Living with ADHD can be overwhelming for both adults and children. It’s frustrating when organisation feels impossible. Recognise the signs and find an ADHD specialist to take control of your ADHD today.
ADHD Symptoms In Children
Early diagnosis and treatment of ADHD can significantly improve a child’s long-term success and well-being (CDC, 2020). Understanding the signs can help parents take action sooner.
Inattention
- Frequently forgets homework or loses items like lunchboxes.
- Struggles to follow multi-step instructions like “get dressed and pack your bag.”
- Easily distracted, stopping tasks halfway to focus on something else.
Hyperactivity
- Constantly fidgeting, squirming, or moving, even during quiet time.
- Talks excessively or interrupts conversations.
- Climbs on furniture or runs in inappropriate places.
Impulsivity
- Interrupts or blurts out during conversations.
- Grabs toys without asking or acts without thinking, like darting into the street.
- Struggles to wait their turn in games or activities.
These behaviors may occur occasionally in all children, but if they are persistent, frequent, and disruptive, seek a professional evaluation such as a doctor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
ADHD doesn’t only affect children—adults can experience significant challenges too.
ADHD Symptoms In Adults
Common ADHD signs in adults include:
Inattention
- Frequently misplacing everyday items like keys, wallets, or phones.
- Struggles to stay focused during long meetings or conversations.
- Often forgets appointments or deadlines, even with reminders.
Hyperactivity
- Feels restless, often tapping, pacing, or unable to relax.
- Talks excessively or interrupts during discussions.
- Takes on too many tasks at once, often leaving them incomplete.
Impulsivity
- Frequently interrupts others or finishes their sentences.
- Makes impulsive purchases or decisions without considering consequences.
- Struggles with patience, like waiting in lines or during traffic.
ADHD Treatments
Research shows that only about one-third of children diagnosed with ADHD continue to meet full criteria as adults, with some experiencing no symptoms or only partial symptoms (CHADD).
For individuals with more severe ADHD symptoms, medication may be considered. However, ADHD medication can impact children’s developing brains (National Institute of Mental Health), and long-term use is associated with cardiovascular diseases (JAMA Network).
For individuals with newly-diagnosed or mild ADHD symptoms, non-pharmacological interventions are often recommended as the first line of treatment:
Behavioral Therapy: Helps develop coping strategies and improve self-management skills.
Lifestyle Adjustments: For example, exercise, nutrition, sleep and having a social support network.
An ADHD specialist is trained in behavioral therapy and has the experience to personalize effective solutions tailored to your specific ADHD needs.