Dr. Zaidi from MindNLife breaks down the different types of ADHD and explains the diagnostic process using DSM-5 criteria. Learn about the key signs we look for to make an accurate diagnosis and gain insights into how ADHD affects children.
What Is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. Characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, ADHD influences how people focus, organise tasks, and regulate their actions.
It presents differently in each person—some experience primarily inattentive symptoms, others mainly hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, and many experience a combination of both. Far from being a simple behavioural issue, ADHD involves differences in brain structure and function that impact executive functioning skills like planning, prioritising, and time management.
Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can feel overwhelming at times. At MindNLife Psychology, we understand the unique challenges that ADHD presents in daily life, work, and relationships.
Our specialised team offers evidence-based assessment and treatment approaches tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’re experiencing difficulty with concentration, impulsivity, or organisation, our compassionate practitioners are here to help you develop effective strategies and embrace your strengths.
For adults or children experiencing any recognised ADHD symptoms, simply obtaining a diagnosis can significantly improve mental wellbeing.
As ADHD specialists, we’re dedicated to making a meaningful difference in your life. Even if the assessment determines you don’t have ADHD, this clarity can be liberating and help break the cycle of uncertainty and worry you might be experiencing.
ADHD Misconceptions
One of the most common misconceptions about ADHD is that it affects all aspects of a person’s life equally. In reality, ADHD is interest-based—many individuals can hyperfocus on subjects they find engaging while struggling significantly with tasks they find uninteresting.
This explains why a child might appear “perfectly behaved” at school yet disorganised at home, or why an adult might excel in their career but struggle with routine paperwork. People with ADHD often develop sophisticated masking strategies in public environments where they want to be accepted, only to exhaust these resources in more comfortable settings.
Another widespread misunderstanding is that academic success rules out ADHD. Many bright students cope well until facing increased demands on their executive functioning during crucial examination periods like GCSEs or A-levels, when their potential and performance suddenly diverge.
Similarly, adults with ADHD may manage complex work responsibilities effectively while finding everyday tasks like completing forms or paying bills on time disproportionately challenging.
As ADHD Specialists, we help clients understand these nuances, developing personalised strategies that work with their unique attention patterns rather than against them.
Hear Dr. Zaidi from MindNLife Psychology Practice talk about the various misconceptions about ADHD. Find out what is true and what is myth.
Dr. Zaidi from MindNLife talks about ADHD in Kids and how to talk to children about their diagnosis.
ADHD in Kids
Understanding ADHD in your child begins with recognising that their brain is simply wired differently—not deficiently. Children with ADHD process information in unique ways that may not align with traditional classroom expectations, but these differences often come with remarkable strengths like creativity, passion and hyperfocus on interests.
ADHD presents individually in each child, with varying impacts on attention, impulsivity, organisation and social interactions. The key to supporting your child lies in learning their specific challenges—whether it’s maintaining focus in certain environments, managing powerful emotions, or breaking down complex instructions into manageable steps.
Supporting a child with ADHD requires patience, consistency and personalised strategies tailored to their unique needs. Simple approaches like placing them where distractions are minimised, breaking instructions into three steps rather than overwhelming lists, establishing consistent sleep routines, and teaching self-regulation techniques (like counting to ten before responding) can make significant differences in daily functioning. Rather than focusing solely on challenges, help your child recognise when their brain works differently and collaboratively develop practical solutions. With the right understanding and support, children with ADHD can thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
At MindNLife Psychology, we specialise in comprehensive ADHD assessments and individualised support for children and families. Our expert psychologists will help you understand your child’s unique ADHD presentation and develop practical, effective strategies for home and school.
Book your initial consultation today and begin your family’s journey toward thriving with expert strategies from an ADHD specialist.
Is Online Therapy Effective?
Research shows that tele-therapy can be as effective as in-person sessions for many psychological concerns.
Our clients report high satisfaction rates with their online treatment outcomes.
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Take the first step towards better mental health with MindNLife Psychology Practice’s ADHD Specialists.
Contact us to schedule your initial consultation or learn more about our online therapy services.
To learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation with a Clinical Psychologist, please contact us.
Our team will ensure you’re matched with the most appropriate Clinical Psychologist to address your specific needs.