Children up to 16 years must show at least 6 symptoms of inattention, or hyperactivity and impulsivity, or both, while adults and adolescents 17 years and older must show least 5 symptoms.
In addition, a person’s symptoms must:
- begin before the age of 12
- be present for at least 6 months
- be present in two or more settings e.g. school, work, and home
- interfere with or impair social, school or work functioning
Speak to a healthcare professional if inattention, restlessness or impulsive behaviour is affecting school, work, relationships or everyday life.
ADHD does not look the same in everyone
ADHD can affect anyone. Boys and men are more likely to show hyperactive or impulsive symptoms, while girls and women are more often diagnosed with inattentive ADHD.
ADHD can look different at different life stages. In preschool children, hyperactivity is often the most noticeable sign. During primary school, inattention may become more obvious as schoolwork and routines become more demanding. In adolescence, obvious hyperactivity such as running or climbing may decrease, but may still show up as fidgeting, restlessness, impatience or an inner feeling of being “jittery”. In adults, inattention and restlessness may continue, and impulsivity can remain a challenge even when hyperactivity is less obvious.
ADHD can be diagnosed at any age. Some adults were never diagnosed as children and may only seek help when life demands become harder to juggle.
ADHD often keeps company
50-90 % of children with ADHD have at least one additional psychiatric disorder, which can make the symptoms more complicated.
These include:
- behaviour disorders
- mood disorders like anxiety and depression
- language and learning difficulties
- substance use problems
- tic disorders
- sleep disorders
This is why a proper assessment matters, because it helps identify what is ADHD, and what else may be going on.
What are the treatment options for ADHD?
Although ADHD cannot be cured, the right treatment plan can help reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning. Medication is considered the cornerstone of ADHD treatment for most children and adults, and may be combined with psychotherapy and behavioural strategies to support school, work, relationships and everyday routines.
ADHD medication
There are two main types of ADHD medication: stimulants and non-stimulants. They work by increasing the activity of two key chemicals in the brain, namely dopamine and noradrenaline.
- Stimulants include medicines such as methylphenidate and amphetamine-based treatments, and they work mainly on dopamine and noradrenaline. Stimulants are the most widely studied ADHD medicines and are considered highly effective. They help improve the core symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, and may also improve areas such as academic performance and social interaction. Some stimulants are short-acting and some are long-acting, so the choice may depend on when symptoms need support during the day, how long the medicine works and how well it is tolerated.
- Non-stimulants include medicines such as atomoxetine used in selected patients; they may be considered when stimulants are not suitable, cause significant side effects or have not worked well enough.
ADHD medication is chosen to suit each person’s individual needs, preferences and concerns. Healthcare professionals will regularly check how well it is working, monitor for side effects and adjust the dose if needed.
Tips to help manage ADHD symptoms
- Exercise regularly, especially when you feel restless or hyperactive
- Eat regular, healthy meals
- Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep and switch off screens at least 1 hour before bedtime
- Stick to a consistent daily routine
- Write down appointments, deadlines, reminders, messages and important thoughts
- Prioritise tasks and break them into smaller, manageable steps
- Take short breaks during tasks that require sustained focus
- Stay connected with supportive friends, family or people who understand ADHD
- Take medication exactly as prescribed and avoid alcohol, tobacco or drugs not prescribed for you
For more information, speak to a healthcare professional.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: What you need to know. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved June 24, 2026, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-what-you-need-to-know
- Schoeman, R., & Liebenberg, R. (2017). The South African Society of Psychiatrists/Psychiatry Management Group management guidelines for adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. South African Journal of Psychiatry, 23, Article a1060.
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
- Belsham, B., et al. (2025). The SASOP/PsychMg child and adolescent attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder guidelines. South African Journal of Psychiatry, 31, Article a2357.
