Overview
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person regulates attention, impulses, and activity. It is usually identified in childhood, but many adults are diagnosed later, particularly when demands increase or a child receives a diagnosis. ADHD is not a lack of intelligence or motivation, and it is not caused by parenting or discipline. Diagnosis requires a careful history and a formal evaluation — online quizzes cannot diagnose it.
Common signs and symptoms
These are commonly reported experiences. Having some of them does not mean you have this condition, and not having them does not mean you do not.
- Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks that are not engaging
- Frequently losing items, forgetting appointments, or missing deadlines
- Restlessness, or difficulty staying seated or still
- Interrupting others or finishing their sentences
- Starting many tasks without finishing them
- Long-standing patterns of disorganization affecting work or school
When professional evaluation may help
- Attention or organization problems are affecting work, school, or relationships
- You have been told repeatedly that you are not living up to your potential
- A child is struggling academically or socially in ways that suggest attention difficulties
- Symptoms have been present since childhood
- You are considering medication and want a proper evaluation first
General treatment approaches
Not every approach is appropriate for every person. Treatment decisions should be individualized and made with a qualified professional.
- Comprehensive evaluation
- An evaluation reviews history, development, symptoms across settings, and other possible explanations. It may involve rating scales, interviews, and information from people who know you well.
- Medication
- Stimulant and non-stimulant medications are used for ADHD. They are prescribed and monitored by a qualified prescriber, and decisions depend on health history and side effects.
- Behavioral and skills-based therapy
- Behavioral therapy, coaching, and organizational skills training help build routines and reduce the daily impact of symptoms.
- School and workplace accommodations
- Accommodations and structured supports can reduce the mismatch between symptoms and environmental demands.
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