What Are the Signs of ADHD?
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The presence of symptoms in the early years (before the age of 12) that cause problems in multiple settings, such as at school, home or at work, is a requirement for an ADHD diagnosis. Symptoms also must be ongoing.
1. Inattentiveness
ADHD is characterized by inattention and difficulty focusing on tasks or activities. These symptoms can include difficulties at work or school like forgetting important particulars, missing appointments or misplacing documents, and issues with daily life such as not being able to make phone calls or pay bills. Inattentional ADHD can also show up in relationships. Some people may have trouble comprehending what others are saying or be confused about certain issues.
Inattention ADHD symptoms usually start in childhood but can persist throughout adolescence and into adulthood. To be diagnosed, a person must exhibit at least six symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity. The symptoms must last at least six months and have a negative impact on the individual's life.
Although people with inattention ADHD might be able to overcome their issues at home or with their friends but they are often in difficulties at work or with their relationships. They may miss out on advancement opportunities or lose their jobs if fail to finish their work on time. They may find it hard to keep up with their loved ones and can get into heated arguments if they don't know what the other person is saying.
Being diagnosed with inattentive ADHD can assist someone in getting the help they require. Speak to a healthcare professional such as their primary care physician or a mental health professional, can assist them in learning to manage their symptoms. They can also request a referral to see a specialist who is trained in diagnosing mental disorders, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.
2. Hyperactivity
Children who are hyperactive have trouble sitting still or controlling their behavior. They can't stay still, they bounce off furniture and climb up places they shouldn't. They aren't able play by themselves either. They have a difficult time making friends and focusing on their studies. They are often asked questions after others have finished or interrupt a conversation. They might be unable to hold their breath for certain things, like food or video games, or take over others' toys or games. They might also become restless or antsy in class at work, or when they're on vacation.
Children who are hyperactive or impulsive and exhibit behavior problems in school are frequently diagnosed with ADHD but the signs might not be evident. ADHD is often identified in children who are hyperactive or impulsive and behave inappropriately at school. However it's not always apparent. They could be mistaken for defiant or not listening to their parents.
A health care provider who has experience diagnosing ADHD and with a particularization in mental illness will evaluate your child's symptom to determine if they meet American Psychiatric Association criteria for ADHD. The health professional will talk to your child, you and teachers and evaluate your child's current and past behavior and school experiences. They may also look for other reasons for the symptoms, like depression or a sleep disorder.
Many children suffering from ADHD can control their symptoms up until they reach elementary school. When they are given more tasks and responsibilities they can't keep up and are in a state of confusion and are unable to remain calm. They also may experience problems at home.
3. Impulsivity
The tendency to be impulsive is a characteristic of ADHD that makes it difficult for those suffering from this disorder to control their behavior or thoughts. People who are impulsive are more likely to make decisions quickly and without considering the consequences. They can also be addicted to things like shopping, eating, or using intoxicating substances. The tendency to be impulsive can affect relationships, particularly those with teenagers and children.
You can tell if you are impulsive by identifying its common characteristics. For example, do you frequently make statements that you aren't referring to or get annoyed by minor things such as waiting for buses or trains? Do you have trouble keeping track of things and lose important items (like school supplies, tools, wallets, keys, eyeglasses, phones, etc.)?
In some instances children, the impulsiveness and teens can differ from other signs of ADHD. They may have a harder time being still and paying attention, but they can still be distracted often, interrupt others, and act without thought. These are the children and teens who usually meet criteria for a diagnosis of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD.
There are a few easy strategies that you can use to control your impulses. Matlen suggests practicing mindfulness to become more aware of the thoughts, emotions and impulses that you feel, as well as your physical feelings when you are about to be impulsive. She suggests taking note of the triggers that cause your impulsive behavior and then developing a plan for how to handle them in the future. She also suggests using relaxation methods like listening to soothing music and deep breathing throughout the day.
4. It is difficult to concentrate
People with ADHD may have difficulty focusing, even in situations familiar to them. For example, they might get distracted while working on their homework, or they may have trouble staying focused in class, at work or during conversations. They might miss important appointments, or forget to take their medication. This could result in low performance at work, relationship issues and financial problems.
More Bonuses suffering from ADHD do not always exhibit hyperactivity or impulsivity. They might have difficulty focusing on their work or meetings, but they do not always get into trouble and jump on others, or act in a way that doesn't think first. They may feel frustrated because they can't manage their behavior or finish their work on time. This could lead to anxiety, stress and strain within their relationships.
If you or a family member has symptoms of ADHD and you suspect that they are suffering from ADHD, you should speak with your doctor. Your doctor will likely conduct an extensive examination, including a hearing and vision test, to make sure that nothing else is the cause. They will inquire about your health history and your child's. They will likely require you to fill out a checklist of symptoms.
Untreated ADHD symptoms can cause serious issues. But treatment can make a big difference. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, a combination of cognitive behavioral treatment and prescription medications is the most efficient. The stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin can help by boosting the brain chemical responsible for paying attention. Non-stimulants like Clonidine or Intuniv can also help improve focus however they take a longer time to start working. Discuss with your doctor the right medication for you.
5. Emotional problems
As children grow, many ADHD symptoms may change or disappear. However, it's crucial to keep an in mind the most common signs of ADHD in adults:
People suffering from ADHD often struggle to comprehend how they feel and what their emotions translate to. They also may have trouble managing their emotions and behaviors, leading to problems with relationships and school or work performance. This could include excessive fidgeting, rushing to answer questions before they've finished, and stepping out of their seats when it is expected to remain sitting. It could also mean not being able or unwilling to sit in class or at a doctor's appointment, or having difficulty participating in leisure activities in a calm manner.
It's important that a person suffering from emotional issues sees their doctor. They can seek support from a psychologist or psychiatrist or try cognitive behavioral therapy, or take stimulants or other medications to treat their symptoms.
Someone must have had these symptoms since childhood, and they must be affecting their daily lives at home and school. Someone with ADHD may forget about important deadlines or dates and have trouble planning the future. They could be at risk of hyperfocus. This means they get so caught up in the task that they do not pay attention to the people around them. This can cause issues with relationships. Additionally, they could easily be distracted by other tasks or activities and can lose track of time. They are also more likely to take decision-making decisions impulsively without considering the consequences, which can cause legal or financial difficulties.