There are three major types of ADHD:

ADHD combined type: This is the most common type of ADHD. It is characterised by the presence of all three core symptoms – difficulty in paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

ADHD impulsive/hyperactive type: This type of ADHD is characterised mainly by impulsive, hyperactive or restless behaviour & includes some issues with attention.

ADHD inattentive and distractible type: This type is characterised mainly by inattention and distractibility. There will be very little to no hyperactivity.

Researchers have not been able to figure out the exact cause of ADHD. It has been theorised that multiple factors may contribute to its development, which may be:

Genes: ADHD is heritable, and runs in families.

Environment: Early childhood environmental factors may play a role in its development.

Prenatal factors: Problems during the development of the central nervous system in the mother’s womb, especially in the first three months of pregnancy, may play a role.

Remember, ADHD is never a character flaw or laziness - it is a mental health disorder, and you should treat yourself with compassion if you have it. It is also important to remember that ADHD can be managed with proper support and you can live a completely normal life with this condition.

The symptoms of ADHD may look like:

• Difficulty focusing, prioritising tasks, waiting for things

• Forgetfulness, like losing things frequently

• Difficulty in organising may lead to missed deadlines, forgotten meetings, and forgetting social plans

• A hard time controlling impulses

• Poor listening skills

• Rushing through tasks

• Acting without much consideration for the consequences

• Difficulty in falling asleep or relaxing

• Overlooking details in tasks

• Outbursts of anger or easy irritability

• Poor time management

• Excessive activity, restlessness, inability to sit still, fidgeting

• Low tolerance to frustration and mood swings

• Problems following through or completing tasks

• Reckless behaviour such as reckless driving, problems in their personal relationships, and substance misuse

ADHD often occurs alongside other mental health disorders making diagnosis and treatment more difficult and challenging. They may co-exist with the following disorders:

Mood Disorders like Depression & Bipolar Disorder: It is common for people to experience difficulty or failures in day-to-day tasks due to the nature of ADHD. This can induce depression or worsen it in some people. Mood disorders like bipolar may co-exist with ADHD. Occasionally, ADHD may be mistakenly diagnosed as a mood disorder.

Anxiety Disorders like Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Anxiety disorders may co-exist and may be worsened in the presence of ADHD. The restlessness present in ADHD may sometimes be confused with anxiety.

Other psychiatric disorders: Adults with ADHD are at increased risk of other mental health disorders like personality disorders and addictions.

Learning difficulties: Even though many people with ADHD may have poor academic performance, this may largely be due to poor attention span and associated difficulties. IQ, in fact, may be normal or even high in some of them. But some people may have additional learning difficulties, in addition to the difficulty in paying attention. These need proper testing and guidance from a mental health expert.

There are various psychometric assessments you can take such as the Conner's assessment or the DIVA assessment. At Amaha, we prescribe the DIVA assessment for those above 18. The DIVA (Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults) is a structured diagnostic interview designed to identify ADHD in adults. It evaluates symptoms based on both childhood and adulthood experiences. The DIVA Assessment typically takes about 90 minutes to complete. Before taking the DIVA assessment, it is necessary to book a session with a psychiatrist as they will be able to guide you with which test to take and the procedure for the same.

Yes, your psychometric assessment can be conducted online. However, we recommend in-person assessments as certain ADHD medication can’t be digitally prescribed.

Yes, it is essential to bring someone who has known you since childhood. This person will provide insights into your behaviours and symptoms from an early age, which is critical for an accurate diagnosis. Without a companion, you will not be able to complete the DIVA assessment.

Online self-assessments are preliminary tools to identify potential ADHD symptoms. The DIVA Assessment is a formal, clinically validated interview that provides a definitive diagnosis.

ADHD can look different for everyone. It commonly presents as inattention (e.g., difficulty focusing, disorganisation, easily distracted, forgetfulness), hyperactivity (e.g., fidgeting, restlessness, excessive talking), and impulsivity (e.g., interrupting, difficulty waiting turn, hasty decisions). These symptoms often interfere with daily functioning at school, work, or in relationships.

Yes, with proper diagnosis, effective treatment (which may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments), and the development of coping strategies, individuals with ADHD can lead highly fulfilling lives.

ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, self-control, and activity levels, impacting functions like planning, organising, and managing time.

ADHD can cause a range of problems, including academic difficulties, challenges with job performance, relationship issues due to impulsivity or inattention, difficulties with time management and organisation, increased risk of accidents, and often co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression.

The most effective type of counselling for ADHD is often Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which helps individuals develop organisational skills, time management strategies, and techniques for managing impulsivity and emotional regulation. Behavioural therapy is also highly effective, especially for children, focusing on structured routines and reward systems.

Counsellors for ADHD help individuals develop practical skills and strategies to manage their symptoms. This includes teaching organisational techniques, time management, impulse control, emotional regulation, and social skills. They also provide support, help identify strengths, and work with clients to develop personalised coping mechanisms that help with daily challenges.