ADHD: Understanding the mind in motion

We often hear people casually say, “I’m so ADHD today,” when they forget something or feel distracted. But for millions around the world, ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is not a momentary lapse in focus it's a complex neurodevelopmental condition that touches every aspect of daily life.

Far from being a “lack of discipline” or “just bad behaviour,” ADHD is a genuine and often misunderstood condition that affects how individuals think, process, and interact with the world. And with the right understanding and support, people with ADHD can thrive in ways that are uniquely powerful.

Contact our dedicated team in London today if you need specialist support for ADHD.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a condition that impacts attention, impulse control, and activity levels. It begins in childhood, though many aren’t diagnosed until adolescence or even adulthood. People with ADHD may struggle to concentrate, finish tasks, or sit still but the experience of ADHD is different for everyone.

There are three primary types of ADHD:

• Predominantly Inattentive Type – Difficulty focusing, disorganisation, forgetfulness, frequent daydreaming.

• Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type – Excessive fidgeting, restlessness, impulsive speech or actions.

• Combined Type – A mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

Dr Ashish Arora, Consultant Psychiatrist at Schoen Clinic Chelsea, shares:

“ADHD is not a behavioural problem; it’s a neurodevelopmental one. The ADHD brain processes information differently, often with immense creativity and speed, but also with challenges in regulating attention and self-control.”

Signs and symptoms

• Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks or conversations

• Forgetfulness and frequent misplacement of items

• Impulsive decisions or interruptions during conversations

• Restlessness, fidgeting, or difficulty sitting still

• Trouble following through with instructions or long-term planning

• Emotional sensitivity and mood swings

In adults, ADHD may manifest as chronic disorganisation, procrastination, relationship difficulties, or even burnout from overcompensating to “keep up.”

It’s important to understand that these behaviours are not due to laziness or carelessness. They stem from differences in how the brain regulates dopamine a chemical that plays a key role in motivation, focus, and reward processing.

Living with ADHD: the hidden struggles

ADHD is often invisible. People with the condition may appear “fine” on the outside, but internally, they may be fighting constant mental noise, frustration, or self-doubt.

Many individuals, especially women, go undiagnosed for years because their symptoms don’t match the stereotypical image of “hyperactive boys.” Instead, they internalise their struggles, often receiving labels like “scattered,” “too emotional,” or “just disorganised.”

“Undiagnosed ADHD can lead to secondary issues like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem,” notes Dr Arora. “When people finally receive a diagnosis, it often brings both relief and grief relief for the explanation, and grief for the time lost.”

What can be done?

The good news is that ADHD is highly manageable with the right combination of strategies

1. Medication

Stimulant medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin) or amphetamines (Elvanse), as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine, can help balance brain chemistry, improving focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation.

“Medication is often life-changing for those with ADHD,” says Dr Arora. “It’s not about sedation it’s about helping the brain function more efficiently.”

2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) & Coaching

CBT can help individuals identify negative thought patterns and build practical strategies for managing time, stress, and tasks. ADHD coaching offers tools and accountability to stay organised and work with the ADHD brain, not against it.

3. Lifestyle & Structure

• Sleep: Consistent rest supports emotional and cognitive function.

• Exercise: Movement boosts dopamine, improving focus and mood.

• Routine: Predictability reduces overwhelm and builds executive functioning.

• Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation can enhance self-awareness and impulse control.

4. Environmental Accommodations

In schools and workplaces, support like flexible deadlines, noise-free workspaces, and visual reminders can make a huge difference in performance and confidence.

Embracing the ADHD brain

Despite its challenges, the ADHD brain has unique strengths. Creativity, empathy, out-of-the-box thinking, high energy, and hyperfocus on passions are just a few traits that shine when nurtured properly.

“ADHD isn’t a deficit of attention it’s a difference in attention,” Dr Arora emphasises. “When we stop trying to force ADHD brains into neurotypical moulds and instead support their differences, incredible things happen.”

Final thoughts

Living with ADHD is like trying to tune a radio with too many signals coming in at once sometimes the music is beautiful, other times it’s overwhelming. But with the right tools, the right understanding, and the right support, the signal becomes clearer.

Whether you're someone with ADHD or someone who loves someone with it, know this: you are not broken. Your brain is wired differently and in that difference lies incredible potential.

Recognise it. Support it. Celebrate it.

Because every mind in motion or not deserves to be understood and empowered.

At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we offer Consultant-led assessments for adults with suspected ADHD. Our comprehensive ADHD assessments help to efficiently diagnose or effectively rule out ADHD.

If you already have a diagnosis of ADHD and are seeking management support, we also offer a holistic 6-week ADHD treatment package.

This page was reviewed and approved by Dr Ashish Arora on 10.04.2025