Mumbai | Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly known as ADHD, is a mental health disorder that often goes unnoticed or misunderstood. While it is predominantly observed in children and teenagers, many adults silently suffer from it too. The symptoms vary from person to person, and because they often appear “normal,” they are commonly ignored or misjudged.
People living with ADHD regularly face challenges in focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These symptoms—though they may seem subtle or commonplace—can deeply affect a person’s ability to function, perform, and grow in their personal and professional lives. When someone with ADHD tries to concentrate, their brain often interferes, making them restless, distracted by multiple unrelated things, or mentally frozen.
Society frequently labels these individuals as “slow” or “lazy,” ignoring the underlying condition they might be battling. Even worse, some perceive it as a kind of “illness,” which can make the person feel insecure and isolated. Due to the lack of awareness, many who live with ADHD assume their struggles are just part of who they are, unaware that there’s a name—and treatment—for what they experience.
Though ADHD’s severity varies, when left untreated, it can escalate and seriously impact daily life. Those affected may deal with poor time management, forgetfulness, overthinking, insomnia, emotional instability, and impulsive behavior. These symptoms are not just habits—they are signs of a neurodevelopmental disorder that needs attention and understanding.
Take, for example, Kriti, an office worker who finds it difficult to focus. She often distracts herself with TV series, chatting with coworkers, or drifting into overthinking. While this may seem like a regular workday behavior, for Kriti, this happens every time she tries to concentrate on her tasks. As a result, she falls behind her peers, arrives late to work, and often ends up staying overtime despite having a light workload. At home, she’s exhausted yet unable to sleep, her mind consumed with restless thoughts. If only Kriti had understood her situation and sought help from a specialist, perhaps her life would have looked very different.
ADHD does not appear overnight. It often starts with mild symptoms and can intensify over time if ignored. Early awareness and intervention can make a significant difference. It’s essential to consult a specialist if these signs persist in day-to-day life. What may seem manageable now can grow into a serious struggle later.
While mild ADHD can often be managed with meditation, yoga, exercise, and quality time with loved ones, more severe or developing cases require professional support and therapy.
Maybe the next Kriti is you, your friend, or someone close to you. Will YOU break free from this cycle of silent struggles?
Mumbai (Lamayka Sequeira
lamayka.feedback@gmail.com)