How to know if you have ADHD

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “ADHD can significantly impact a person’s life, extending far beyond the core symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity,” Mashru says. However, Warlow points out that the official criteria for the diagnosis of ADHD says it’s forgetfulness that interferes with functioning or development, and stresses: “This really differentiates day-to-day difficulties – for example, forgetting where you left your keys or forgetting a one-off appointment = with a formal diagnosis.” Easily distracted Having ADHD can lead to adults becoming distracted by other things, instead of concentrating on the task at hand. Warlow says people who have the condition may have difficulty sitting still for extended periods, and adds: “This is more noticeable in children, who might seem like they’re always on the go, but adults can experience it too, often in the form of inner restlessness.” open image in gallery An accurate ADHD diagnosis means people can get the correct advice and support Talking a lot Excessive talking and difficulty taking turns in conversations can be another symptom of ADHD, says Mashru. Risky behaviour Mashru says the impulsivity linked to some types of ADHD may lead to people taking unnecessary risks, or engaging in impulsive actions.