How to Define ADHD

Understanding the Basics

Know the general signs of ADHD. Many kids are naturally hyperactive and erratic, which can make ADHD hard to notice in childhood. Adults can also deal with ADHD as well, and manifest the same symptoms. If you feel that you or a loved one often seems distracted or impulsive, it's possible that ADHD is involved. There are signs to look for in case you think your child or loved one may have ADHD. Try setting up an appointment with a doctor or specialist if you see signs like: Struggling to focus Daydreaming often Losing things Forgetting things Fidgeting and not sitting still Strong emotions Love of novelty Talking a lot Taking risks Making careless mistakes and impulsive decisions Struggling to resist temptation Struggling to wait their turn Struggling to get along with others

Recognize that the signs should be noticeable and well-established in order for someone to qualify for the diagnosis. The DSM-5 defines three types of ADHD: inattentive type, hyperactive type, and combined type. Several signs must have existed by the age of 12, and they must show up in more than one setting for at least 6 months. A diagnosis must be made by a trained professional. Traits should be obvious in the person compared to their same-age peers, and they should be strong enough to impact normal functioning at school, at work, and/or in social settings. For hyperactive type, the traits should be seen as disruptive. The traits should not be explained by a different condition (e.g. autism or oppositional defiant disorder). The DSM-5 criteria require that children 16 and under must have at least six traits in a category to gain the diagnosis, while those 17 and older need five traits.

Recognize the inattentive traits of ADHD. Inattentive type ADHD makes it difficult for a person to focus, no matter how hard they might try. People with this type of ADHD will usually exhibit at least 5 or 6 of the following: Makes careless mistakes and is inattentive to detail in work, school, or with other activities. Has trouble paying attention during tasks or while playing. "Tunes out" people who are talking to them, on purpose or by accident Doesn't follow through with homework, chores, or jobs and is easily sidetracked. Is organizationally challenged. Avoids tasks requiring sustained focus, such as schoolwork. Can't keep track of or often loses keys, glasses, papers, tools, or other possessions. Is easily distracted. Is forgetful.

Notice the hyperactive-impulsive signs of ADHD. People with this type of ADHD typically struggle with self-control. To qualify for ADHD, the traits must be considered disruptive. The behaviors to look out for include: Being fidgety or squirmy, such as constantly tapping the hands or feet. The child running or climbing inappropriately. The adult constantly feeling restless. Struggling to play quietly or do quiet activities. Being constantly on the go without breaks. Excessive talking. Blurting out even before questions are asked. Struggling to wait for their turn. Interrupting others or inserting himself into others' discussions or games. Being very impatient. Saying inappropriate comments, showing emotions without restraint, or acting without regards to consequences.

Look for combined symptoms of ADHD. For combined type ADHD, the individual will present with at least six signs of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD. This is the most common type of ADHD that is diagnosed in children.

Keep in mind that causes of ADHD are not fully clear yet. Genetics play a role in ADHD, and researchers have noticed certain genetic quirks in people with ADHD. In addition, studies show correlations between children with ADHD to prenatal alcohol and smoking as well as to early childhood exposure to lead. People with ADHD are diverse. This can make it harder to figure out specific causes.

Understanding the Challenges of ADHD

Learn about the basal ganglia. Scientific analyses show the brains of persons with ADHD are slightly different in that two structures tend to be smaller. The first, the basal ganglia, regulates the movement of muscles and signals which should be working and which should be at rest during given activities. This can cause people with ADHD to be very fidgety. While fidgeting may be a sign of inattention in neurotypical people, people with ADHD often need to fidget in order to focus better.

Learn the role of the prefrontal cortex. The second brain structure that is smaller than normal in a person with ADHD is the prefrontal cortex. This is the brain's hub for conducting higher-order executive tasks, such as memory, learning, and attention regulation, and where theses tasks come together to help us function intellectually. The prefrontal cortex influences the levels of dopamine and serotonin. Dopamine is needed for focus, and people with ADHD tend to have low dopamine. Serotonin impacts mood, sleep, and appetite. A smaller-than-normal prefrontal cortex with lower-than-optimal dopamine and serotonin can make it harder to focus and "tune out" distractions. Persons with ADHD struggle to focus on a single thing at a time, and they may get distracted and struggle with impulse control.

