Confidential Care- Psychiatric & Couseling Services

ADHD - Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder

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ADHD comprises a pattern of symptoms that are maladaptive and inconsistent with the patient's developmental level and that persist for at least 6 months.

To be diagnosed with ADHD, the patient must have the following

Some symptoms of hyperactivity - impulsivity or inattention present before age 7.
Some impairment observed in at least 2 settings (e.g., school and home )
Clear evidence of interference with social, academic, or work function
No other mental disorders present (e.g., mood disorder, anxiety disorder, dissociative disorder, or personality disorder )
6 or more symptoms of inattention AND / OR 6 or more symptoms of hyperactivity - impulsivity.

SYMPTOMS OF INATTENTION

Often fails to pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work or other activities.

Often has difficulty maintaining focus on tasks or play activity.

Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or other responsibilities (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).

Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.

Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to take part in activities that require continuous mental effort, such as homework or schoolwork.

Often loses things needed for tasks or activities, such as toys, assignments, books or tools.

Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.

Is often forgetful in daily activities.

SYMPTOMS OF HYPERACTIVITY

Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.

Often runs around or climbs excessively in situations which is not appropriate.

Often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which staying seated is expected.

Often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly.

Is often " on the go " or often acts as if "driven by a motor".

Often talks Excessively

SYMPTOMS OF IMPULSIVITY

Often blurts out answers before questions have been completed.

Often has difficulty waiting for turn.

Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butting into conversations or games)

* The above information is adapted from American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, IV Edition (DSM-IV™)