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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADD)
A person with ADHD has a chronic level of inattention, impulsive
hyperactivity, or both such that daily functioning is compromised. The
symptoms of the disorder must be present at levels that are higher than
expected for a person's developmental stage and must interfere with the
person's ability to function in different settings (e.g., in school and at
home). A person with ADHD may struggle in important areas of life, such as
peer and family relationships, and school or work performance.
WebMD reports ADHD/ADD as follows:
| Attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition in which a person has
trouble paying attention and focusing on tasks. It may begin in
early childhood and can continue into adulthood. Without
treatment, ADHD can cause problems at home, school, work, and with
relationships. ADHD was once called attention deficit disorder
(ADD). The exact cause is not
clear, but ADHD tends to run in families.
The three types of ADHD symptoms
are:
- Trouble paying attention.
People with ADHD are easily distracted and have a hard time
focusing on any one task.
- Trouble sitting still for
even a short time. This is called hyperactivity. Children
with ADHD may squirm, fidget, or run around at the wrong times.
Teens and adults often feel restless and fidgety and are not
able to enjoy reading or other quiet activities.
- Acting before thinking.
People with ADHD may talk too loud, laugh too loud, or become
angrier than the situation calls for. Children may not be able
to wait for their turn or to share. This makes it hard for them
to play with other children. Teens and adults seem to "leap
before they look." They may make quick decisions that have a
long-term impact on their lives. They may spend too much money
or change jobs often.
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