Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 

Evidence 

Association of preterm birth with ADHD-like cognitive impairments and addition subtle impairments in attention and arousal malleability. 
S-N James, A-S Rommel, C Cheung, G McLoughlin, D Brandeis, T Banaschewski, P Asherson, J Kuntsi 

We find impairments in cognition and brain function in preterm-born adolescents that are linked to increased ADHD symptoms, as well as further impairments, in lack of malleability in neurophysiological processes. Our findings indicate that such impairments extend at least to adolescence. Future studies should extend these investigations into adulthood. 

Education 

What is ADHD?  

ADHD is characterized by hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and an inability to concentrate or direct attention. It’s common in childhood and can impact school performance, relationships and day-to-day functioning. Between 4% and 12% of children have ADHD and its two times as likely to be recognised in boys than girls.  

What happens during pregnancy and childbirth can increase your child’s risk for attention deficit disorder (ADHD). Birthing parents who drink alcohol or smoke are more likely to have a child with ADHD. Babies born prematurely or sick have an increased risk of developing the condition.  

If you have concerns about your child’s behaviour, you might be wondering if your child is showing signs of attention deficit disorder (ADHD). This might be a particular concern for you if you have ADHD yourself, your other children do, or if the condition runs in your family. 

What does it look like at primary school age? 

• Can’t follow directions, forgets to bring things home, loses things (short term memory problems, inattentive) 

• Grabs things doesn’t consider consequences (impulsive) 

• Gets really frustrated (emotional regulation & flexibility) 

• Needs to be reminded to stop and listen (short term memory) 

• Getting started on tasks can be difficult (organisational skills) 

• Gets up, fidgets, restless (hyperactive) 

• Loses focus (inattentive)

CLICK HERE to read article. 

“I can ask my son to go feed the dog and he walks into the kitchen and gets a drink. I tell him again because he actually forgot while walking to the kitchen. It may look like he is not listening to me but it in reality he forgot. I normally have to redirect him without making him feel bad. I see this consistently so I know it’s not disobedience it’s short term memory problems. If I come up to him and say it eye to eye this can help too.” - Andrea, Mum to Aiden 

How is ADHD diagnosed? 

To be diagnosed with ADHD, your child will be evaluated by their paediatrician or a child psychiatrist There are certain criteria your child must meet to be diagnosed: 

• If your child is between the ages of 4 and 17, they must exhibit at least 6 signs of ADHD as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Signs include specific symptoms of impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. 

• These symptoms must be present in at least two settings, which may include school, home, and during social activities. 

• Symptoms must have lasted more than 6 months. 

• Symptoms must cause significant disruptions to your child’s life. 

As of early 2026, some GPs (family doctors) in NSW, WA, QLD, and VIC can now help diagnose and treat ADHD in children aged 6 years and older. 

These GPs have done extra training so they can: 

• assess children for ADHD 

• start the right medication if needed 

• manage and renew prescriptions 

This change helps families get support sooner and can reduce long waiting times to see a specialist. 

Empowerment 

With the right support, children with ADHD can do very well. Support may include a mix of things like medication, behaviour strategies and help for both your child and your family. These supports can help reduce challenges and build your child’s strengths. 

There are many skills and tools you can learn to make daily life easier and more positive. It can feel overwhelming when your child is first diagnosed, or when behaviours become more challenging. These feelings are common, but it’s important to know that things can improve. With the right help, children with ADHD can have a bright and happy future—especially when families and schools work together. 

If you are worried about your child’s behaviour, start by speaking with your GP (family doctor). They can guide you and, in some cases, now diagnose your child. 

If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, your healthcare professional will talk with you about treatment options. This may include medication and other support. It’s helpful to learn about the benefits and possible side effects, so you can make the best decision together with your child and their care team. 

Famous people with ADHD 

Steven Spielberg 
Richard Bronson 
Walt Disney 
Emma Watson 
Dick Smith 

Special thanks for ADHD Australia for content sharing and providing support for families. 

Useful links 

ADHD Australia 

https://www.adhdaustralia.org.au 

The Royal Children’s Hospital -Melbourne 

https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder_ADHD/ 

Raising Children 

https://raisingchildren.net.au/school-age/development/adhd/adhd 

ABC News 

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-06/adhd-diagnosis-changes-gp-doctor-demand/106419522 

Agency for Clinical Innovation NSW

https://aci.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/adhd-in-general-practice/consumers 

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, 
it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” - Albert Einstein

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