Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD, also known as ADD) is a developmental disorder that presents during childhood, in most cases before the age of seven, and is characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention and/or hyperactive-impulsive behavior. In order to be diagnosed, the condition must also result in significant impairment of one or more major life activities, including interpersonal relations, educational or occupational goals, as well as cognitive or adaptive functioning. ADHD may also be diagnosed in adulthood, but symptoms must have been present prior to age seven in order to yield a positive diagnosis.

The symptoms of ADHD fall into the following two broad categories:

Inattention:

• Failing to pay close attention to details or making careless mistakes when doing schoolwork or other activities
• Trouble keeping attention focused during play or tasks
• Appearing not to listen when spoken to
• Failing to follow instructions or finish tasks
• Avoiding tasks that require a high amount of mental effort and organization, such as school projects
• Frequently losing items required to facilitate tasks or activities, such as school supplies
• Excessive distractibility
• Forgetfulness

Hyperactivity-impulsive behavior:

• Fidgeting with hands or feet or squirming in seat
• Leaving seat often, even when inappropriate
• Running or climbing at inappropriate times
• Difficulty in quiet play
• Frequently feeling restless
• Excessive speech
• Answering a question before the speaker has finished
• Failing to await one's turn
• Interrupting the activities of others at inappropriate times

A positive diagnosis is usually only made if the patient presents with at least six of the above symptoms. In addition, a positive diagnosis is made if six or more of these symptoms presented before the age of seven; the symptoms usually begin to appear between the ages of four and six. Symptoms must appear consistently in varied environments. (e.g., At home, school, and in public.)

Children who grow up with ADHD often continue to have symptoms as they grow into adulthood. Adults face some of their greatest challenges in the areas of self-control and self-motivation, as well as executive functioning (also known as working memory). If the patient is not treated appropriately, co-morbid conditions, such as depression and anxiety may present as well. If a patient presents with such conditions as well, the co-morbid condition is usually treated first.