What is ADHD?

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ADHD is a condition characterised by:

• Inattentiveness
• Hyperactivity
• Impulsivity.

It affects 3-9% of the population, numbering around 3500 children in Liverpool alone. Unsupported it can lead to major social and educational exclusion.

This is what the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence says about ADHD:

"ADHD is a heterogeneous behavioural syndrome characterised by the core
symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. ADHD is thought to affect about 3–9% of school age children and young people in the UK, and about 2% of adults worldwide. In general, ADHD is a persisting disorder. Of the young people with a sustained diagnosis, most will go on to have significant difficulties in adulthood, which may include continuing ADHD, personality disorders, emotional and social difficulties, substance misuse, unemployment and involvement in crime"

National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence 2008.