Signs and Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, patients can experience ADHD symptoms very differently, however, a significant life change often causes the display of early ADHD symptoms. For instance, while children often begin showing signs of ADHD when they start school, adults can show similar issues with focus and impulse control if they experience a major life change, such as the death of a loved one.
Regardless of age, ADHD occurs in 3 subtypes, according to the American Psychiatric Association:
Hyperactive-impulsive
The predominantly hyperactive-impulsive subset often fits the societal stereotype of wild, uncontrolled ADHD. However, this disorder subtype only makes up 5-percent of all ADHD patients, most of which are preschool children. Patients that fall under this subset must show a minimum 6 of the following signs for a duration of at least 6-months:
- Seemingly loud and untameable.
- Can’t sit still for short periods of time, prone to fidgeting and squirming.
- Prone to wild, inappropriate behavior (i.e., touching, running, climbing).
- Unable to play quietly.
- Talks loudly…and a lot!
- Interruptive and intrusive to others.
- Difficulty waiting for his or her turn.
- Energizer bunny! Never stops!
Inattentive
This ADHD subtype is often mischaracterized as a daydreamer. Predominantly inattentive ADHD patients are diagnosed after displaying at least 6 of the following symptoms for a period of more than six months:
- Often careless with or prone to losing personal belongings.
- Inability to retain details (i.e., times, directions).
- Trouble focusing for long periods of time.
- Can’t stay organized.
- Prone to daydreaming, or listening when spoken to.
- Difficulty completing tasks and chores at hand.
- Lack of follow through when given a task with directions.
- Often seems bored or avoidant of mentally-demanding activities.
- Distracted…a lot!
Hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive
The hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive subset are patients who experience multiple symptoms from both the inattentive and the Hyperactive-impulsive categories. Again, symptoms must present for at least 6-months to make a formal diagnosis. This child or adult may be:
- Fidget and squirm when asked to sit still for short periods of time.
- Easily distracted (inattention).
- Have trouble focusing on a single task.
- Seem loud and obnoxious.
- Prone to impulsive and inappropriate behavior.
- Avoidant of quiet, isolated activities.
- Display mood swings or be unable to control anger.
- Behave impulsively.
- At risk of substance abuse and addictive behaviors.
