Definition
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is characterized by developmentally inappropriate impulsivity, attention and in some cases hyperactivity.

What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurobiological disorder that is more commonly diagnosed in boys than in girls. It is the most commonly diagnosed childhood behavioral disorder affecting 3-5% of school age children.

Children with ADHD may seem less mature and responsible than their peers. They always tend to be `on the go' and often remain restless and fidgety into adulthood. Onset of symptoms is typically seen in early childhood, before the age of 7, and often persists into adulthood and pose life long challenges.

It is also common for children with ADHD to have co-occurring problems such as school failure, problems with relationships, speech and language difficulties and various other social, emotional and behavioral disorders.

Symptoms/ Warning Signs

ADHD predominantly inattentive type: 

• Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes
• Has difficulty sustaining attention
• Does not appear to listen
• Struggles to follow through on instructions
• Has difficulty with organization
• Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort
• Loses things
• Is easily distracted
• Is forgetful in daily activities

ADHD predominantly hyperactive type:

• Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in chair
• Has difficulty remaining seated
• Runs about or climbs excessively
• Has difficulty engaging in activities quietly
• Acts as if `driven by a motor'
• Talks excessively

ADHD predominantly impulsive type:

• Blurts out answers before questions have been asked
• Difficulty waiting or taking turns
• Interrupts or intrudes upon others