Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is one of the most common psychiatric disorders in children, affecting 3 to 5 percent of children worldwide. However, contrary to popular belief, ADHD can continue into the teenage years. For about 30 percent of those teens, ADHD will continue into adulthood. ADHD symptoms vary from one age group to another, although common symptoms exist for sufferers of all ages.
Inattention
One of the key symptoms of ADHD is inattention. People with ADHD have trouble paying attention and concentrating, get distracted easily, have trouble organizing and prioritizing, and tend to be forgetful and lose things. This can be problematic for all ages of ADHD sufferers, resulting in problems with school performance as well as family and work responsibilities. Because they have difficulty attending, many people with ADHD avoid tasks that are mentally challenging; require extended focus; or are difficult to complete because calculating, organizing, and prioritizing are required.
Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is common for many children with ADHD, though many become less hyperactive as teens. In both children and adults, hyperactivity can manifest as restlessness; being constantly on the go; being fidgety and unable to sit still; getting bored easily; craving excitement; and excessive talking. In teenagers and adults, hyperactivity can lead to disciplinary problems, skipping school, getting into fights, risk-taking and substance abuse.
Impulsiveness
Impulsiveness can lead to social difficulties. School-aged sufferers may have difficulty waiting in line or taking turns; may blurt out answers or talk at inappropriate times; and may interrupt or intrude on others. Impulsive youngsters are also more accident-prone, because they often act before thinking.
Impulsive teenagers and adults with ADHD might be rude or make inappropriate remarks; have trouble adhering to socially acceptable behavior; be aggressive or violent; abuse alcohol and drugs; and engage in risky sexual behavior.
References
- Helpguide.org: Adult ADD/ADHD: Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment
- Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder: Understanding AD/HD: Symptoms
- Attention Deficit Disorder Resources: What is ADHD?
- Consumer Reports Health: What Are the Symptoms of ADHD?
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Facts about ADHD
