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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that begins in childhood and often continues into adult life. Many receive their diagnosis as children, but some adults discover their ADHD for the first time later on. The three core features are hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. Hyperactivity can show as persistent restlessness or an urge to move. Inattention often presents as difficulty sustaining focus, becoming easily distracted or procrastinating. Impulsivity may involve hasty decision-making, interrupting others or acting without thinking through consequences. These symptoms occur across different settings and to a degree that significantly disrupts daily functioning at work, at home and in social situations.
The human brain relies on chemical messengers—neurotransmitters—to transmit signals between nerve cells (neurons). Two key neurotransmitters implicated in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are dopamine and noradrenaline (also called norepinephrine). Both play crucial roles in regulating attention, motivation, executive function and emotional control.
The role of Dopamine
Dopamine is often described as a “reward” or “motivation” chemical. It helps to:
Dopamine deficit in ADHD
In ADHD, there is evidence of reduced dopamine activity in key brain regions, notably the prefrontal cortex and striatum. This deficit leads to:
The role of Noradrenaline
Noradrenaline is essential for:
Noradrenaline deficit in ADHD
Adults and children with ADHD often have suboptimal noradrenaline function in the locus coeruleus and prefrontal cortex, resulting in:
1 Prefrontal cortex (PFC)
2 Striatal pathways
3 Locus Coeruleus-PFC network
| Symptom Domain | Underlying Neurochemical issue | Functional consequence |
| Inattention | Low noradrenaline in PFC | Poor sustained alertness; easily distracted |
| Impulsivity | Insufficient dopamine “braking” signals | Acting without considering consequences |
| Hyperactivity | Dysregulated dopamine/noradrenaline arousal | Restlessness, fidgeting as a self-stimulation strategy |
| Motivation Deficit | Low dopamine in reward circuits | Difficulty initiating or persisting with tasks |
| Emotional Lability | Noradrenaline dysregulation | Rapid mood shifts, irritability under stress |
Between three and five children in every one hundred are diagnosed with ADHD. As these children become adults, around two-thirds continue to experience at least some symptoms. Of that adult group, many still meet full diagnostic criteria and may benefit from treatment and support.
A qualified specialist, such as a psychiatrist, clinical psychologist or ADHD-trained clinician, carries out a thorough clinical assessment. This assessment includes a detailed interview exploring symptom history from childhood to the present. The clinician evaluates how symptoms impact work performance, personal relationships and overall well-being. Standardised rating scales may be used to quantify symptom severity. Possible co-existing conditions such as anxiety, depression or learning difficulties are also considered. There are no blood tests or brain scans that can definitively diagnose ADHD, so the assessment is based on clinical history and functional impact.
NICE guidance recommends medication as the first-line treatment for adults unless contraindicated or declined. Stimulant medications include methylphenidate, dexamphetamine and lisdexamfetamine. Non-stimulant options include atomoxetine and guanfacine. Psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioural therapy adapted for ADHD may be offered alongside or instead of medication. These therapies focus on executive functioning, emotion regulation and development of coping strategies. You will receive a patient information leaflet for any prescribed medication detailing benefits, potential side-effects and management tips.
Organisational tools:
Use a physical planner, wall calendar or digital apps such as Todoist and Trello. Try the Pomodoro technique of 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break, and after four cycles, take a longer break of 15–20 minutes.
Lifestyle adjustments:
Maintain good sleep hygiene with a consistent bedtime routine. Include regular aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, to boost concentration. Follow a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats and plenty of fruit and vegetables while limiting refined sugars and excessive caffeine.
Mindfulness and stress management:
Practice daily mindfulness sessions for 5–10 minutes using guided recordings or apps. Use box breathing by inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 4 seconds, exhaling for 4 seconds and holding for 4 seconds whenever you feel overwhelmed.
Common side-effects and management
Appetite loss can be managed with small, nutrient-dense meals taken regularly throughout the day. Sleep disturbances often improve by taking medication earlier in the morning and avoiding afternoon doses. Mood fluctuations between doses can be noted in a diary and discussed with your GP for possible dose timing or formulation adjustments.
