ADHD
Signs & Symptoms OF ADHD
The 3 core symptoms of ADHD are:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
Inattentive Symptoms
Six or more of the following symptoms have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is inconsistent with developmental level and that negatively impacts directly on social and academic/ occupational activities:
- Difficulty paying attention to details/makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or during activities
- Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or activities
- Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
- Often unable to follow through on tasks, instructions and fails to finish schoolwork or duties
- Trouble with organization – organizing tasks and activities such as school work and assignments
- Avoids tasks requiring sustained mental effort; avoids or dislikes engaging in tasks that require sustained attention
- Often loses things necessary for tasks and/or activities
- Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
- Forgetful in daily activities
Hyperactive/Impulsive Symptoms
Six or more of the following symptoms have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is inconsistent with developmental level and that negatively impacts directly on social and academic/ occupational activities:
- Fidgets/squirms, or taps hands or feet in seat
- Has trouble staying seated; often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected
- Excessive running/climbing or restlessness in situations where it is inappropriate
- Trouble with quiet activities; often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly
- Needs to be "on the go"; often “on the go” or acting as if “driven by a motor”
- Often talks too much; talks excessively
- Blurts out answers, often before the question can be completed
- Difficulty awaiting turn
- Interrupts conversations or intrudes on others
DSM-5: Diagnostic Criteria, American Psychiatric Association, Washington D.C., 2013.
What if I think I have ADHD?
Speak with your academic advisor! They will work with you to get a referral to either Jim Maurer, Program Manager for Mental Health or LeAnn Bird, Learning Specialist. They may then refer you for additional testing.
