What Is ADHD? Understanding the Brain Behind the Symptoms

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, organization, impulse control, and, for some people, hyperactivity.

In adults, ADHD often looks different than it does in childhood. Many adults struggle more with focus, time management, organization, impulsivity, and emotional regulation than with constant hyperactivity.

Not everyone with ADHD is hyperactive. There are three recognized presentations:

Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (formerly called ADD)
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation
Combined Presentation (both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms)

For first responders, ADHD can be especially challenging because they may thrive during high-pressure emergencies while finding routine tasks—such as paperwork, scheduling, or transitioning home after a shift—more difficult.

Symptoms vary from person to person and may include:

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

Especially on repetitive or detail-oriented tasks, despite knowing how to do them well.

A mind that is constantly active, making it difficult to relax or "switch off" after a shift.

Shifting from emergency response to paperwork or from work mode to home life.

Especially during conversations, meetings, paperwork, or routine tasks.

Appointments, deadlines, important details, or where items like keys, phone, or gear were placed.

Leading to procrastination or feeling overwhelmed by multiple responsibilities.

Interrupting others, speaking before thinking, or acting without considering the consequences.

Frustration, impatience, irritability, or feeling emotions more intensely than others.

Becoming so absorbed in a task that you lose track of time and overlook other responsibilities.

QUICK TIP: Learning about ADHD isn't about labeling yourself—it's about understanding your brain so you can use strategies that help you thrive.

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