Understanding attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental health condition that affects both children and adults. It’s considered a chronic condition that can impact many areas of life, including school, work, relationships and self-image. Read on to learn how to spot ADHD symptoms, how it’s diagnosed and how to manage ADHD in daily life.1

What causes ADHD?

The exact cause of ADHD isn’t known. However, there are factors that may contribute to ADHD.1,2

  • Family history: ADHD may run in families among close relatives.
  • Exposure to toxins or environmental factors: Lead or other heavy metals can negatively impact brain development and function.
  • Developmental factors as a baby: If you had low birth weight, a premature birth or your mom was exposed to toxins (like alcohol, tobacco) or stress during pregnancy, you may be at higher risk.

What are ADHD symptoms?

Common ADHD symptoms include things like restlessness, difficulty focusing and impulsiveness. There are many ways ADHD presents itself. Different signs and patterns may show up depending on each person and which type of ADHD they have.1

What are the types of ADHD?

There are 3 main types of ADHD: hyperactive-impulsive, inattentive and combined. Certain symptoms and patterns help doctors know which type of ADHD you may have. It’s important to pay attention to patterns over time. You could experience different types of ADHD throughout life. Symptoms of ADHD for each type may include:1

Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD:

  • Fidgeting

  • Difficulty staying seated (at work or school)

  • Always feeling on the go

  • Blurting out answers

  • Interrupting others

  • Difficulty waiting your turn

  • Unable to do tasks quietly

  • Making quick decisions without thinking through consequences

Inattentive ADHD:

  • Difficulty focusing

  • Not paying attention to detail

  • Not completing tasks (schoolwork, chores or job duties)

  • Getting easily distracted

  • Making careless mistakes

  • Losing things (like keys, glasses or papers)

  • Forgetting daily tasks

  • Avoiding tasks that require sustained mental focus

Combined ADHD:

This is when someone shows equal symptoms of both hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive ADHD.

Keep in mind, it’s common to experience some of these things throughout your life. Just because you may not be able to focus every now and then doesn’t mean you have ADHD. To be diagnosed, children 16 years and younger must regularly experience 6 symptoms of one or both types of ADHD. For adults 17 years and older, they must experience 5 symptoms.1

How is ADHD diagnosed?

Certain conditions or treatments may look like ADHD. It’s important to get an ADHD test from a professional to know for sure what’s causing symptoms. Some conditions that may cause similar symptoms include things like learning or mood disorders, anxiety, thyroid conditions and medications. You may want to start by seeing your primary care provider (PCP) or a mental health provider. Here’s what ADHD testing may look like:1

  • Physical exam: A visit with your PCP may help rule out other health conditions.
  • Review of your medical history: This may include talking about current health issues (including symptoms) and family medical history.
  • ADHD rating scales or psychological tests: These help doctors know for sure whether or not ADHD is causing your symptoms.

How is ADHD treated?

ADHD treatments may include counseling, lifestyle changes or medications — or a combination of all 3. Treatment will be different for everyone. It’s important to have patience as you start your journey in managing symptoms. It may take time trying different options to find what works best for you.1,2

  • Psychological counseling: This may involve learning more about ADHD and skills to help manage your condition. Counseling can help you learn ways to improve time management and problem-solving skills. It can also help you learn ways to reduce impulsive behavior and find ways to control mood swings.
  • Lifestyle changes: Creating certain lifestyle habits may help you manage ADHD symptoms. These might include things like making lists, writing yourself reminders, managing stress and following a routine to help you stay organized.
  • ADHD medication: Medications may help balance brain chemicals in a way that can help reduce symptoms. Be sure to tell your doctor about any side effects right away.

ADHD FAQs

When should I see a doctor about ADHD?

If you or a family member are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, schedule a visit with a primary care provider to talk about your concerns. From there, they’ll guide you in the right direction and help you get started on next steps.

Find a doctor or behavioral therapist