ADHD is short for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity disorder. It is defined by the National Institute of Mental Health as being a brain disorder marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. It can interfere with the functions or development in the brain.
It affects children and teens, and can continue well into adulthood. ADHD is arguably one of, if not the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder among children and teens ages 4-17. Controlling impulses and not being able to calm themselves down are big factors in children with ADHD, along with the inability to focus. The listed behaviors can interfere with one's school and home life.
According to medical statistics, ADHD is more prevalent in boys rather than girls and is typically discovered during early school years, or when issues of problems paying attention pop up.
As mentioned above, inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity are key factors of ADHD. Some will only deal with one of these behaviors while others can experience both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Statistically, most of the children diagnosed have the combined type of ADHD. While in life, it is normal to have some issues with inattention, not being able to focus and impulse control, but in people dealing with ADHD the symptoms are more severe, happen more frequently and interfere with life's daily activities.
According to webmd.com, here are the symptoms of Inattention, Hyperactivity and Impulsivity:
Inattention
Is easily distracted
Doesn't follow directions or finish tasks
Won't appear to be listening
Doesn't pay attention and makes careless mistakes
Forgets daily activities
Can't organize daily tasks
Doesn't like doing things that require one to sit still
Can often loose items
Tends to daydream
Hyperactivity
Squirms, fidgets, or bounces around often while sitting
Doesn't stay seated
Difficulty playing quietly
Talks excessively
Always "on the go"
Always moving, like running or climbing on things (In teens and adults it can be referred to as restlessness)
