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What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex neuro-developmental disorder which affects a person’s ability to exert age-appropriate self-control.



ADHD can cause significant functional disability throughout the lifespan and in all areas of life, and without appropriate intervention can lead to significantly unfavourable outcomes.

However, with evidence-based treatment and support, people with ADHD can embrace their strengths and interests, learn to manage their challenges and live a full and rewarding life.

ADHD affects one in twenty Australians, that’s around 1.2 million people, but is frequently misunderstood and contrary to prevailing myths is under-diagnosed.

These myths are both unhelpful and not evidence-based. There is no evidence that ADHD is caused by poor parenting, watching too much TV, eating sugar, family stress or traumatic experiences. It is also untrue that children with ADHD are simply ‘naughty children’. We would encourage you to get the 'ADHD Facts' and take a closer look within our researched evidence sections of our website.

is WA's ADHD medication prescribing rate (much less than the 5% est with ADHD)
of children with ADHD have been subject to bullying

Parents for ADHD Advocacy (2019) Parent & carer experiences of ADHD in Australian schools: Critical gaps report.

of persons with ADHD have yet to be diagnosed
of parents surveyed changed their child’s school due to ADHD

ADHD is just a different way of thinking


The positives of ADHD:







Hyper focus on interests

Spontaneous engagement



The negatives of ADHD:

Difficulty sleeping

Easily distracted





Constant chatter