What is ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
ADHD is not just about occasional inattention or hyperactivity; it involves a chronic level of these behaviors that is higher than typical for a person's age and development.
ADHD symptoms can significantly impair various aspects of life, including academic performance, occupational functioning, and social interactions.
The DSM-5 catagorizes ADHD into three primary types based on the predominant symptoms observed.
01
Inattentive Type (ADHD-I)
This type is for those who have a black belt in daydreaming and zoning out.
You’re the one who thinks To Do lists are just optional suggestions.
Key Symptoms
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Lack of attention to detail
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Struggles to follow instructions.
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Easily distracted
02
Hyperactive-Impulsive Type (ADHD-H)
This type is the life of the party because they can’t sit still.
(Imagine a toddler who just chugged an espresso.)
Key Symptoms
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Fidgeting and squirming
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Blurting out answers before questions are even finished
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Interrupting others in conversations
03
Combined Type (ADHD-C)
This type combines inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms together.
Why have just one flavor of chaos when you can have the whole buffet?
Key Symptoms
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Forgetting or misplacing your keys, wallet, phone, etc.
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Starting 17 different projects and finishing none because new ideas keep popping into your head.
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Losing track of conversations mid-sentence because your brain just switched channels.
People experiencing any of the three types of ADHD often find it challenging to:
manage time effectively
stay organized
control impulsive behaviors
avoid interrupting others
handle stress
finish reading assignments
stick to routines
regulate emotions
avoid distractions
avoid procrastination
These difficulties could also be due to other mental health issues such as:
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anxiety
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depression
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sleep disturbances
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learning disabilities
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autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
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nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD)
ADHD symptoms present differently for everyone with no two people sharing the exact same symptoms, making it difficult to feel confident that you've received the right diagnosis. With proper ADHD testing, you can uncover whether you or your child have ADHD, another mental health condition, or a combination of diagnoses.
If you suspect that you or your child has ADHD and you’re seeking an explanation for your symptoms, it may be time to register for testing.
Undiagnosed ADHD Can Impact Every Aspect of Your Life
Adults with ADHD may struggle to form strong friendships and romantic relationships, maintain steady employment, manage household chores, or stay committed to hobbies and long-term projects. Children with ADHD might find it difficult to keep their grades up or follow classroom rules, often leading to disciplinary issues.
If you or your child is experiencing these challenges, it might be time to seek answers. ADHD testing can help identify the root of your symptoms, provide a formal diagnosis if appropriate, consider alternative explanations, and guide you towards effective treatment options.
Have You Noticed
ADHD Symptoms In
Yourself Or
Your Child?
Maybe your friends and family have expressed concerns about your forgetfulness or lateness, or your manager has gotten frustrated because you’re frequently distracted during important meetings. Or perhaps you’ve noticed that your child struggles to complete their homework, start tasks independently, sit quietly during class, or wait their turn during activities.
While these symptoms do not always mean that an adult or child has ADHD, they can be warning signs.