Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a group of behaviors. It used to also be called attention deficit disorder (ADD). ADHD is common in children and adults. People who have ADHD have trouble paying attention in school, at home, or at work. Even when they try to concentrate, they find it hard to pay attention. Children who have ADHD may be more active or impulsive than what is typical for their age. These behaviors cause problems in friendships, learning, and behavior. For this reason, children who have ADHD are sometimes seen as being “difficult” or as having behavior problems.
Most of what we hear about ADHD is how it affects children. Not as much is known about the way ADHD affects adults. Adults who have ADHD often are diagnosed when they find out their children have ADHD. For adults to be diagnosed, they must have developed symptoms prior to age 12. ADHD may run in families. Hyperactivity is more common in boys. However, other symptoms (especially inattention) are more common in girls.
Some people who have ADHD may have other conditions as well. These could include learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), bipolar disorder, and Tourette syndrome.
People who have ADHD have difficulty organizing things, listening to instructions, remembering details, and/or controlling their behavior. This can make it difficult to get along with other people at home, at school, or at work.
A person with ADHD who has difficulty paying attention will have 6 or more of the following symptoms:
- Has difficulty following instructions.
- Has difficulty keeping attention on work or play activities at school, work, and home.
- Loses things needed for activities at school, work, and home.
- Appears not to listen.
- Doesn’t pay close attention to details.
- Seems disorganized.
- Has trouble with tasks that require planning ahead.
- Forgets things.
- Is easily distracted.
A person with ADHD who is hyperactive or impulsive will have at least 6 of the following symptoms:
- Fidgety.
- Runs or climbs inappropriately.
- Can’t play quietly.
- Blurts out answers.
- Interrupts people.
- Can’t stay in seat.
- Talks too much.
- Is always on the go.
- Has trouble waiting his or her turn.
People who have ADHD do not make enough chemicals in certain areas in the brain that are important for organizing thoughts. Without enough of these chemicals, the organizing centers of the brain don’t work well. This is thought to be the cause of ADHD. The shortage of chemicals may be due to a person’s genes (research shows that ADHD is more common in people who have a close family member with the disorder), environment, or physical development. Recent research also links smoking and other substance during pregnancy to ADHD. Exposure to environmental toxins, such as lead, can also be a factor.
A doctor will be better able to diagnose ADHD when getting information about your child’s behavior. It may take information from several people who know your child (teachers, daycare providers). Your doctor also may have forms or checklists that you and your child’s teacher can complete. This will help you and your doctor compare your child’s behavior with other children’s behavior.
Unfortunately, many people try to diagnose themselves by using a quiz or a checklist they find in a magazine or see on TV. However, it’s best to see your doctor.
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