Australian adults
ADHD affects around one in twenty Australians, which is over 1.2 million people
Australian children
Around 1 in 20 Australian children have ADHD
Co-existing conditions
Austism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, obsessive compulsive disorder, sensory processing disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder.
Causes
Can run in families
ADHD is on a spectrum
Everyone presents slightly differently
3 Types
3 types of ADHD – Innatentive, Hyperactive and Combination
Diagnosis
This is done first via your GP, then by a Psychiatrist or Paediatrician
Old name
Used to be called ADD, but changed in 1987 to ADHD
What is ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex neuro-developmental disorder which affects a person’s ability to exert age-appropriate self-control.
It is characterised by persistent patterns of inattentive, impulsive, and sometimes hyperactive behaviour, and is frequently accompanied by emotional regulation challenges.
People with ADHD have little control over these behaviours as they stem from underlying neurological differences. They arise due to an impaired ability to inhibit and regulate attention, behaviour and emotions; to reliably recall information in the moment; to plan and problem solve; to self-reflect and self-monitor; and to self-soothe.
ADHD can cause significant functional disability throughout the lifespan and in all areas of life, and without appropriate intervention can lead to significantly unfavourable outcomes.
However, with evidence-based treatment and support, people with ADHD can embrace their strengths and interests, learn to manage their challenges and live a full and rewarding life.
ADHD is frequently misunderstood and contrary to common myths is under-diagnosed.
These myths are both unhelpful and not evidence-based.
ADHD attributes
Positives
Empathetic, energetic, spontaneous, creative, intuitive, imaginative, inventive, innovative, enthusiastic, can hyper focus on interests, adventurous
Negatives
Easily distracted, innattentive, forgetful, trouble listening, disorganised, talkative, difficult sleeping, day dreaming, hyperactive, poor time management, low frustration tolerance
What causes ADHD
ADHD is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and is a neurobiological developmental disorder.
No-one knows for certain what causes ADHD, and it is possible that a number of factors, both genetic and environmental, may contribute to its development.
ADHD comes with a number of positive as well as negative attributes. It is only when the negative attributes are very disruptive for the individual that they negatively impact everyday living.
Genetic studies, including family, twin and adoption studies, show ADHD is a highly heritable disorder. No single ADHD gene appears responsible for causing ADHD. Instead, research suggests it is likely to result from number of interacting genes. Expression of these genes is thought to result in alterations in brain structure, neurochemical composition and availability, and brain connectivity and function.
ADHD is one of the most researched neurobiological developmental disorders in the world and while it may come with some controversies in regards to the various treatments available, it is with continued research we will understand more.
ADHD - Myths vs Facts
Whilst ADHD is highly researched, there are still a lot of myths about ADHD which ADHD Australia aims to overcome.
Download our factsheet to understand the myths and facts about ADHD
How to get diagnosed
If you suspect you or your child has ADHD, your first step is to go to your GP. We suggest making notes about all the traits and reasons that make you think you or your child has ADHD. Also think about whether there is anyone in your family who has been diagnosed as well. This will help the GP to understand.
From there, the GP will determine whether to refer you to a Psychiatrist or a Paediatrician for children.
Unfortunately wait times can be very long, so consider spending that time reading about ADHD or joining online support groups on social media to better understand ADHD; what it means to have it; and how best to manage once diagnosed.
What is good about having ADHD?
ADHD has a lot of stigma attached to it. Even having the word “disorder” in it, sets a negative tone straight away.
We believe it’s really important to focus on the positives of having ADHD and there are many including:
- Hyper focus
- Creativity
- Problem solver
You're in good company
It can be overwhelming having ADHD and feeling different to other people, but we want you to know that you’re in good company.
Here are some famous people who also have ADHD:
Sports Stars
Simone Biles
Michael Phelps
Michael Jordan
Heath Shaw
Entertainers
Em Rusciano
Celeste Barber
Justin Timberlake
Emma Watson
Woody Harrelson
Rose Callaghan
Business People
Richard Branson
Mia Freeman
Ingvar Kamprand
