ADHD is an acronym for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a condition characterized by poor attention span and a predisposition toward hyperactivity. However, while ADHD is classified as being a condition that is neurological in origin, it’s important to recognize that it is not a form of mental illness or genetic defect. In fact, the term is intended to merely describe a certain set of behaviors, not a progressive or degenerative neurological disease. In addition, ADHD, formerly known simply as ADD, may or may not actually involve hyperactivity in conjunction with limited attention span.
Unfortunately, there is no blood test or imaging scan that can determine an accurate diagnosis of ADHD. So, physicians and educators are left to make an evaluation based on the demonstration of certain symptoms of ADHD. These generally include difficulty staying on task, being easily distracted, displaying forgetfulness, and exhibiting compulsive behavior. The first symptoms of ADHD typically appear in children before the age of seven. However, since so many cases go undetected due to a lack of professional observation, a diagnosis may not be made until the child has reached grade school.
In order to reach a confirmed diagnosis, the patient must display six or more symptoms of ADHD associated with the three subcategories of ADHD as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR), which are:
Predominantly inattentive
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
Combined inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive
In addition, these symptoms must remain consistent for at least six months and significantly impact performance at both home and school.
The following are some common symptoms of ADHD in both children and adults pursuant to the DSM-IV-TR:
Inattentive Type ADHD in Children:
Overall poor concentration
Forgetfulness
Trouble paying attention to details, often resulting in careless mistakes while completing homework
Loses objects with frequency
Difficulty taking verbal direction
Lacks organization skills
Easily distracted
Avoidance of any project requiring fixed concentration for long periodsHyperactive-impulsive Type ADHD in Children:Incessant talking, including interrupting others
Difficulty sitting still or participating in a quiet activity
Interferes with others’ conversations or activities
Shows a high level of restlessness (i.e., fidgeting with hands or feet, pencil tapping, etc.)
Frequently leaves their seat during class
Difficulty waiting their turn or standing in lineADHD in Adults: History of ADHD symptoms in childhood
Difficulty concentrating
Hyperactivity
Impulsiveness
Short-tempered
Mood swings
Difficulty completing tasks
Difficulty coping with stress