This is week 4 of a 5-part series that I’m doing on some of the most common mental health conditions. Past articles in the series include:
Today’s post is about ADHD, which has three types and stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
ADHD, predominantly inattentive presentation (formerly known as ADD)
This type of ADHD includes the following symptoms (lasting at least 6 months):
- Struggles paying attention, as evidenced by frequent careless mistakes.
- Short attention span in work, school, or social tasks.
- Zoning out during conversations (mind is elsewhere/ daydreaming).
- Struggles with following instructions or completing tasks.
- Disorganization and poor time management.
- Avoidance of tasks that require prolonged periods of focus.
- Often forgetful and loses things often.
- Easily distracted by unrelated thoughts, things, sounds, or situations.
ADHD, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation
This type of ADHD includes the following symptoms (lasting at least 6 months):
- Restlessness, fidgeting, or can’t sit still.
- Unable to complete tasks quietly and efficiently.
- Always physically “on the go,” which can look frantic. (There’s a high correlation between ADHD and anxiety)
- Rapid or excessive speech.
- Struggles with patience, interrupts others, or struggles with thinking before acting.
ADHD, combined presentation
This type of ADHD includes symptoms from the aforementioned inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive types.
Conclusion
ADHD can be further specified based on severity (mild, moderate, or severe). These specifiers are based on the frequency, intensity, and duration of symptoms. Only a trained physician, psychologist, or therapist can diagnose ADHD based on the criteria in the DSM 5 (the big book of mental health disorders). Treatments for ADHD include school and workplace accommodations, medication, and therapy.
Still have questions? Leave me a comment and I’ll be happy to continue the conversation.
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