Symptoms in Childhood

Is it really ADHD?

ADHD symptoms manifest differently at different stages of life. Symptoms include persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that are continuous and disruptive in 2 or more areas of a child's life (school, relationships, social settings, etc.).

CHILDREN	TEENS
Hyperactivity	Hyperactivity
trouble sitting still may jump out of chair at inappropriate time an excess of physical energy lots of running around excessive talking difficulty doing "quiet" activities restlessness	fidgety uncomfortable with sitting still restlessness
Impulsivity	Impulsivity
blurts out answers has a hard time waiting their turn interrupts other or intrudes on games, conversations	poor judgement takes unwise risks excessive impatience speaks before thinking
Inattention	Inattention
difficulty paying close attention to detail often doesn't listen, even when spoken to directly may not follow through on instructions and has difficulty finishing tasks forgetful	disorganized persistent day dreaming may not follow through on instructions often loses things forgetful

Special issues for teens

Adapting to the teenage years presents a host of new challenges, such as managing greater independence from parents, adjusting to sexual maturation, developing new peer relationships, facing more complex homework, and planning for college. ADHD, if not treated throughout the day, can reduce a teen's ability to meet these challenges.

The following statistics compare teens with untreated ADHD to those who do not have ADHD or who consistently treat their ADHD with medication.

Teens with untreated ADHD are:

4x more likely to be a driver in a car crash resulting in bodily injury
3x more likely to struggle with a substance abuse disorder
3x more likely to have a sexually transmitted disease

With professional treatment and family support, children and teens with ADHD can concentrate on improving school performance, developing friendships, and enhancing family bonds.