ADHD

Discovery science

Our discovery science spans everything from cells to society. We are currently exploring how small differences in genes, brain structure and function, and thinking styles relate to ADHD. 

We use safe methods to look at how the brain develops.  Our largest study has been looking at about 1,000 children in South London mapping how connections between different brain regions change with age.  We are asking if there are any differences in these connections in those who go onto develop problems with attention.    

We use cutting-edge methods, like artificial intelligence (AI), to understand large, complex datasets that are too difficult to analyse using more traditional methods. 

One of our biggest breakthroughs was only possible when we used AI to see how ADHD changes over time. We created an AI model that predicted with over 80% accuracy whether a child with ADHD will still have the diagnosis when they reach adolescence.

We are now using these methods to help us predict the lifetime course of ADHD. We can also predict other mental health conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder.

This could transform how families and clinicians plan, helping them make more informed, personalised decisions about care and support at the right time.

Read more about our work in AI

Collaborative science

We’re redefining how ADHD is understood by working directly with young people. 

Our researchers are finding new ways to measure how ADHD affects daily life, especially in school.

We also explore how ADHD overlaps with other neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism. Seeing these connections helps create a more inclusive and accurate view of the varied experiences of neurodivergent young people.

One example of this is the Regulating Emotions – Strengthening Adolescent Resilience (RE-STAR) study.

Many neurodivergent young people, like those with ADHD or autism, can develop depression and anxiety in their teenage years.

We currently do not know:

·       which individuals are most at risk

·       what processes drive that risk

·       the most effective ways to intervene

The RE-STAR study looks at how ADHD and autism traits connect with environmental pressures and emotional wellbeing. The goal is to identify those who are most vulnerable and to find ways to boost resilience before depression sets in.

Treatment innovation

Years of research have shown us the brain networks that work differently in some people with ADHD. 

Our researchers are exploring brain stimulation therapies that focus on these networks directly. The approaches we study are all non-invasive and painless. 

We have looked at many different types of brain stimulation.  Some didn’t work.

Some other approaches are more promising.  One promising approach uses gentle, small electrical or magnetic fields that are applied to certain brain areas.  We think this approach may help with attention and self-control. We are also exploring how everyday technology can help young people with ADHD. 

Current projects include:

• Smart devices: Researchers are looking at how smartwatches and mobile phones can help young people monitor how treatments are affecting their attention and mood in real time.
• Sleep improvement: We are testing whether online resources to improve sleep in young people with ADHD can lead to meaningful improvements in their quality of life.