So any mom of an ADHD child has heard other parents ‘understand’ what they are going through. They can relate because their little Johnny or Jane has had a moment of not listening, being hyper or not finishing cleaning their room when asked. I’m not a Doctor, but I know that is NOT ADHD! An ADHD diagnosis requires observations by multiple people in your child’s life (parent, teacher, Doctor, etc.) and the symptoms have to persist for 6 months or more.
In case you are wondering if your child may have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), well if they show some (6 or more) of these common symptoms (my son had them ALL!) persistently over 6 months they too may score 100% on the ADHD test:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity behaviors
- Disorganized
- Lacking focus
- Pays little attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork (messy homework)
- Has trouble staying on topic while talking, not listening to others, and not following social rules
- Forgetful in daily activities (leaving backpack on the school bus)
- Often misplaces items that are required for tasks or activities
- Easily distracted by external stimuli/ trivial noises usually ignored by others.
- Fails to finish a task or does not follow through on instructions
- Seems to not listen when spoken to directly
- Fidget and squirm when seated.
- Gets up frequently to walk or run around
- Run or climb a lot when it’s not appropriate.
- Has trouble playing quietly
- Constantly in motion / Always “on the go”
- Excessive talking
- Has trouble participating in group activities that call for them to sit/remain still like story time.
- Impatience
- Having a hard time waiting to talk or react
- Have a hard time waiting for their turn
- Blurts out answers before someone finishes asking a question or is talking
- Frequently interrupt or intrude on others
- Start conversations at inappropriate times
- Inappropiate emotional reactions to situations
- Either avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to partake in tasks that require substantial effort (like homework).
It is very important to note that this story is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health regime, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Do you found any ADHD symptoms not listed? Let us know.