Childhood Symptoms

ADHD symptoms are put into two main categories: Inattention and Hyperactivity-Impulsivity.The diagnosis of ADHD is based on the number, persistence and history of ADHD behaviors, and the degree to which they impede a child's performance in more than one setting.

     Inattention Symptoms

• Often doesn't pay attention to details; makes careless mistakes
• Often has trouble paying attention in work or play
• Often doesn't appear to listen when directly addressed
• Often doesn't follow through on directions; fails to finish
• Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities
• Often stays away from activities that need a sustained mental effort
• Often loses things he or she needs
• Often gets easily distracted by distracting noises
• Often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms

     Hyperactivity

• Often fidgets or squirms
• Often gets up from seat
• Often climbs or runs when he or she shouldn't
• Often has trouble with quiet activities
• Often keeps on going, as if driven by a motor
• Often talks overactively

     Impulsivity

• Often shouts out answers before questions have been finished
• Often has trouble being patient for his or her turn
• Often interrupts or intrudes on others


Only a professional can diagnose a child with ADHD because all children behave in these ways at times.

    Coexisting Conditions

     Many kids that have ADHD have other conditions that can make diagnosis and treatment complicated.The most frequent conditions that may be present with ADHD are:

     Learning Disabilities

     Learning disabilities include reading, mathematics and disabilities score substantially below that expected for age, schooling and level of intelligence. In addition, these features include low self-esteem and poor social skills.

     Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD)

1. ODD is marked by a pattern of disobedient, defiant, negative and hostile behavior toward authority figures that occurs for at least six months.
2. CD is characterized by a persistent pattern of violating societal norms and the rights of others.
3. Because there are currently no approved medications to treat ODD or CD, parents may need additional support to manage these disorders in their child with ADHD.

     Mood and Anxiety Disorders

     Children with ADHD are at greater risk for having problems with anxiety or depression, although these mood disorders may not become prominent until adolescence or adulthood.Regardless of origin, many experts believe that the consequences of ADHD-related behaviors may in themselves cause anxiety or depression and lower self-esteem.When present, a mood or anxiety disorder may be treated in addition to the ADHD.


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