Recognizing the Signs and Effects of AD/HD

Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) is a common behavioral condition that makes it difficult for people to control their impulsive responses. People with AD/HD may seem to act without thinking, be hyperactive and have trouble sitting still, focusing and paying attention. They are easily distracted and find it difficult to stay on task when they find something more interesting. Although most of us can drop concentration for a brief period to absorb other things, AD/HD makes it difficult to return to the primary task and it often gets forgotten.

AD/HD is a disorder of variability: the symptoms may appear in different manners and forms at different times. A child with AD/HD may seem to behave as two different children: behaving perfectly in one setting, while in another setting they are unable to achieve self-control. They often find it difficult to obey rules and regulations, preferring their own spontaneous policies. AD/HD dilutes the internal system of personal motivation. While most of us have an inner voice reminding us of our tasks and goals, children with AD/HD often need an external point system of praise, reward and consequence.

Of course, all children (especially younger ones) sometimes act this way, particularly when they're eager or excited. But the difference is that with AD/HD the symptoms occur in a persistent pattern over a longer period of time and in different settings. They appear before the child is seven years old and for at least six months. They impair a child's ability to function with their friends, at school or at home. These symptoms are not exclusively due to another condition that the child may have. With proper treatment, children with AD/HD can learn to successfully manage their symptoms.

AD/HD has had a few different names, which can sometimes be confusing. It was previously known as ADD: Attention Deficit Disorder without Hyperactivity, and ADHD: Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity. In 1994 it was renamed by the American Psychiatric Association to AD/HD and divided into three subtypes.

1. Predominantly Inattentive Type : displaying at least six symptoms of inattention
2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type : displaying at least six symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity
3. Combined Inattentive Hyperactive-Impulsive : displaying at least six symptoms of inattention, and at least six symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity.

1. Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
2. Trouble keeping attention to tasks that are not interesting.
3. Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
4. Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or tasks.
5. Has trouble organizing activities.
6. Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
7. Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).
8. Is often easily distracted.
9. Is often forgetful in daily activities.

1. Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.
2. Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.
3. Often runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).
4. Often has trouble playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly.
5. Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor".
6. Often talks excessively.
7. Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.
8. Often has trouble waiting one's turn.
9. Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).