Know that ADHD is much more than what it looks like. People tend to focus on the ADHD traits that are visible to others, like inattention or talking a lot. But they may not recognize that the difficulties people with ADHD face go beyond that. Here are some of the things people with ADHD can feel: Strong emotions Fear of rejection and criticism Sensory overwhelm Difficulty filtering out distractions Extreme difficulty focusing on things that aren't interesting (no matter how much they want to) Disappointment from frequent failures and setbacks Fatigue from working so hard to do "easy" tasksKeep in mind: Most people with ADHD aren't trying to be lazy, dramatic, or difficult. They're struggling to fight an invisible uphill battle. This means that a person with ADHD may work much harder to accomplish things.

Recognize the self-esteem issues that can accompany ADHD. People with ADHD can get a lot of negative feedback. They notice that they can't do things as easily as their peers can, they may get corrected and punished often, and they can struggle to achieve their goals. That's frustrating, and they may start feeling like something is wrong with them. A positive environment, where people offer praise and are willing to negotiate and help with meeting expectations, can help a lot.

Notice any co-occurring conditions. People with ADHD are at higher risk for mood disorders, behavior disorders, and other conditions. People with ADHD may also have: Anxiety Depression Sensory Processing Disorder Bipolar disorder Conduct disorder Oppositional defiant disorder Dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other learning disabilities Autism

Recognize that diagnosis can lead to better support. Without help, people with ADHD may struggle, and start to believe that they are "stupid" or "bad." A diagnosis can help them understand that they aren't broken, and help the people around them understand how to help them. Lack of support can have serious consequences. People with ADHD may struggle with addiction, employment difficulties, and in some cases even homelessness or prison.

Recognize that the right support can help a person with ADHD have a brighter future. Experts aren't clear on whether ADHD can be outgrown or whether some people just learn strong coping skills. Either way, people with ADHD deserve guidance and support. The right help can help them accomplish more, and feel better about themselves. They can also learn strategies to manage their ADHD on their own as they get older. Here are a few examples of strategies: Using reminders, alarms, and alerts Breaking big tasks into smaller pieces, and tackling one piece at a time Prioritizing tasks Labeling feelings and figuring how to deal with overwhelming emotions Using fidget toys/tools, and fidgeting as needed Checking with teachers or bosses to make sure they didn't miss any important information about a task Keeping a routine Role-playing to practice difficult social situations

Understanding Strengths Related to ADHD

Recognize that people with ADHD can be very creative. They think differently, and that can lead to ingenuity. Their imagination can lead to beautiful things. They can also have very strong problem-solving skills, and be able to think of solutions that no one else considered. People with ADHD may have flashes of brilliance.

Keep in mind that hyperfocus and hyperfixations can be beneficial. People with ADHD can have laser-like focus on tasks that interest them. This can allow them to hone their skills and learn many things. They can become incredibly skilled at their favorite things, and possibly accomplish a lot.

Know that people with ADHD may be very adventurous. People with ADHD may be more likely to take risks and be spontaneous, and sometimes reap rewards as a result. This can lead to successes in business, athletics, and other areas. People with ADHD can be very good in a crisis, being able to stay calm in extreme situations.

Keep in mind that people with ADHD can be fun, charming, and kind. Some people with ADHD have a "sparkling personality," and can be a delight to get to know. They can be very funny and entertaining. They know what it is like to struggle, so they also may be very humble, generous, and empathetic towards others who are going through a rough time. A person with ADHD can make a very good romantic partner.

Keep in mind that every person with ADHD is different. Not every person with ADHD will have every positive trait in the list, and they'll also likely have ones that aren't listed. Everyone is unique.