ADHD

While some behaviors associated with ADHD are normal, someone with ADHD will have trouble controlling these behaviors and will show them much more frequently and for longer than 6 months.

“Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition in which 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.

Signs of inattention include:

• 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 include:

• Fidgeting and squirming, having trouble sitting still.

• Non-stop talking.

• Touching or playing with everything.

• Difficulty doing quiet tasks or activities.

Signs of impulsivity include:

• Impatience.

• Acting without regard for consequences, blurting things out.

• Difficulty taking turns, waiting or sharing.

• Interrupting others.”

~from NAMI