ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a condition that affects both children and adults.
You may understand ADHD as a problem with focus, but the reality of living with ADHD is much more impactful than that. ADHD can cause problems in all areas of life, from work and school to relationships.
If you think you or someone you know may have ADHD, look out for the following signs:
In children:
-Frequently fidgets or squirms
-Has difficulty remaining seated
-Is easily distracted
-Has difficulty following instructions
-Blurts out answers before hearing the whole question
-Has trouble waiting their turn
-Often interrupts others
In adults:
-Has trouble focusing and following through on tasks
-Is easily and frequently distracted
-Makes careless mistakes
-Feels like they are constantly in motion
-Has difficulty sitting still
-Talks excessively
-Interrupts others often
-Often behaves impulsively
For children and adults, ADHD tends to affect executive functioning, meaning skills like planning, organization, and time management can be challenging. For example, an adult with ADHD may have trouble paying bills on time, or a child with ADHD may have trouble completing assignments.
As you can see, the signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults and children are similar, but they can manifest differently according to one's genetics, experiences, development, and environment. For this reason, it's helpful to recognize the varying signs of ADHD because early diagnosis and treatment can help improve the quality of life for those affected by this disorder.
If your child exhibits symptoms of ADHD, consistency, structure, and care are essential ingredients in helping them manage it. This means setting routines such as homework and bedtime, as well as providing support and encouragement.
If you're an adult with ADHD, therapy can help you learn how to manage your symptoms and live a more productive, fulfilling life. In therapy, you'll learn how to set goals and create a plan to achieve them. You'll also learn coping skills for managing symptoms, as well as how to manage your time and create a more organized lifestyle.
Comments