We know from research studies that genes play an important role in whether someone has ADHD. There are also lots of other factors involved, including social and environmental factors.

Family studies have found that the risk of being diagnosed with ADHD is nine times higher in siblings of someone with ADHD, when compared to siblings of someone without ADHD.

People who have neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, are also more likely to have ADHD than people who don’t. Studies into twins and siblings have found common genetic risk factors for ADHD and other neuropsychiatric conditions. These include autism and other childhood neurodevelopmental disorders.

Sometimes parents feel blamed for not having controlled their child, but there is no evidence that poor parenting directly causes ADHD. However, it is important to note that parents can play a crucial role in helping and managing a child with ADHD.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

ADHD behaviours can vary depending on age and environment, such as school, home, or playground. Additionally, a child's motivation can influence how these behaviours manifest, especially when they're engaged in activities they find enjoyable.

Not all children have all the symptoms. This means some can just have problems with poor attention, while others are mainly hyperactive.

• Children with problems of attention can appear forgetful, distracted, not seeming to listen, disorganised, take ages to start doing things and then when they do they rarely finish it.
• Children with hyperactivity seem restless, fidgety, full of energy ‘always on the go’. They may seem loud, noisy with a continuous chatter. 
• Children with symptoms of impulsivity do things without thinking. They have difficulty waiting for their turn in games or in a queue, interrupt people in conversation and have difficulty regulating their emotions. 
• Children with ADHD may have other underlying challenges such as learning difficulties, autism, anxiety and depression.