What Is the Impact of Neonatal Brain Injury on Brain Structure and Function in ADHD?

PostedAugust 18, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Neonatal brain injury can lead to significant brain changes ADHD, affecting brain structure and function in ways that contribute to the development of ADHD. When an infant experiences a brain injury during the neonatal period, such as a lack of oxygen or trauma at birth, it can cause long-lasting effects on the brain’s development. These brain changes ADHD can result in cognitive issues, particularly in areas responsible for executive function, attention, and impulse control.

Brain scans ADHD often reveal structural abnormalities in the brains of children who have experienced neonatal brain injury. These changes can occur in regions like the prefrontal cortex, which is essential for decision-making, emotional regulation, and attention. Damage to these areas may lead to difficulties with ADHD behaviour, such as trouble concentrating, managing emotions, or staying organised. The resulting brain changes ADHD can significantly impact a child’s ability to succeed academically and socially.

Common Symptoms of ADHD Linked to Neonatal Brain Injury

Children who suffer neonatal brain injury may display symptoms typically associated with ADHD. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

Inattention

Children with ADHD often struggle to focus on tasks for extended periods. They may frequently forget instructions, become easily distracted by external stimuli, or have difficulty completing assignments.

Impulsivity

Impulsivity in children with ADHD can manifest as interrupting others during conversations, making snap decisions without considering the consequences, or struggling to wait their turn in group settings.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Brain Structure and Function.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.