ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyper-Activity Disorder) is a mental disorder characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention and/or hyperactive-impulsive behavior. In order to be diagnosed, the condition must cause significant impairment in at least two settings, usually meaning a child's symptoms are present both at home and at school. Find below some common signs and symptoms of the disorder:
Inattention:
- Failing to pay close attention to details or making careless mistakes when doing schoolwork or other activities
- Trouble keeping attention focused during age-appropriate play or tasks
- Appearing not to listen or hear when spoken to
- Failing to follow instructions or finish age-appropriate tasks
- Avoiding tasks that require a high amount of mental effort and organization, such as school projects
- Frequently losing items required to facilitate tasks or activities, such as school supplies
- Excessive distractibility/ Forgetfulness
Hyperactive and Impulsive behavior:
- Excessive fidgeting with hands or feet or squirming in seat
- Leaving seat often, even when inappropriate
- Running or climbing at inappropriate times
- Difficulty in quiet play
- Frequently feeling restless
- Excessive speech
- Answering a question before the speaker has finished
- Failing to await one’s turn
- Interrupting the activities of others at inappropriate times
Diagnosis:
It is important to remember that while all children experience inattention or hyperactivity occasionally, ADHD is characterized by the excessive presence of these symptoms so that they impair a child's ability to function in everyday life in more than one setting. A diagnosis is generally made only if a child has experienced six symptoms from the above categories for at least three months. Click here for more detailed information on diagnosis and a description of the three subtypes of the disorder.
If your child’s long-term issues with inattention, hyper behavior, and impulsivity are preventing his or her success, we invite you to consider the Brain Balance Program. Contact us today to learn more.
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