Symptoms of ADHD
There are three types of ADHD: Inattentive, Hyperactive-Impulsive, and Combined.
Symptoms of ADHD – Inattentive Type (formerly known as ADD)
Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities
Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) or failure to understand instructions)
Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)
Loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., keys, driver’s license, toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools)
Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
Forgetful in daily activities
Symptoms of ADHD – Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
Leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected
Runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate (may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness in adults)
Has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
Appears “on the go” or acts as if “driven by a motor”
Talks excessively
Blurts out the answers before the questions have been completed
Has difficulty awaiting turn
Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)