Get DirectionsADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder -- also referred to as ADD or ADHD -- is a biological, brain based condition that is characterized by poor attention and distractibility and/or hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. It is one of the most common mental disorders that develop in children. It is estimated that between 3 and 5 percent of preschool and school age children have ADHD or approximately two million children in the United States. Symptoms may continue into adolescence and adulthood. If left untreated, ADHD can lead to poor school/work performance, poor social relationships and a general feeling of low self esteem.
Those with the predominantly inattentive type often:
- fail to pay close attention to details or make careless mistakes
- have difficulty sustaining attention to tasks or leisure activities
- do not seem to listen when spoken to directly
- do not follow through on instructions and fail to finish projects
- have difficulty organizing tasks and activities
- avoid, dislike, or are reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort
- lose things necessary for tasks or activities
- are easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
- are forgetful in daily activities
Those with the predominantly hyperactive/impulsive type often:
- fidget with their hands or feet or squirm in their seat
- leave their seat in situations in which remaining seated is expected
- move excessively or feel restless during situations in which such behavior is inappropriate
- have difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly
- are "on the go" or act as if "driven by a motor"
- talk excessively
- blurt out answers before questions have been completed
- have difficulty awaiting their turn
- interrupt or intrude on others