The bare facts about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

- I have adhd. It's a learning disability. While sometimes I love myself the way I am, (including my adhd and all the creativity and personality I have from it) some people don't think it exists and sometimes it makes me feel inferior and stupid. I'm just trying to get the info out, because it sucks to be misunderstood. So here are some common facts about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder...


Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a real mental health problem. This has been confirmed by more than 40 years of scientific research. In fact, ADHD affects approximately 3% to 7% of school-aged children and approximately 4% of adults.

Symptoms
The symptoms of ADHD fall into three groups:

• Lack of attention (inattentiveness)
• Hyperactivity
• Impulsive behavior (impulsivity)

Some children with ADHD primarily have the inattentive type. Others may have a combination of types. Those with the inattentive type are less disruptive and are more likely to not be diagnosed with ADHD.
Inattentive symptoms

1. Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork
2. Has difficulty keeping attention during tasks or play
3. Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
4. Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace
5. Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
6. Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork)
7. Often loses toys, assignments, pencils, books, or tools needed for tasks or activities
8. Is easily distracted
9. Is often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity symptoms:

1. Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
2. Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected
3. Runs about or climbs in inappropriate situations
4. Has difficulty playing quietly
5. Is often "on the go," acts as if "driven by a motor," talks excessively

Impulsivity symptoms:

1. Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
2. Has difficulty awaiting turn
3. Interrupts or intrudes on others (butts into conversations or games)

....So now you know a bit of what my life is like. (And anyone who has ADHD)