Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) manifests at an early age, is a chronic condition, and can be diagnosed in adulthood as well. It affects 5% of children and 2.5% of adults worldwide. The symptoms interfere with functioning in at least two typical environments: home and school. With age, ADHD symptoms often decrease, but impulsivity, restlessness, and attention deficits frequently remain. Adults with ADHD commonly experience anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other issues.
In the hyperactive form, restlessness is evident during rule-bound activities such as play or learning, often expressed with movements of the limbs, experienced by significant emotional distress.
In the attention deficit form, maintaining a single focus is challenging, and the ability to concentrate could be better, quickly shifting to external stimuli. Impulsivity is common, such as answering before a question is completed.
Symptoms in Adults:
- Impulsivity
- Difficulty with organisation
- Difficulty with time management
- Difficulty focusing on specific tasks
- Restlessness
- Difficulty with planning
- Frequent mood swings
- Low-stress tolerance
- Irritability
- Decreased patience
- Losing things
- Difficulty following tasks and instructions and completing them
Symptoms in Children (Attention Deficit Form):
- Frequent mechanical errors in tasks
- Difficulty concentrating on a single topic
- Difficulty listening
- Difficulty following instructions
- Difficulty with organisation
- Frequent loss of small items
- Easy distraction
- Forgetfulness
Symptoms in Children (Hyperactive Form):
- Difficulty remaining still during lessons
- Constant movement
- Excessive talking
- Difficulty waiting for one’s turn
- Answering before a question is finished
- Difficulty playing quietly or completing tasks
- Fidgeting in a chair
- Restlessness in limbs
Treatment:
- Pharmacotherapy
- Psychotherapy