Symptoms of ADHD

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition. According to DSM-5 and ICD-11, the diagnostic similarities emphasize:

• Symptoms must persist for at least 6 months, beyond what is typical for age.
• Symptoms must begin before age 12.
• Symptoms must occur in two or more settings (home, school, work).
• Symptoms must cause significant impairment.
• Number of symptoms required:

• • Children: at least 6 symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity.
  • Adults: at least 5 symptoms.

DSM-5 classifies ADHD into three presentations:

1. Predominantly Inattentive Presentation

• At least 6 symptoms (5 for adults) of inattention lasting ≥6 months.

2. Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation

• At least 6 symptoms (5 for adults) of hyperactivity/impulsivity lasting ≥6 months.

3. Combined Presentation

• Criteria met for both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.

Core Symptom Categories

I. Inattention

• Careless mistakes due to lack of attention to detail.
• Difficulty sustaining focus in tasks or play.
• Appears not to listen when spoken to directly.
• Trouble completing tasks or organizing activities.
• Avoids tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
• Frequently loses items needed for tasks.
• Easily distracted by external stimuli.
• Forgetfulness in daily routines.

II. Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is most visible in childhood but may persist as inner restlessness in adulthood. Common signs include:

• Fidgeting, tapping hands or feet, difficulty staying seated.
• Running or climbing in inappropriate situations (children); pacing or restlessness (adults).
• Inability to engage quietly in leisure activities.
• Talking excessively, difficulty controlling verbal output.
• Inner restlessness or inability to relax, especially in adults.

III. Impulsivity

Impulsivity often leads to interpersonal and functional difficulties. Common signs include:

• Difficulty waiting for turns in games or queues.
• Interrupting or intruding on conversations.
• Acting without considering consequences, impulsive decisions.
• Emotional impulsivity, such as sudden anger or frustration.
• Risk-taking behaviors, including reckless driving or impulsive spending.

Functional Impact

• Childhood: academic underachievement, teacher conflict, peer difficulties.
• Adolescence: school adaptation challenges, low self-esteem, behavioral issues.
• Adulthood: reduced work efficiency, interpersonal difficulties, poor life and financial management.

Evidence shows ADHD symptoms often persist into adulthood if untreated, affecting multiple domains of life).