Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), sometimes referred to, as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a neurobiological disorder caused by an imbalance of some of the neurotransmitters found in the brain, called dopamine and norepinephrine. The main symptoms are:

• overactive behaviour (hyperactivity)
• impulsive behaviour
• difficulty in paying attention

It can have a major impact, not only on the individual, but also on the lives of their family members and other people with whom they come into contact.

Official figures show that at least 5% of the population have the disorder which can lead the individual to develop educational, behavioural and conduct problems or emotional difficulties and to suffer from low self-esteem.

Diagnosis is usually made by a healthcare professional on the basis of a comprehensive list of symptoms, which include disorganisation, forgetfulness and being easily distracted.
ADHD behaviours occur to some extent in all of us but the difference between ADHD and ormal behaviour is the extent of the problem and the difficulties it causes.