Hyperactivity can present itself in various degrees, from enhancing to harmless to extremely impairing. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may be diagnosed when an individual demonstrates at least six hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms for more than six months. Some people instead experience inattention symptoms only. This results in a diagnosis of ADHD, Predominately Inattentive Type (ADHD-PI), which used to be called ADD.
Fidgeting or Getting Up
Hyperactive individuals often fail to sit still, according to ADHDnews.com. In adults, this may take the form of incessant leg tapping or shifting in their chairs. Children may show their hyperactivity more obviously, making large and awkward movements when forced to stay in one place or getting up from their seats repeatedly. The child who constantly spins around during a restaurant dinner is showing one symptom of hyperactivity, for example. As with all of the symptoms listed here, fidgeting is only considered a concern if it accompanies other hyperactivity symptoms, is shown in more than one setting, is age-inappropriate, and lasts for many months, says the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
Never Stopping
Hyperactivity often expresses itself as an incessant need for movement, according to the NIMH. People with hyperactivity never stop in one place for too long, whether it be multiple areas in a schoolroom or multiple rooms at home. They may also try to do multiple tasks at once, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Running or Climbing Inappropriately
Hyperactive adults are less likely to show inappropriate running or climbing, but hyperactive children may. All children engage in running and climbing, and no child should be expected to “stay calm” at all moments of every day. When a child has already had a good deal of exercise and is in a setting where running and climbing are clearly prohibited but cannot stop themselves, hyperactivity may be suspected.
Trouble with Quiet Activities
Hyperactive children tend to engage in loud, expressive play. They tend to have difficulty doing quiet play activities, such as reading or playing with a dollhouse, reports ADHDnews.com. Adults with hyperactivity show this same symptom in a corresponding way in their age-appropriate activities. For example, they may find it difficult to hold a desk job or may find household tasks like bill paying to be unbearable.
Talking Too Much
Another symptom of hyperactivity is excessive talking, says the NIMH. This talking may be rapid, animated, and lengthy. When talking to someone with this symptom, you may find it difficult to “get a word in edgewise.” They often overlook natural breaking points in conversations and fail to attend to social cues that a conversation should be concluding.
