Overview of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Symptoms

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurobiological disorder. ADHD is most commonly found in children and causes a chronic inability to pay attention an also causes chronic hyperactivity in children. This disorder can also cause social and self-esteem problems. ADHD usually surfaces around the age of 7 and can continue into and through adulthood.

ADHD is estimated to affect 3-5% of the school population. The exact cause of ADHD is unidentified but it is widely accepted that the disorder is neurobiologically based. Scientific data suggests that ADHD is passed-down genetically, and in many cases, a direct result of a chemical imbalance or shortage in specific neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that help normalize the Brain’s functions.

The Inattention Symptoms of ADHD

A person with ADHD might do any or all of these things that display a lack of attention chronically for more than six consecutive months:

• Loses things
• Seems not to listen
• Has difficulty keeping attention on something
• Avoids tasks requiring focus for any sustained amount of time
• Gets easily distracted
• Is very un-organized
• Has problems following instructions
• Is forgetful in the short-term
• Makes careless mistakes

The Hyper-Active Symptoms of ADHD

A person with ADHD might do any or all of these things that display Hyperactivity, chronically for more than six consecutive months:

• Interrupts without noticing
• Talks too much
• Can’t stay still or fidgets
• Has problems with doing activities quietly
• Difficulty waiting in line or taking turns
• Very impatient
• Runs around or climbs excessively

Some believe that these symptoms are natural for all children. To an extent they are correct with one major exception; Children with ADHD don’t show these symptoms occasionally, it is a part of their everyday life.

Adult ADHD

Although ADHD is usually thought of as a children’s disorder, many adults have it too. While adults are able to handle ADHD better than children, ADHD can still have a large impact on an adult’s life. Not being able to pay attention can affect adults in the workplace. Again, it is important to remember that this isn’t just an excuse for a lazy person that drifts off without a care. Adults with ADHD can be very dedicated to their job and take it very seriously and still find themselves in a meeting and not know what the topic of the meeting is. It can also affect a marriage because the spouse with ADHD can frequently appear to intentionally ignore his or her spouse.

Summary

ADHD is a real disorder with different types and severities. It can affect people at any age. It is important to understand ADHD as best as one can when dealing with it. It is very possible to overcome ADHD and to live just as happy as a person without it.

Author: Kurt Robinson