Science & technology | Into focus

Researchers are questioning if ADHD should be seen as a disorder

It should, instead, be seen as a different way of being normal

illustration of a human profile outlined in branches, with tree-like veins filling the head. Surrounding green foliage and additional branches blend with the head shape
Illustration: Nathalie Lees

IT IS “LIKE being inside a pinball machine with a hundred balls,” says Lucy. “Three inner monologues,” says Phillip. “Like several tracks playing at the same time,” says Sarah. This is how people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) describe what is going on in their heads at any given moment. With so many thoughts jostling for attention, it is a struggle to concentrate. Appointments fly by. Relationships founder. Feelings of inadequacy—alongside anxiety and depression—start to creep in.

This article appeared in the Science & technology section of the print edition under the headline “Coming into focus”

From the November 2nd 2024 edition

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