Symptoms of ADHD are divided into two main categories: Inattention and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity. A diagnosis of ADHD is based on the number, persistence, and history of ADHD behaviors, and the degree to which they impede a child’s performance in more than one setting.

Inattention

A child may be exhibiting symptoms of Inattention if he or she often:

  • ignores details; makes careless mistakes
  • has trouble sustaining attention in work or play
  • does not seem to listen when directly addressed
  • does not follow through on instructions; fails to finish
  • has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
  • avoids activities that require a sustained mental effort
  • loses things he or she needs
  • gets distracted by extraneous noise and activities
  • is forgetful in daily activities

Because all children behave in these ways at times, only a professional can diagnose a child with ADHD.

Hyperactivity/Impulsivity

Hyperactivity

A child may be exhibiting symptoms of Hyperactivity if he or she often:

  • fidgets or squirms
  • has to get up from seat
  • runs or climbs when he or she shouldn’t
  • has difficulty with quiet leisure activities
  • is on the go, as if driven by a motor
  • talks excessively

Impulsivity

A child may be exhibiting symptoms of Impulsivity if he or she often:

  • blurts out answers before questions have been completed
  • has difficulty waiting his or her turn
  • interrupts or intrudes on others

Because all children behave in these ways at times, only a professional can diagnose a child with ADHD.