ADHD

ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in young people, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). An estimated 9% of children between ages 3–17 have ADHD. While ADHD is usually diagnosed in childhood, it does not only affect children. An estimated 4% of adults have ADHD.

Symptoms

While some behaviors associated with ADHD are normal, someone with ADHD will have trouble controlling these behaviors and will show them much more frequently.

Signs of inattention:

• Becoming easily distracted and jumping from activity to activity

• Becoming bored with a task quickly

• Difficulty focusing attention or completing a single task or activity

• Trouble completing or turning in homework assignments

• Losing things such as school supplies or toys

• Not listening or paying attention when spoken to

• Daydreaming or wandering with lack of motivation

• Difficulty processing information quickly

• Struggling to follow directions

Signs of hyperactivity:

• Fidgeting and squirming, having trouble sitting still