Living With ADHD (Horizon - BBC)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most feared and misunderstood of all medical conditions. Despite over 200 scientific papers being published on this neurological condition every year, it remains stigmatised and controversial. Some doctors don't even believe it exists.

Yet it is estimated that as many as 3-5% of the childhood population, and over one million adults in the UK are affected by ADHD. These people are often described as stupid, lazy, disorganised, wild, out of control or woozy on drugs. But the reality is altogether more complex, and deeply moving.
Scientists believe that people with ADHD behave the way they do because they have key differences in the frontal lobes of their brains - the part that plays an important role in the way that we control our impulses. People with ADHD have difficulty suppressing their impulses and therefore respond to more cues than the average person. Rather than failing to pay attention, they pay attention to everything. This means they're often overloaded with information they cannot filter out. These people are unable to stop and think about a situation, to 'apply the brakes' and consider the consequences before they act.

There is no quick fix. But with the right support, children and adults with ADHD can control their symptoms and lead happy and fulfilled lives. (Source)

Watch the full documentary here