GPAtlas🧭 When to suspect
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition defined by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity–impulsivity.
• The pattern begins in childhood and causes real impairment across daily life.
• Common – affecting roughly 3–4% of adults – and lifelong in most.
• Frequently under-recognised, particularly in girls and women, who are less likely to be referred and more likely to be misdiagnosed with another condition.
In primary care, know your role: a GP does not diagnose ADHD or start medication.
• The GP recognises the pattern, assesses severity and impact and excludes mimics.
• The GP refers for specialist assessment, and then supports the patient – including shared-care monitoring once treatment is established.
| Core symptom domain | Typical features (children and adults) |
|---|---|
| Inattention | • Difficulty sustaining attention, easily distracted, forgetful, disorganised, loses things, careless mistakes, avoids sustained mental effort • In adults: poor time management, missed deadlines, half-finished tasks |
| Hyperactivity | Fidgeting, restlessness, difficulty staying seated, excessive talking, "always on the go". In adults: often an inner restlessness rather than overt overactivity. |
| Impulsivity | • Acts without thinking, interrupts, cannot wait their turn, blurts out answers • In adults: impulsive decisions, overspending, risk-taking and emotional dysregulation |
To support a diagnosis, symptoms should:
• Be persistent (≥ 6 months).
• Be present in two or more settings (home, school/work, social).
• Have begun in childhood.
• Cause at least moderate impairment, meeting DSM-5 or ICD-11 criteria.
The formal diagnosis is made only by a specialist (child psychiatrist, paediatrician, or a specialist ADHD/adult mental health service).
Source: NICE NG87
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