An excessive amount of hyperactivity and impulsive conduct might be symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a mental health illness.

symptoms of ADHD

There are many different behaviors linked to ADHD. Among the more popular ones are:

finding it difficult to concentrate or focus on duties

having difficulty remembering to do chores

being easily sidetracked, finding it difficult to concentrate, and often interrupting others when they're speaking

Certain characteristics of ADHD, such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, or trouble focusing, can have distinct signs and symptoms.

An individual with hyperactivity and impulsivity may struggle to play or complete tasks; find it difficult to sit still or stay sitting in class; Silently talk too much, talk too much, can't wait their turn, and frequently interrupt people when they're working on a task, having a conversation, or playing.

Whether learning or working, a person who struggles with attention may: frequently make mistakes or overlook facts; struggle to stay focused whether reading, listening, or conversing; or struggle to organize their daily duties.

regularly misplace things and become easily sidetracked by little things going on around them

You may experience any, all, or none of these symptoms if you or your child has ADHD. The type of ADHD you have will determine the symptoms you experience. View a list of typical ADHD symptoms in kids.

Executive dysfunction: what is it?

An inability to pay attention, process or recall new information, ignore distractions, control emotions and behaviors, or pay attention are all examples of executive dysfunction, a prevalent symptom of ADHD.

ADHD types

The American Psychological Association has classified ADHD into three categories, or kinds, in an effort to improve consistency in diagnosis. These categories include primarily hyperactive-impulsive, primarily inattentive, and a mix of the two.

majority of inattentive

As the name implies, this particular kind of ADHD is characterized by severe difficulties focusing, finishing tasks, and adhering to directions.

Experts surmise that a large number of kids with the inattentive form of ADHD might go undiagnosed since they don't frequently cause disruptions in the classroom. Studies (Reliable Source) indicate that girls with ADHD are more likely to experience this.

Mostly impulsive and hyperactive kind

The main behavioral traits of those with this kind of ADHD are hyperactivity and impulsivity. Among these behaviors are fidgeting, talking over other people when they're speaking, and not being able to wait their turn.

People with mainly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may still struggle to focus on tasks, even when inattention is less of an issue.

combination of impulsive, hyperactive, and inattentive types

The most prevalent kind of ADHD is this one. Individuals with this mixed form of ADHD exhibit signs of hyperactivity and inattention. These include being impulsive, having trouble paying attention, and having higher than normal amounts of energy and activity.

The kind of ADHD that you or your child has will dictate the course of treatment. As your ADHD type changes over time, your course of treatment may also need to adjust. Find out more about ADHD's three forms.

Why does ADHD occur?

Despite ADHD's widespread prevalence, its exact etiology is still unknown to medical professionals and researchers. Its genesis is thought to be neurological. Genetics might also be involved.

Research from a reliable source indicates that ADHD may be caused by a decrease in dopamine. The brain chemical dopamine facilitates the transmission of messages from one nerve to another. It contributes to the elicitation of feelings and actions.

Additional studies point to a structural variation in the brain. Results show that there is less gray matter volume in those with ADHD. Gray matter comprises the brain regions that support speech.

self-discipline, judgment, and muscle control

Potential causes of ADHD, including smoking during pregnancy, are still being investigated by researchers. The risk factors and possible causes of ADHD.

ADHD evaluation and diagnosis

It is not possible to diagnose ADHD in yourself or your child with a single test.

The benefits of a novel test to detect adult ADHD were emphasized in a 2017 study by Trusted Source; nonetheless, many practitioners feel that more than one test is needed to make the diagnosis.

A doctor will review any symptoms you or your kid have experienced in the past six months in order to determine a diagnosis.

Teachers or family members will probably provide information to your doctor, who may also review symptoms using checklists and rating scales. They will also perform a physical examination to look for additional health issues. Find out more about the capabilities and limitations of ADHD rating systems.

See a doctor about getting evaluated if you think you or your kid may have ADHD. You can also speak with your child's school counselor. Children's problems that might be influencing their academic performance are routinely evaluated by schools.

Give your doctor or counselor notes and observations regarding your behavior or that of your child for the assessment.

They might recommend you or your child to an ADHD expert if they have any suspicions about ADHD. They might also advise scheduling a visit with a psychiatrist or neurologist, depending on the diagnosis.

Treatment for ADHD

Behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of the two are commonly used in the treatment of ADHD.

Talk therapy and psychotherapy are two examples of therapeutic types. You and your child will speak about how ADHD impacts your life and strategies for managing it during talk therapy.

If you have ADHD, medication can also be very beneficial. The way that ADHD drugs work on brain chemistry helps you better control your urges and behaviors.

Behavioral therapies and treatment choices that can help reduce the symptoms of ADHD.

ADHD prescription drugs

For the treatment of ADHD, stimulants and non stimulants are the two primary drug classes.

The most often prescribed drugs for ADHD are those that stimulate the central nervous system (CNS). Dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain are raised by these medications.

Methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine-based stimulants (Adderall) are two examples of these medications.

Your doctor can recommend a non stimulant drug if stimulants don't work well for you or your child or if they have unpleasant side effects. Some non stimulant drugs function by raising norepinephrine levels in the brain.

Among these drugs are antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and atomoxetine (Strattera).

Both advantages and disadvantages might be associated with ADHD drugs. Find out more about adult ADHD medication alternatives.

natural treatments for attention deficit hyperactivity

To help alleviate the symptoms of ADHD, a number of treatments have been proposed in addition to or instead of medication.

To begin with, changing your lifestyle could assist you or your child in controlling the symptoms of ADHD.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Trusted Source:

Reducing food chemicals and allergies may also help lessen the symptoms of ADHD. Find out more about these and other non-pharmaceutical methods for treating ADHD.

consuming a healthy, well-balanced diet

engaging in physical activity for at least 60 minutes per day

obtaining enough sleep minimizing daily screen time on TV, computers, and phones

Numerous studies have also demonstrated the potential benefits of yoga, tai chi, and outdoor activities for reducing hyperactivity and alleviating symptoms of ADHD.

Another alternative is mindfulness meditation. According to research published in 2015 (Trusted Source), meditation may help ADHD sufferers pay attention for longer periods of time.