ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder in mental health that causes higher-than-normal levels of hyperactivity and impulsive behaviors in an individual. It also comes with an inability to maintain focus on a particular task and trouble sitting in one position for long.
ADHD is found both in adults and children. A series of observable responses are associated with this disorder.
ADHD symptoms
- Difficulties concentrating/focusing on a task
- Repeatedly forgetting to complete tasks
- Being easily distracted
- Having troubles sitting still
- Cutting others short when they are talking
Bare in mind that different symptoms are associated with different types of the disorder
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ADHD types
ADHD has been categorized into three different types to make diagnosis easy and consistent. They include;
- Predominantly Inattentive
This type is associated with an extreme difficulty in following instructions given and having serious troubles focusing on and finishing a task.
- Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
Primarily linked with hyperactive and impulsive behavioral symptoms. Symptoms like constantly fidgeting, not being able to wait their turn and interrupting others while they’re talking. People with this type may also find it difficult to focus on tasks.
- Combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive
This is the most common type today. People with this type display both hyperactive and inattentive symptoms such as not being able to pay attention, tending towards impulsiveness and abnormal levels of energy.
While the symptoms might decrease as one gets older, more than half of persons with it can still exhibit the symptoms as adults. A lot of ADHD symptoms are similar to childhood behaviors so it is often difficult to know what is related to it and not. In little girls, it can be characterized by being hyper-talkative.
ADHD causes
Although the cause isn’t particularly known, it is believed to have neurological and genetic origins. A decrease in dopamine can also be a cause factor (Dopamine is a chemical present in the brain which helps to transfer signals from a nerve to another. It plays a key role in the triggering of emotional responses and movements).
ADHD is not a disability, it is only a disorder.
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