ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD)

Disorders marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development

Inattention

Overlook or miss details, make careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or during other activities
Have problems sustaining attention in tasks or play, including conversations, lectures, or lengthy reading
Not seem to listen when spoken to directly
Not follow through on instructions and fail to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace or start tasks but quickly lose focus and get easily sidetracked
Have problems organising tasks and activities, such as what to do in sequence, keeping materials and belongings in order, having messy work and poor time management, and failing to meet deadlines
Avoid or dislike tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as schoolwork or homework, or for teens and older adults, preparing reports, completing forms, or reviewing lengthy papers
Lose things necessary for tasks or activities, such as school supplies, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, and cell phones
Be easily distracted by unrelated thoughts or stimuli
Be forgetful in daily activities, such as chores, errands, returning calls, and keeping appointments

Hyperactivity-impulsivity

Fidget and squirm in their seats
Leave their seats in situations when staying seated is expected, such as in the classroom or the office
Run or dash around or climb in situations where it is inappropriate or, in teens and adults, often feel restless
Be unable to play or engage in hobbies quietly
Be constantly in motion or “on the go,” or act as if “driven by a motor”
Talk nonstop
Blurt out an answer before a question has been completed, finish other people’s sentences, or speak without waiting for a turn in a conversation
Have trouble waiting for his or her turn
Interrupt or intrude on others, for example in conversations, games, or activities