Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition in which characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in young people, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). An estimated 9% of children between ages 3–17 have ADHD. While ADHD is usually diagnosed in childhood, it does not only affect children. An estimated 4% of adults have ADHD.

With treatment, most people with ADHD can be successful in school, work and lead productive lives. Researchers are using new tools such as brain imaging to better understand the condition and to find more effective ways to treat and prevent ADHD.

Symptoms

While some behaviors associated with ADHD are normal, someone with ADHD will have trouble controlling these behaviors and will show them much more frequently and for longer than 6 months.

Signs of inattention include:

• Becoming easily distracted, and jumping from activity to activity.
• Becoming bored with a task quickly.
• Difficulty focusing attention or completing a single task or activity.
• Trouble completing or turning in homework assignments.
• Losing things such as school supplies or toys.
• Not listening or paying attention when spoken to.
• Daydreaming or wandering with lack of motivation.
• Difficulty processing information quickly.
• Struggling to follow directions.

Signs of hyperactivity include:

• Fidgeting and squirming, having trouble sitting still.
• Non-stop talking.
• Touching or playing with everything.
• Difficulty doing quiet tasks or activities.

Signs of impulsivity include:

• Impatience.
• Acting without regard for consequences, blurting things out.
• Difficulty taking turns, waiting or sharing.
• Interrupting others.

Additional Information

NAMI's website is the reference for information on this page. For more information about ADHD, including diagnosis, treatment and support resources, visit the NAMI website at www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-Conditions/ADHD.

If you or a family member is experiencing a mental health or an alcohol or other drug-related emergency, seek immediate assistance by calling the 24-hour Suicide Prevention, Mental Health/Addiction Crisis, Information and Referral Hotline: (216) 623-6888 or United Way 2-1-1. You can also text '4hope' to 741-741.