Understanding ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is typically characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, many adults also experience symptoms that may have gone unrecognised for years.

Core Features of ADHD

ADHD primarily affects individuals in three key areas:

  • Inattention – Difficulty sustaining focus, forgetfulness, struggling with organisation, frequently losing things, or being easily distracted.
  • Hyperactivity – Restlessness, difficulty sitting still, feeling mentally “on the go,” and struggling to relax.
  • Impulsivity – Acting without thinking, interrupting conversations, difficulty waiting, or making quick decisions without considering consequences.

Other Features of ADHD

Beyond these core symptoms, ADHD can also present with:

  • Emotional Regulation Difficulties – Struggles with managing emotions, leading to intense frustration, sudden mood shifts, or feeling easily overwhelmed.
  • Rejection Sensitivity – Heightened emotional reactions to perceived rejection or criticism, often leading to avoidance, anxiety, or intense emotional distress.
  • Difficulty with Transitions – Struggles with switching between tasks or adjusting to new routines.
  • Hyperfocus – Intense concentration on interesting tasks while struggling to focus on everyday responsibilities.
  • Sensory Sensitivities – Heightened sensitivity to noise, textures, bright lights, or strong smells, which can contribute to distraction, overwhelm, and emotional regulation difficulties.
  • Sleep Difficulties – Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or maintaining a consistent sleep routine.


Understanding these additional features can help individuals recognise ADHD beyond the typical focus and activity-related symptoms.

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How ADHD Can Affect Daily Life

ADHD can influence multiple aspects of life, including:

  • Work & Education – Challenges with time management, meeting deadlines, staying organised, and maintaining attention in long meetings or lectures.
  • Relationships – Difficulties with listening, interrupting, or impulsive reactions that may affect interactions with family, friends, or colleagues.
  • Emotional Wellbeing – Feelings of frustration, overwhelm, or low self-esteem, especially if ADHD has been undiagnosed for many years.
  • Daily Responsibilities – Forgetting appointments, struggling to complete household tasks, difficulty managing finances, or feeling easily distracted by competing priorities.
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How ADHD Can Affect Daily Life

ADHD & Women

ADHD in women is often underdiagnosed or misunderstood, as symptoms may present differently compared to men. Historically, ADHD has been associated with hyperactivity and impulsivity, traits that are more commonly recognised in boys. However, women with ADHD are more likely to exhibit inattentive symptoms, making their struggles less visible and leading to delayed diagnosis.

  • More Inattentive Symptoms – Difficulties with focus, organisation, and memory rather than hyperactivity.
  • Masking & Coping Strategies – Many women develop ways to hide their struggles, such as excessive organisation, perfectionism, or people-pleasing behaviours.
  • Emotional Sensitivity & Regulation Issues – Higher rates of emotional dysregulation, mood swings, and anxiety compared to men with ADHD.
  • Higher Risk of Misdiagnosis – ADHD symptoms in women can be mistaken for depression, anxiety, or personality disorders, leading to inappropriate treatment.
  • Hormonal Influences – ADHD symptoms may fluctuate due to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause.

ADHD & Self-Image

Many people with ADHD grow up feeling different or out of place. Repeated experiences of struggling with organisation, focus, or impulsivity in environments that are not designed for neurodivergent minds can lead to:

  • Frustration & Self-Doubt – Wondering why certain tasks seem harder than they are for others.
  • Low Self-Esteem – Feeling like they are not “good enough” due to difficulties at school or work.
  • Masking – Developing coping mechanisms to hide symptoms, which can lead to exhaustion and burnout.

Why a Diagnosis Can Help

Receiving an ADHD diagnosis can provide Lighthouse and self-understanding, helping individuals:

  • Recognise ADHD as a neurological difference, not a personal failing.
  • Understand past struggles in a new light and build self-acceptance.
  • Develop practical strategies to manage focus, organisation, and impulsivity.
  • Explore workplace or educational accommodations to better support productivity.
  • Gain access to post-diagnosis support to improve overall wellbeing.

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