Features of ADHD

This section describes the key features of ADHD. This includes an often overlooked and misinterpreted feature: difficulty regulating emotions. 

The ADHD Brain

ADHD is associated with lower levels and utility of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline. Dopamine is closely associated with reward, motivation, emotional regulation, memory, and learning.


We all naturally need dopamine – especially when engaged in tasks that require sustained concentration. When we understand the role of dopamine in the brain, then we can understand why children and young people with ADHD can be highly distractible, constantly seeking new stimuli and experiences and presenting with difficulties with activities that they are not particularly interested in.

Man sat alone, holding his head
the adhd brain vs non adhd brain graphic
Woman teaching a young boy

Difficulties with Attention

  • Careless mistakes and lack of attention to detail
  • Continually starting new tasks before finishing old ones
  • Poor organisational and time management skills
  • Inability to focus; zoning out in conversations and finding it hard to listen
  • Struggling to follow instructions
  • Continually losing or misplacing things
  • Forgetfulness
  • Easily distracted from tasks
  • Procrastinating particularly with tasks requiring sustained effort
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Symptoms of ADHD



(Attention-Deficit  Hyperactivity Disorder)

Common signs of ADHD in adults

ADHD symptoms can affect attention, activity levels, communication, and everyday routines. They may show up differently from person to person and can vary in intensity.


Adults with ADHD may experience challenges such as:

  • Fidgeting with hands or feet, squirming in a chair, or finding it difficult to stay seated
  • Inner restlessness and a persistent need to move around
  • Becoming easily bored, even during tasks or activities that require focus
  • Constantly rushing around or feeling driven to stay active


ADHD can also affect communication and relationships. Common challenges include:

  • Difficulty keeping quiet in situations where it is expected
  • Blurting out responses before others have finished speaking
  • Poor social timing when talking with others
  • Frequently interrupting conversations
  • Difficulty waiting for your turn
  • Difficulty maintaining relationships because of impulsive behaviours, communication challenges, or inconsistency in attention
  • These experiences can affect work, education, daily responsibilities, and personal relationships, although symptoms can vary widely between individuals.

Emotional regulation difficulties in children

Children with ADHD may also experience difficulties managing emotions. Common signs can include:

  • Emotional responses that seem out of proportion to the situation
  • Struggling to calm down after becoming upset
  • Low tolerance for frustration
  • Feeling overwhelmed by emotions
  • Difficulty controlling anger


These experiences can affect school, friendships, and day-to-day interactions, and may vary from child to child.

Upset child with his head in his arms

Learn more about ADHD

Someone sat with their head in their hands
By Gurmat Khangura March 6, 2024
Undiagnosed or untreated ADHD can lead to difficulties in time management, relationship problems, and issues with emotional regulation.
Woman with her head in her hadns looking distressed
By Leanne Mitchell March 6, 2024
Gender stereotypes has led to many young girls and women going undiagnosed and their difficulties not accurately recognised.
Chalk drawing of someones mind with ADHD
By Gurmat Khangura February 28, 2024
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder which is usually first diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, learn more about the symptoms