Comparative summary
| Medication | Typical schedule | Benefits | Side-effects and tips |
| Methylphenidate | 10–60 mg daily in short- or long-acting forms | Rapid onset and flexible dosing | Dry mouth (stay hydrated), Mood swings (keep routine) |
| Lisdexamfetamine | 30–70 mg once each morning | Smooth, sustained control with single daily dose | Nausea (take with food), Sleep issues (adjust timing) Mood changes |
| Dexamphetamine | 5–40 mg total daily, divided if needed | Smooth, sustained control with a single daily dose | Increased heart rate (monitor) Jitteriness (consider split doses) |
| Atomoxetine | 40–100 mg once or twice daily | Non-stimulant with lower abuse potential | Drowsiness (take at night), Low blood pressure (monitor) |
| Guanfacine | 1–4 mg daily | Alternative non-stimulant that may aid impulse control | Drowsiness (take at night) Low blood pressure (monitor) |
Adults with ADHD often experience anxiety disorders, depression or specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dyspraxia. If you have any of these additional challenges, you should discuss your unmet needs with your GP, who can arrange further assessments or referrals to specialist services such as counselling or educational support teams.
ADHD symptoms can affect work performance. Under the Equality Act 2010, you have the right to request reasonable adjustments such as flexible working hours, noise-reducing environments or clear written instructions.
Access to Work is a publicly funded employment support programme designed to help individuals with disabilities or health conditions start or maintain employment. To apply for Access to Work funding, you must be aged 16 or older, have a paid job or be about to start one (including apprenticeships and internships) have a mental or physical health condition or disability that makes your job more difficult and live and work in England, Scotland or Wales. For more information and to apply, visit the official government website at www.gov.uk/access-to-work.
ADHD coaching and occupational therapy
ADHD coaching provides one-to-one sessions focused on setting goals, developing time-management strategies and building accountability. Occupational therapists assess your environment and daily routines and recommend practical adaptations such as optimising workspace layout or creating visual prompts to improve focus and efficiency.
Local support groups
You can find regional ADHD meet-ups through the UK Adult ADHD Network at www.ukaan.org and via ADDISS at www.addiss.co.uk, where local groups and online communities are listed.
Reasonable adjustments in higher education
If you are in university or college, contact your institution’s Disability Services for an assessment of reasonable adjustments. Common accommodations include extra exam time, permission to record lectures, access to quiet rooms and note-taking support. Early engagement ensures these arrangements are in place before assessments.
Continued learning
Explore online courses and webinars from ADDISS, UKAAN and other professional bodies covering topics such as executive functioning, stress management and self-advocacy skills. Ongoing learning helps you stay informed about new strategies and supports personal development.
Caffeine is a stimulant that may amplify medication effects, potentially increasing heart rate, anxiety or sleep disturbances. A moderate amount such as one cup of coffee in the morning may help alertness but monitor your body’s response and reduce or avoid caffeine later in the day if you experience jitteriness or insomnia.
Short-acting stimulants generally begin working within 30–60 minutes and last 3–5 hours while long-acting formulations can last up to 12 hours. Non-stimulants such as atomoxetine may take 4–6 weeks to reach full effect. Optimal benefit usually requires 2–4 weeks of dose adjustment under your GP’s supervision.
Discuss any ongoing concerns or unmet needs with your GP. They can review and adjust your medication type or dose refer you for psychological therapies such as CBT or coaching and suggest additional self-management strategies or community resources.
Most adults tolerate ADHD medications well but mood fluctuations can occur as medication levels rise and fall. Keeping a diary of mood, concentration and side-effects at different times of day can help your GP identify patterns and adjust your treatment. Combining medication with therapies like CBT often leads to more stable long-term mood outcomes.
In addition to Access to Work you may qualify for disability benefits or grants. Citizens Advice and Turn2Us offer online benefits calculators and guidance on entitlements such as Personal Independence Payment, Universal Credit and other workplace schemes.
You must notify the DVLA if your ADHD symptoms or medication side-effects impair your ability to drive safely. If you are unsure, consult your GP. Guidance and notification forms are available at www.gov.uk/adhd-and-driving.
ADHD medications, including methylphenidate, dexamphetamine, lisdexamfetamine, and guanfacine, are controlled substances. Before you travel, obtain a letter from your prescribing GP confirming your name, medication, dosage, travel itinerary and total quantity. If your trip exceeds three months, you must apply for a personal import licence via the UK government website. Also, check the embassy or consulate websites for each country you visit to confirm any additional restrictions. Detailed information is at www.gov.uk/travelling-controlled-drugs.
If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a life-threatening emergency, dial 999 without delay.
For urgent medical advice outside of life-threatening situations, contact your GP or call NHS 111.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or in emotional crisis, you can call Samaritans any time on 116 123.
Safety plan template
Please note: We are not an emergency service, if you are in crisis and need urgent support or are worried about immediate risk of harm to self or others, please call 999. Alternatively, you can contact your GP and ask for an emergency appointment or visit your local A&E department. You can also contact the following services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: NHS Helpline (111) and Samaritans (116 123).