Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. It usually begins in childhood and may persist into adulthood. ADHD symptoms vary by individual and age, but they generally affect learning, social interactions, and work ability.
1. Main Symptom Categories
The core symptoms of ADHD fall into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
① Inattention symptoms
● Easily distracted, losing focus during homework or tasks due to external stimuli.
● Difficulty sustaining attention, such as daydreaming in class or not paying attention when listening.
● Poor organizational skills, disorganized task planning, often forgetting important matters.
● Frequently losing items, such as keys, books, or stationery.
● Forgetfulness, often forgetting appointments or daily tasks.
② Hyperactivity symptoms
● Restlessness, often fidgeting or playing with hands and feet.
● Difficulty staying seated, frequently leaving the seat in class or meetings.
● Excessive energy, constantly active as if “driven by a motor.”
● Talking excessively, unable to control speech even in inappropriate situations.
③ Impulsivity symptoms
● Frequently interrupting others, such as cutting into conversations or disrupting dialogue.
● Difficulty waiting, showing impatience when queuing or waiting for their turn to speak.
● Blurting out answers, responding hastily before hearing the entire question.
● Acting impulsively without considering consequences, such as impulsive shopping or making sudden unreasonable decisions.
2. Symptoms Across Different Age Groups
① Childhood (Preschool and Primary School)
● Inattentive in class, frequently walking around.
● Learning difficulties, often forgetting homework.
● Emotional instability, prone to tantrums.
② Adolescence (Middle School)
● Poor organizational and time management skills, procrastination on assignments.
● Social difficulties, impulsive behaviors may affect interpersonal relationships.
● Low self-esteem, possibly accompanied by anxiety or depression.
③ Adulthood
● Low work efficiency, prone to procrastination.
● Difficulty managing finances, impulsive spending or forgetting to pay bills.
● Relationship problems, impulsive words or actions may affect intimate or social relationships.
4. Impact of ADHD
ADHD patients often also experience anxiety disorders, depression, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), learning disabilities, and sleep problems. Without timely intervention, symptoms may affect academic performance, work, and interpersonal relationships.
Experts at United Life International Medical Center state that ADHD symptoms are diverse and wide-ranging. If you or your child exhibit related symptoms, seek professional consultation promptly for effective diagnosis and intervention to improve quality of life.