What is ADHD?
Inattention: wandering off task, lacking persistence, difficulty sustaining focus, disorganized; and these problems are not due to defiance or lack of comprehension.
Hyperactivity: moving about constantly, including in situations in which it is not appropriate; or excessively fidgets, taps, or talks. Significant to extreme restlessness or wearing others out with constant activity. Hasty actions that occur in the moment without first thinking about them and that may have high potential for harm; wanting immediate rewards or inability to delay gratification; being socially intrusive and excessively interrupting others or making important decisions without considering the long-term consequences.
Note: There are actually three forms of ADD/ADHD. For the purpose of this note we are combining Hyperactivity with Impulsivity.
ADHD FAQs
What are Symptoms of ADHD?
- Fidgety and Squirmy
- Leaving Seats When Staying Seated is Expected
- Often Feels Restless
- Unable to Engage in Hobbies Quietly
- The Need To Constantly Be in Motion
- Nonstop Talking
- Blurting Out Answers
- Interrupts or Intrudes On Others
What Causes ADHD?
- Genes
- Cigarette Smoking, Alcohol Use, or Drug Use During Pregnancy
- Exposure to Environmental Toxins (Especially High Lead Levels) at a Young Age
- Low Birth Weight
- Brain Injuries
Who is Affected by ADHD?
Males are almost three times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than females. More than 12 percent of men will be diagnosed while just under 5 percent of women will be diagnosed. The average age of ADHD diagnosis is 7 years old.
