Attention/Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention/Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition including attention difficulty hyperactivity and impulsiveness. ADHD is one the most common neurodevelopment disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Symptoms of ADHD include inattention (not being able to key focus), hyperactivity (excess movement that is not fitting to the setting), and impulsivity (hasty acts that occur in the moment without thought).

ADHD is diagnosed as one of three types: hyperactive/impulsive type or combine type.

• ADHD, combined type. This, the most common type of ADHD, is characterized by impulsive and hyperactive behaviors as well as inattention and distractibility.
•  ADHD, impulsive/hyperactive type. This, the least common type of ADHD, is characterized by impulsive and hyperactive behaviors without inattention and distractibility.
•  ADHD, inattentive and distractible type. This type of ADHD is characterized predominately by inattention and distractibility without hyperactivity.

 The following are the most common symptoms of ADHD. However, each person may experience symptoms differently. The three categories of symptoms of ADHD include the following: 

  Inattention:

• Short attention span for age (difficulty sustaining attention)
• Difficulty listening to others
• Difficulty attending to details
• Easily distracted
• Forgetfulness
•  Poor organizational skills for age
• Poor study skills for age

 Impulsivity: 

• Often interrupts others
• Has difficulty waiting for his or her turn in school and/or social games
• Tends to blurt out answers instead of waiting to be called upon
• Takes frequent risks, and often without thinking before acting 

Hyperactivity:

• Seems to be in constant motion; runs or climbs, at times with no apparent goal except motion
• Has difficulty remaining in his/her seat even when it is expected
• Fidgets with hands or squirms when in his or her seat; fidgeting excessively
• Talks excessively
• Has difficulty engaging in quiet activities
• Loses or forgets things repeatedly and often
• Inability to stay on task; shifts from one task to another without bringing any to completion

 Treatments range from behavioral intervention to prescription medication.