Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition in which a person has trouble paying attention and focusing on tasks, tends to act without thinking and has trouble sitting still. It may begin in early childhood and can continue into adulthood. Without treatment, ADHD can cause problems at home, school, work and with relationships. In the past, ADHD was called attention deficit disorder (ADD).
ADHD Symptoms
The three types of ADHD symptoms include:
- Trouble paying attention. People with ADHD are easily distracted and have a hard time focusing on any one task.
- Trouble sitting still for even a short time. This is called hyperactivity. Children with ADHD may squirm, fidget, or run around at inappropriate times. Teens and adults often feel restless and fidgety and are not able to enjoy reading or other quiet activities.
- Acting before thinking. People with ADHD may talk too loud, laugh too loud or become angrier than necessary in certain situations. Children may not be able to wait for their turn or to share. This makes it hard for them to play with other children. Teens and adults seem to "leap before they look." They may make quick decisions that have a long-term impact on their lives. They may spend too much money or change jobs often.
Diagnosis
ADHD is diagnosed through a thorough clinical interview by a psychiatrist or in some cases with formal neuropsychological testing to assess a person’s thinking abilities.
Screening questionnaires such as the Adult ADHD Self Report Scale (ASRS-V1.1) are used. In addition, patient reports from family, colleagues and employers are often employed to get a sense of the impact ADHD has on others. Take the ASRS-V1.1 »
ADHD Treatment Options
There is no cure for ADHD, but ADHD treatment may help control the symptoms. Treatment may include medicines and behavior therapy. Therapy focuses on making changes in the environment to improve the child’s behavior.
For More Information
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 847.425.6400.