Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.
ADHD is one of the most common childhood disorders, affecting an estimated 8.4% of children and adolescents in the United States. It is more common in boys than girls, with a ratio of about 2:1. ADHD can persist into adulthood, with an estimated 4.4% of adults in the United States meeting the criteria for the disorder.
ADHD is a complex disorder with a variety of symptoms. The core symptoms of ADHD include:
What Is ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
- Common in childhood
- Can persist into adulthood
- Affects both boys and girls
- Symptoms can vary
- Treatment options available
- Support and resources available
ADHD is a complex disorder, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, individuals with ADHD can live full and productive lives.
Inattention
Inattention is one of the core symptoms of ADHD. It is characterized by a persistent pattern of difficulty paying attention to tasks or activities.
- Difficulty paying attention to details
Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention to details or may make careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or during other activities.
- Difficulty sustaining attention
Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty sustaining attention on tasks or activities for a prolonged period of time. They may become easily distracted by sights, sounds, or other stimuli in their environment.
- Difficulty listening
Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty listening to instructions or conversations. They may appear to be daydreaming or not paying attention, even when they are looking directly at the person speaking to them.
- Difficulty following instructions
Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty following instructions or completing tasks. They may start tasks but not finish them, or they may make mistakes because they did not follow the instructions correctly.
Inattention can have a significant impact on a person's life. It can lead to difficulties in school, at work, and in relationships. Individuals with ADHD may also have difficulty managing their time and staying organized.
Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is another core symptom of ADHD. It is characterized by a persistent pattern of excessive movement or fidgeting.
- Fidgeting
Individuals with ADHD may fidget with their hands or feet, or they may squirm in their seats. They may also have difficulty sitting still for long periods of time.
- Talking excessively
Individuals with ADHD may talk excessively, even when it is not appropriate. They may interrupt others or talk over them.
- Running or climbing excessively
Individuals with ADHD may run or climb excessively, even in situations where it is dangerous or inappropriate. They may also have difficulty engaging in quiet activities.
- Difficulty waiting
Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty waiting their turn or waiting for things to happen. They may be impulsive and act without thinking.
Hyperactivity can be disruptive and embarrassing for individuals with ADHD. It can also lead to accidents and injuries. In addition, hyperactivity can make it difficult for individuals with ADHD to focus and learn.
Impulsivity
Impulsivity is the third core symptom of ADHD. It is characterized by a persistent pattern of acting without thinking or considering the consequences.
- Acting without thinking
Individuals with ADHD may act without thinking about the consequences of their actions. They may say or do things that they later regret.
- Difficulty waiting
Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty waiting their turn or waiting for things to happen. They may interrupt others or start tasks before they are finished.
- Taking risks
Individuals with ADHD may take risks that are dangerous or harmful. They may engage in reckless activities, such as driving too fast or engaging in dangerous sports, without considering the potential consequences.
- Difficulty controlling emotions
Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty controlling their emotions. They may have outbursts of anger or frustration, or they may say or do things that they later regret.
Impulsivity can lead to problems in all areas of a person's life. Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty in school, at work, and in relationships. They may also be at increased risk for accidents and injuries.
Common in childhood
ADHD is one of the most common childhood disorders, affecting an estimated 8.4% of children and adolescents in the United States. It is more common in boys than girls, with a ratio of about 2:1. ADHD can persist into adulthood, with an estimated 4.4% of adults in the United States meeting the criteria for the disorder.
The symptoms of ADHD can vary from child to child. Some children with ADHD may be primarily inattentive, while others may be primarily hyperactive-impulsive. Still others may have a combination of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
ADHD can have a significant impact on a child's life. Children with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention in school, completing their homework, and following instructions. They may also be more likely to get into trouble at school and at home. In addition, children with ADHD may have difficulty making friends and keeping them.
There is no cure for ADHD, but there are effective treatments available. Treatment for ADHD typically involves medication, behavioral therapy, and parent training. With proper treatment, children with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms and live full and productive lives.
If you are concerned that your child may have ADHD, talk to your child's doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in a child's life.
Can persist into adulthood
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically begins in childhood. However, the symptoms of ADHD can persist into adulthood in many cases.
- Continued inattention
Adults with ADHD may continue to have difficulty paying attention to tasks or activities. They may also be easily distracted and have difficulty sustaining their attention on tasks for a prolonged period of time.
- Continued hyperactivity and impulsivity
Adults with ADHD may continue to be hyperactive and impulsive. They may have difficulty sitting still, fidgeting, or talking excessively. They may also act without thinking or considering the consequences of their actions.
- Difficulty with executive functioning
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty with executive functioning skills, such as planning, organizing, and time management. They may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and impulses.
- Impact on daily life
ADHD can have a significant impact on a person's life, even in adulthood. Adults with ADHD may have difficulty in school, at work, and in relationships. They may also be at increased risk for accidents and injuries.
However, it is important to note that ADHD is a treatable disorder. With proper treatment, adults with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms and live full and productive lives.