Play all audios:
Nearly two-and-a-half million people in England are likely to have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), new figures suggest. It is the first time an estimate has been made
publicly available of the prevalence of ADHD among the population. A total of 2,498,000 people may have ADHD, including those without a diagnosis, according to NHS England. Of this number,
an estimated 741,000 are children and young people aged five to 24. The figures also suggest that more than half a million people (549,000) in England were waiting for an ADHD assessment in
March 2025. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It influences the way individuals focus, regulate
impulses, and manage energy levels. ADHD is recognised as a medical condition in the UK and is typically diagnosed during childhood, although many adults are also diagnosed later in life.
MAIN TYPES OF ADHD ADHD is usually categorised into three types: * Predominantly inattentive presentation * Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation * Combined presentation (a mix of
both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms) COMMON SYMPTOMS OF ADHD INATTENTIVENESS * Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play * Frequently makes careless mistakes in
schoolwork or at work * Appears not to listen when spoken to directly * Fails to follow through on instructions or finish tasks * Often loses things necessary for tasks (e.g. books, glasses,
mobile phones) * Easily distracted by unrelated stimuli * Frequently forgetful in daily activities HYPERACTIVITY * Fidgets or squirms in seat * Often leaves seat in situations when
remaining seated is expected * Runs or climbs in inappropriate situations (in teens/adults, may feel restless) * Talks excessively * Difficulty engaging in activities quietly IMPULSIVITY *
Blurts out answers before a question is completed * Difficulty waiting their turn * Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g. butts into conversations or games) ADDITIONAL POINTS * Adults with
ADHD may struggle with organisation, time management, emotional regulation, and maintaining relationships. * Not everyone with ADHD displays all the symptoms, and the severity can vary. *
Symptoms must be persistent and impair daily functioning to meet diagnostic criteria. * Diagnosis in the UK is usually made by a psychiatrist, paediatrician, or specialist clinician, often
after referral by a GP.