ATTENTION DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD) TREATMENT

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Symptoms can vary among individuals and often fall into three main categories: Inattention, Hyperactivity, and Impulsivity.

Inattention Symptoms

These symptoms involve difficulty maintaining focus, organizing tasks, and following through on responsibilities.

• Difficulty Sustaining Attention – Struggling to stay focused on tasks, conversations, or activities, especially if they are repetitive or uninteresting.
• Easily Distracted – Losing focus due to external stimuli, such as noises, movement, or unrelated thoughts.
• Forgetfulness – Frequently forgetting appointments, deadlines, or daily tasks like paying bills or completing assignments.
• Disorganization – Struggling to plan, prioritize, and keep track of tasks, belongings, or responsibilities.
• Avoiding Tasks That Require Focus – Procrastinating or feeling overwhelmed by tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as reading or writing.
• Frequently Losing Items – Misplacing keys, phones, wallets, or other important objects due to absentmindedness.
• Difficulty Following Instructions – Struggling to remember, interpret, or complete multi-step directions.

Hyperactivity Symptoms

Hyperactivity involves excessive movement or restlessness, even in situations where stillness is expected.

• Fidgeting or Squirming – Constantly tapping hands, bouncing legs, or shifting in a seat.
• Inability to Stay Seated – Struggling to remain seated for extended periods, especially in structured environments like classrooms or meetings.
• Feeling Restless – Experiencing a persistent need to move, often described as feeling “on the go” or “driven by a motor.”
• Talking Excessively – Speaking rapidly or interrupting conversations due to difficulty regulating verbal output.
• Difficulty Engaging in Quiet Activities – Finding it challenging to participate in relaxing or quiet activities without feeling bored or restless.

Impulsivity Symptoms

Impulsivity affects decision-making and self-regulation, leading to actions without considering consequences.

• Interrupting Conversations – Speaking out of turn, finishing others’ sentences, or jumping into discussions without waiting.
• Difficulty Waiting for Turns – Struggling with patience in situations like waiting in lines or turn-based games.
• Acting Without Thinking – Making rash decisions without considering long-term outcomes, such as impulse shopping, risky driving, or quitting tasks suddenly.
• Blurting Out Answers – Answering questions before they are completed or speaking before thinking in conversations.
• Risk-Taking Behavior – Engaging in impulsive or risky activities (e.g., reckless spending, driving too fast, or taking unnecessary risks).

How ADHD Symptoms Affect Daily Life

These symptoms can impact work, school, relationships, and self-esteem, making it difficult for individuals to meet deadlines, maintain routines, and manage responsibilities. ADHD symptoms can also vary in severity, and treatment can help individuals develop coping strategies, structure, and focus for long-term success.