Understanding ADHD: Symptoms and Diagnosis

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly known as ADHD, is a condition that affects many children and adults worldwide. It impacts a person’s ability to focus, stay organized, and control their behavior. Understanding ADHD is important because it helps us recognize the signs and seek the right treatment. In this post, we will discuss the symptoms of ADHD and how it is diagnosed.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurological disorder, which means it relates to the brain and how it functions. People with ADHD often have differences in brain structure and chemicals that affect attention and self-control. ADHD is usually identified in childhood, but it can continue into adulthood.

Symptoms of ADHD

ADHD symptoms are generally grouped into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Some people with ADHD may only have symptoms of one category, while others may have symptoms of both.

Inattention Symptoms

Inattention symptoms make it hard for a person to focus and stay organized. These symptoms include:

• Trouble paying attention: People with ADHD often find it difficult to focus on tasks, especially if they are not interested in them.
• Easily distracted: They may get sidetracked by unrelated thoughts or external stimuli.
• Forgetfulness: Forgetting daily activities, such as doing chores or returning calls, is common.
• Avoiding tasks that require sustained effort: Tasks like homework or lengthy reading can be particularly challenging.
• Losing things: Items like keys, school materials, and even toys are frequently misplaced.
• Poor organization: Keeping track of tasks and managing time can be difficult.

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms

Hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms involve excessive movement and acting without thinking. These symptoms include:

• Fidgeting and squirming: People with ADHD often have trouble sitting still and might fidget or tap their hands and feet.
• Inability to stay seated: They may frequently get up from their seat in situations where staying seated is expected, such as in class.
• Running or climbing in inappropriate situations: This is more common in children but can also be seen in teens and adults.
• Difficulty playing quietly: Leisure activities that require calm and quiet behavior can be challenging.
• Talking excessively: Interrupting others or blurting out answers before a question is finished is common.
• Impatience: They may find it hard to wait their turn or become impatient with slow-moving activities.

How is ADHD Diagnosed?

Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation. There is no single test for ADHD, so doctors use a combination of methods to make a diagnosis. Here’s how the process usually works:

Gathering Information

The doctor will collect detailed information about the person’s behavior from multiple sources. This may include:

• Interviews: Talking with the child or adult and their family members helps the doctor understand the symptoms and how they affect daily life.
• Questionnaires: Teachers, parents, and the person themselves may fill out standardized forms that rate ADHD symptoms.
• Medical history: Reviewing past medical records helps rule out other conditions that might cause similar symptoms.

Observations and Tests

Doctors may observe the person in different settings, such as at home or school, to see how they behave. In some cases, they might use tests that measure attention and executive function (skills needed for planning and organization).

Criteria for Diagnosis

For a diagnosis of ADHD, the symptoms must meet specific criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). The key points include:

• Presence of symptoms: Several symptoms must be present before the age of 12.
• Duration and consistency: Symptoms must be present for at least six months and occur in more than one setting (e.g., both at home and school).
• Impact on daily life: Symptoms must significantly interfere with social, academic, or occupational functioning (American Psychiatric Association, 2022).

Conclusion

ADHD is a complex condition that affects many aspects of a person’s life. Recognizing the symptoms and getting a proper diagnosis is crucial for managing ADHD effectively. If you or someone you know might have ADHD, seeking help from a healthcare professional is an important first step. With the right support and strategies, individuals with ADHD can lead successful and fulfilling lives.

Set Yourself Up For Success With An ADHD Evaluation

You deserve to have answers to your challenges with ADHD, and at Huntington Psychological Services, we’re here to provide them. To learn more about ADHD testing and assessment, schedule a free consultation call or contact us.