The Multifaceted Symptoms of ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It can impact their daily life in many ways. ADHD symptoms can vary from person to person and manifest in different ways. This blog provides insight into the symptoms of ADHD and their various manifestations. It also highlights key signs of ADHD for children and adults.
Read about the early symptoms of ADHD.
ADHD Types and Symptoms
Three main types of ADHD are classified based on the symptoms that individuals exhibit. Take a look at the following:
Predominantly inattentive Presentation (ADHD PI or ADHD I)
This type of person struggles with concentration and attention.
The following are key characteristics:
Daily activities that are forgotten
Items required to complete tasks are missing
Inability to focus long enough to finish tasks or play games
Frequent mistakes made at work or in other activities
Avoiding or being reluctant in engaging in tasks that require sustained mental efforts
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation (ADHD-PH or ADHD-HI)
Hyperactivity and impulsivity are the main characteristics of this type.
This type is characterised by:
Fidgeting, tapping or twitching hands or feet is a sign of restlessness.
Excessive talkativeness (inability to play quietly or participate in activities)
Inappropriately running or climbing (not understanding social cues).
Impulsivity ([1]) - such as blurting answers out before the questions have been completed
Combined Display (ADHD-C),
This involves a combination of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. ADHD-C patients exhibit symptoms that are more severe in both categories. The most common presentation is in children.
ADHD Symptoms
We've now delved deeper into the symptoms of ADHD.
Attention
This is a primary symptom of ADHD. People who have ADHD often struggle to stay focused on tasks or games, and make careless errors because they are not paying attention to the details. It may seem that they are forgetful or easily distracted. This can have a negative impact on their academic performance and job performance.
Read about the impact ADHD has on a child’s performance in school and at home.
Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is a core symptom of ADHD, particularly in children. This is usually manifested as excessive fidgeting and restlessness. It can also be difficult to stay seated, even in situations that are expected.
Impulsivity
People with ADHD often have difficulty waiting their turn, interrupting other people, or making impulsive decisions. These people do not consider the possible outcomes and can end up in awkward situations.
Social situations
Social interactions can be negatively affected by impulsiveness or inability to maintain attention during conversations. This could lead to relationship issues.
Problems with organizing work
ADHD is characterized by problems with organization. People with ADHD may struggle to manage their time, complete assignments or maintain a clean living environment.
Forgetfulness
ADHD is often characterized by forgetfulness. People with ADHD tend to forget appointments, lose items, or forget daily tasks.
Poor Time Management
ADHD can cause individuals to have difficulty managing their time, which may lead them to struggle meeting deadlines and allocating their time effectively. It can be very difficult to manage in an office setting.
Problems following instructions
This is a very common sign of ADHD. People with ADHD have difficulty following instructions, especially multi-step ones. This can affect their ability to finish tasks.
Sensory Processing Problems
Sensory overload can affect individuals. They are often unable to regulate and process sensory information. This can lead to sensory over-responsivity or sensory under-responsivity.
Read more about sensory issues and ADHD here.
ADHD Symptoms
ADHD symptoms can vary both in intensity and combinations. Some people may show more symptoms of inattention while others might be hyperactive and impulsive. To provide support and targeted interventions, it is important to recognize the variety of symptoms.
ADHD symptoms in newborns
ADHD is usually diagnosed in children, but certain infantile characteristics may indicate a tendency to the disorder. These include:
Children who cry excessively have difficulty regulating their emotions and having to be soothed.
Sleep difficulties: difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Regressions can occur in children up to 24-30 months of age. They are usually associated with developmental milestones, such as crawling and walking. During regressions the child's sleep pattern may be disturbed and they may become clingy or seek comfort from their parents. ADHD is hard to diagnose in infants and newborns. It is still important to be aware of the symptoms.
ADHD symptoms in toddlers
High level of activity - constant running, climbing or difficulty in sitting still
Instability: taking toys away from others without waiting, doing things that could be dangerous (without knowing the consequences), etc.
ADHD symptoms in adults
Adults may experience/exhibit these symptoms in addition to the core symptoms:
Chronic Procrastination
Adults with ADHD can struggle to complete their tasks, as they find it difficult to start.
Relationships are difficult to maintain
Inattention and impulsivity can have a negative impact on relationships. They can lead to miscommunications, forgetfulness and a lack of ability to maintain connections.
Understanding the multiple aspects of ADHD is crucial to early identification, intervention and support.
We offer customized treatment plans for ADHD. Our treatment includes:
Psychoeducation
Play Therapy
Cognitive Restructuring
Contact our team in Bangalore or Hyderabad to learn more about our treatment options for ADHD.
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This blog is from February 2024; can link this here once it's updated on the website.
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