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Ways to use this site

• Find a path that fitsTwo or three plain questions, then guides chosen for what you picked.
• Browse topics and guidesGo straight to everything that has been reviewed and published.
• Tell us how much capacity you haveShorter or fuller reading, your choice — you can change it at any time.
• Ask Finn a questionFinn helps you find reviewed information in plain English. Finn does not diagnose ADHD and is not a crisis service.

1. What ADHD is

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a recognised neurodevelopmental difference in how attention, activity and self-regulation work. It is not a lack of effort, intelligence or good parenting.

For a fuller overview of ADHD from the NHS, including causes and treatment, read the NHS ADHD pages listed under “Trusted UK sources” below. We do not describe causes or treatments ourselves until a qualified reviewer has approved that content.

2. Common signs people notice

People often describe difficulty sustaining attention on non-preferred tasks, restlessness, acting before thinking, disorganisation, forgetfulness, and strong emotional responses.

Everyone experiences some of these sometimes. What matters clinically is how often they happen, how long they have been happening and how much they affect everyday life — which only a qualified professional can assess.

3. Children compared with adults

In children, ADHD is often first noticed at school or at home — through movement, interruptions, incomplete work or big feelings.

In adults, it more often shows up as difficulty with planning, time, deadlines, routines, sustaining work, or long-standing patterns that were never explained.

4. Practical first steps

Write down what you actually notice — situations, frequency, and how long it has been happening.

Change one small thing at a time. Simple external structure (visible lists, timers, consistent routines, fewer competing demands) helps more than trying to change everything at once.

Be careful with information sources. Prefer national health services, clinical guidelines and qualified professionals.

5. Where professional support fits

Only a qualified health professional can assess or diagnose ADHD. If ADHD is affecting school, work, relationships or wellbeing, speak with your GP or an equivalent clinician and bring your notes with you.

If you or someone else is at immediate risk of harm, contact your local emergency services straight away.

Topics with published guides

Our published guides so far are practical, everyday ones for adults. Guides on children, young people and diagnosis are being written and will appear only after specialist review.

• Everyday Life
• Time and Organisation
• Work and Productivity
• Focus and Executive Function
• Getting Started and Procrastination

Trusted UK sources

Independent, reputable places to read more or find support.