ADHD is a neurological condition defined by a consistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactive impulsivity that interferes with daily functioning in at least two settings – for example, at school and at home. It impacts children and adults, boys and girls, and people of all backgrounds. The symptoms above represent the broad range of symptoms associated with ADHD, though symptoms differ with each subtype. ADHD comprises three subtypes:
- inattentive type
- hyperactive or impulsive type
- combined type
ADHD symptoms in children differ from symptoms of adult ADHD. But this is universal: If you recognize yourself or your loved one in the following ADHD symptoms, and those symptoms persistently disrupt life in multiple settings, contact your medical health-care professional for a diagnosis and bring the results of the ADHD symptom tests below with you for review.
ADHD Symptoms: Inattentive ADD Checklist
- Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities
- Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
- Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
- Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) or failure to understand instructions)
- Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
- Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)
- Loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools)
- Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
- Forgetful in daily activities
ADHD Symptoms: Hyperactive and Impulsive ADHD Checklist
- Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
- Leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected
- Runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate (may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness in adults)
- Has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
- Appears “on the go” or acts as if “driven by a motor”
- Talks excessively
- Blurts out the answers before the questions have been completed
- Has difficulty awaiting turn
- Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)