Recognizing Key Signs of ADHD

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, can only be diagnosed when a person exhibits at least six of nine primary symptoms across different settings over six months. It manifests mainly in two forms: inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive. These symptoms must be noticeable both at home and in school or work environments.

Focusing on inattentive ADHD, common signs include:

Careless mistakes or neglecting details in tasks like homework or work assignments.

Difficulty sustaining attention during lengthy activities such as lectures or reading.

Getting distracted easily, even when directly addressed.

Struggling to follow instructions and manage sequential tasks or organize belongings.

Disinterest in tasks needing prolonged focus, such as preparing reports or studying, especially among children who may avoid tests and homework.

Losing essential items like keys, phones, or school supplies regularly.

Forgetfulness in daily routines—forgetting to return calls or pay bills.

Regarding hyperactive-impulsive tendencies, symptoms include:

Fidgeting, squirming, or impatience, often leaving their seat unexpectedly.

Restlessness, like climbing or running into inappropriate situations.

Difficulty relaxing and staying still in quiet settings.

Constant movement, feeling driven by an internal motor.

Excessive talking and interrupting others during conversations.

Impulsivity, such as answering questions prematurely or jumping into others’ activities.

Impatience waiting for turns, selecting to intrude on conversations or activities.

In women, ADHD symptoms vary and often require self-reported checklists for accurate diagnosis, as behavioral patterns differ from those seen in men or children. Anxiety and depression frequently accompany ADHD, complicating the diagnosis.