Wojciech Kreft
February 6, 2026
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It is estimated that in Poland attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects up to around one million people. Despite this, many individuals remain undiagnosed, and identifying ADHD—particularly in adults—continues to be challenging. Understanding what ADHD truly is and moving beyond common stereotypes is crucial for providing effective support to those who need a reliable diagnosis and appropriate forms of assistance that enable better everyday functioning.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent difficulties with attention and concentration, impulsivity, and excessive motor activity. Contemporary medical classifications, such as DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, describe ADHD as a disorder that significantly interferes with everyday functioning, including learning, professional work, and interpersonal relationships.
Importantly, ADHD has its onset in childhood, even if it is not always recognised at that stage. For many individuals, symptoms persist into adolescence and adulthood, although their intensity and the way they manifest may change over time.
What does it mean that ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder?
Describing ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder means that its underlying causes are related to the development and functioning of the nervous system, rather than being solely the result of emotional, educational, or environmental factors. Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of conditions that emerge early in development and affect how a person learns, regulates behaviour, and processes information.
In ADHD, key difficulties involve processes responsible for attention, impulse control, and self-regulation—often referred to as executive functions. Challenges in these areas are not the result of a lack of effort, motivation, or consistent upbringing, but stem from a specific pattern of brain development. For this reason, ADHD should not be understood as an “emotional problem” or a consequence of poor parenting, but as a developmental condition that can influence the functioning of both children and adults at different stages of life.
Diagnostic criteria for ADHD – what is the diagnosis based on?
The diagnosis of ADHD is based on structured diagnostic criteria described in the DSM-5-TR and ICD-11 classifications. These criteria define patterns of difficulties that may indicate the presence of the disorder. Importantly, they focus not on isolated behaviours, but on a persistent style of functioning that differs from developmental expectations for a given age.
Medical classifications identify three main domains of symptoms. The first involves inattention, including difficulties with concentration, sustaining focus, and organising tasks. The second domain is impulsivity, understood as difficulty inhibiting responses and controlling spontaneous actions. The third domain concerns hyperactivity, which exceeds the typical level of movement or activity expected for a person’s age.
To meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD, these difficulties must also fulfil specific temporal and contextual conditions. This means they appear early in development, persist over time, and are observed in more than one area of life. Such an approach allows clinicians to distinguish ADHD from temporary difficulties, reactions to emotional stress, or problems arising solely from specific life circumstances.
New technologies in ADHD therapy
Modern technologies can provide valuable support in therapeutic work with individuals with ADHD. Virtual reality (VR) can help reduce certain external stimuli, making it easier to maintain focus and concentration on a task. At the same time, VR environments are often highly engaging and motivating, particularly for younger participants in therapy.
It is important to emphasise, however, that VR is not a stand-alone therapeutic method. It is a supportive tool that should be used responsibly and exclusively by trained professionals—for example, those who have completed specialised training such as the VR Therapist course.
Summary
In summary, ADHD is a clearly defined neurodevelopmental disorder, and its diagnosis is based on precise medical criteria rather than everyday judgments or stereotypes. Understanding its nature, developmental origins, and diagnostic principles is a necessary foundation for further discussion about support, education, and therapy. Only on this basis is it possible to use available forms of assistance in an informed and responsible way, including modern technological tools that can complement the work of specialists and support individuals with ADHD at different stages of life.
FAQ – frequently asked questions about ADHD
Is ADHD a disease?
No. ADHD is not a disease in the sense of an infection or a condition that can be “cured.” It is a neurodevelopmental disorder described in international medical classifications such as DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, related to the way the nervous system develops and functions.
Is ADHD a mental disorder?
ADHD is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder, not an emotional disorder. This means its underlying causes are linked to brain development and the regulation of attention and impulses, rather than solely to emotional states or life experiences.
Does ADHD begin in childhood?
Yes. According to diagnostic criteria, ADHD begins in childhood, even if it is not always identified at that time. In some individuals, symptoms persist into adolescence and adulthood.
Does ADHD only affect children?
No. Although ADHD begins in childhood, it can also affect adolescents and adults. Over time, its presentation and intensity may change, but the difficulties do not necessarily disappear completely.
On what basis is ADHD diagnosed?
The diagnosis of ADHD is based on clearly defined criteria included in DSM-5-TR and ICD-11. These criteria take into account the persistence of difficulties, their early onset, and their presence in more than one area of life—not isolated behaviours or subjective impressions.
Is ADHD caused by poor parenting or lack of motivation?
No. ADHD is not the result of inadequate upbringing, lack of effort, or low motivation. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder related to the functioning of processes responsible for attention, self-regulation, and impulse control.
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