What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, with or without hyperactivity) is a form of neurodivergence that affects the brain's executive functioning: the ability to organize, plan, regulate attention, manage time, and control impulses.
It affects approximately 5-7% of the child population and 2.5-4% of adults. It is not a matter of "willpower", "discipline", or "bad parenting": it is a real neurobiological difference in how dopamine and noradrenaline function in the brain.
One of the great myths is that ADHD is "just for kids": in reality, 60-70% of children with ADHD continue to present significant symptoms in adulthood, and many people, especially women, are not diagnosed until well into adult life.
The three subtypes of ADHD
Inattentive subtype (ADHD-I)
The predominant feature is difficulty maintaining attention: getting distracted easily, forgetting tasks, losing objects, trouble following instructions, and problems organizing oneself. It is often "mistaken" for being "dreamy" or "forgetful". This is the most common subtype in women and the most underdiagnosed.
Hyperactive-Impulsive subtype (ADHD-HI)
The predominant features are motor hyperactivity and impulsivity: difficulty staying still, talking excessively, interrupting, trouble waiting one's turn, and acting without thinking. In adults, hyperactivity is often internal (a mind that won't stop, restlessness, a constant need for activity).
Combined subtype (ADHD-C)
A combination of the two above. It is the most common globally. Presentation varies greatly between individuals and can change throughout life (a hyperactive child may become a predominantly inattentive adult).
Symptoms of ADHD in adults
While in children the symptoms are more visible (motor hyperactivity), in adults ADHD often manifests in more subtle ways:
- Chronic procrastination: putting off tasks until the last minute, despite wanting to do them
- Organizational difficulties: mess, forgetting appointments, being systematically late
- Hyperfocus: a paradoxical ability to concentrate intensely on topics of interest, but difficulty with others
- Emotional dysregulation: intense emotional reactions, rapid mood swings, low frustration tolerance
- Internal restlessness: a mind that "doesn't stop", difficulty relaxing, a constant need for stimulation
- Impulsivity: impulse buying, frequently changing jobs or projects, interrupting conversations
- Difficulties with time perception: "time blindness" (failing to perceive the passing of time)
ADHD in women: the silent epidemic
Women with ADHD represent one of the most underdiagnosed groups in mental health. The reasons:
- They predominantly present the inattentive subtype (without visible hyperactivity)
- Female socialization leads them to mask ADHD with much greater effort
- Their difficulties are confused with anxiety, depression, or "character problems"
- Their compensation strategies often collapse with motherhood or increased responsibilities
- Hormonal fluctuations (menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause) affect symptoms
The strengths of ADHD
ADHD is not only difficulties. Many people with ADHD stand out for:
- Creativity: divergent thinking, original connections between ideas
- Hyperfocus: the ability to concentrate intensely on topics of interest
- Energy and enthusiasm: passion and intensity in projects that motivate them
- Resilience: the ability to adapt, having had to overcome obstacles constantly
- Spontaneity and humor: the ability to connect with people authentically
ADHD treatment
Cognitive-behavioural therapy adapted for ADHD
CBT for ADHD focuses on practical strategies: organizational systems, time management, building habits, emotional regulation, and working on self-esteem (often damaged after years of feeling "inadequate"). For children, child therapy includes work with the family.
Medication
Medication (stimulants such as methylphenidate or non-stimulants such as atomoxetine) can be a very valuable complement for improving attention and impulse control. It is not mandatory, and the decision is always individual and medical.
Does this sound familiar?
If you recognize yourself in what you have read, know that you are not "lazy", or "disorganized", or "too intense": your brain works differently, and understanding how it works is the first step toward living better. I offer a free informational session.