Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. The symptoms of ADHD can be categorized into two main types: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. To receive a diagnosis of ADHD, an individual must exhibit a persistent pattern of these symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. Here are the common symptoms associated with each type:

Inattentive Symptoms:

1. Difficulty Sustaining Attention: Individuals with ADHD may have trouble staying focused on tasks, making careless mistakes, and frequently losing or forgetting things necessary for tasks and activities.

2. Difficulty Organizing Tasks: Organizing tasks and activities can be challenging, leading to poor time management, missed deadlines, and a tendency to procrastinate.

3. Avoiding or Disliking Tasks Requiring Sustained Mental Effort: Individuals with ADHD often avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as homework or paperwork.

4. Frequent Forgetfulness: Forgetfulness related to daily activities, appointments, and responsibilities is common.

5. Difficulty Paying Attention to Details: Missing details or making errors on assignments and tasks that require careful attention.

6. Inability to Listen Actively: Difficulty in listening and following through with instructions, often leading to misunderstandings and missed details.

7. Losing Items: Frequently misplacing personal items, like keys, wallets, phones, and school supplies.

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms:

1. Fidgeting and Restlessness: Individuals may be unable to sit still, frequently tapping their hands or feet, squirming in their seats, or getting up when expected to remain seated.

2. Inability to Stay Quiet: Often talking excessively or blurting out answers before a question is complete.

3. Difficulty Waiting Turn: Impatient behavior and difficulty waiting for one's turn in situations that require it.

4. Interrupting or Intruding: Intruding on others' conversations, games, or activities; not respecting personal boundaries.

5. Acting Impulsively: Making hasty decisions without thinking about the consequences, which may lead to accidents or other issues.

It's important to note that not everyone with ADHD will exhibit all these symptoms, and the severity and combination of symptoms can vary from person to person. A healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can diagnose ADHD and develop a treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs, which may include behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of both. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms and suspects they may have ADHD, it's important to seek a professional evaluation for a proper diagnosis and appropriate management.

Timothy specializes in ADHD including diagnosis and assessments, coping skills, therapy, and more. Make an appointment with Timothy now.