The three core symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are:

• Inattention—an impaired ability to concentrate and focus on details
• Hyperactivity—restlessness or constantly being "on the go," fidgetiness
• Impulsivity—acting without thinking or restraint, difficulty waiting one's turn, interrupting others¹

Inattention may be the primary symptom with some people, while hyperactivity and impulsivity may be the primary symptoms for others. Most people affected by ADHD have problems in all three symptom areas, hence the prevalence of the "combined" type of ADHD.

Difficulty in school or at work, troubled relationships with family and peers, and low self-esteem are some of the issues commonly faced by people with ADHD.² Although ADHD symptoms are usually noticed in childhood, approximately 80% of children with ADHD continue to experience symptoms of ADHD into adolescence, and approximately 65% will continue to experience symptoms into their adult life.³

ADHD Testing and Diagnosis
Because everyone can, from time to time, show signs of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, professionals use strict criteria when diagnosing ADHD. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR^®) specifies that for the diagnosis of ADHD to be made:

• the behaviors must appear early in life (before age 7)
• the behaviors must be present for more than 6 months
• ADHD behaviors must have a negative effect on the person's functioning at school, on the job, or in social situations⁴

ADHD diagnosis must be made by a trained professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or primary care physician. Family members and teachers can be particularly helpful in aiding the ADHD diagnosis by providing detailed information about the history of behaviors they have observed in the patient.

Symptoms of ADHD in children

Inattention

• Fails to pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes and is easily distracted
• Has difficulty maintaining attention in tasks or play activities, has difficulty organizing tasks or activities
• Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• Does not follow directions and fails to complete schoolwork, tests, chores, or on-the-job duties
• Is often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity

• Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
• Leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected
• Runs or climbs excessively when inappropriate
• Has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
• Often talks excessively

Impulsivity

• Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
• Has difficulty waiting for a turn
• Interrupts or intrudes on others (for example, butts into conversations or games)

Please take a few moments to complete an online assessment that will enable you to easily provide your child's doctor with a detailed list of symptoms.