Young Irish women who have been diagnosed with ADHD are being asked to take part in a study, which will look at the impact the condition has had on their lives.

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition, the main symptoms of which include inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Those affected show poor concentration, are often unable to complete tasks, day dream a lot, are distracted easily, act without thinking and can suffer temper tantrums.

Hyperactive symptoms can include restlessness and not being able to remain seated, such as during meals. In adults, this can manifest itself through excessive talking and feelings of being overwhelmed.

In Ireland, an estimated 6,000-31,000 people aged between 15 and 24 are affected. However until now, studies have tended to focus on males with the condition. As a result, little is known about the specific needs of females in general, but especially in Ireland, where ADHD research has been sparse.

According to NUI Galway's School of Education, which is carrying out this research, it wants to better understand what life is like for young women in Ireland with ADHD.

Those who wish to participate must be aged between 14 and 20 and can come from anywhere in the country. They will be asked to give their opinions and provide insights into how ADHD affects their daily lives, their relationships with others and their academic performance.

All participants will complete one personal interview and one online questionnaire. Interviews will take place at a location of the participants' choosing, so no travelling will be involved.

"We do a lot of talking ‘about' people with ADHD, and yet, very little communication takes place with people affected by ADHD. This study represents an important chance for young women living with the condition to have their voices and opinions heard, and to help others understand what it is truly like to live as a young woman with ADHD in the Irish context," commented the project's primary researcher, Andrea Lynch.

Meanwhile, the study is also looking for the opinions of secondary school teachers who have worked with students with ADHD. They will be expected to complete one online questionnaire and will also be asked to consider a personal interview at a location of their choice.

"This study also represents a chance for teachers to reflect upon their experiences of teaching students with ADHD, and is an opportunity for them to express their opinions regarding the particular needs of second-level educators in supporting students with ADHD, and ways in which educational provision for students with this condition could be improved for this population," Ms Lynch said.

Anyone interested in participating in this study should contact Ms Lynch by email at a.lynch19@nuigalway.ie or by phone on 087 1129 868.