“I feel like my thoughts are scrambling around in my head, and I can’t focus on any of them.”
“It’s like my thoughts don’t translate.”
“I feel anxious and just can’t physically relax.”
“On bad days, my ADHD leaves me alone in a dark, isolated place.”
These are just some ways that adults who live with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) describe this chronic condition. Imagine what it’s like to be a child who cannot insightfully articulate their feelings or explain why they struggle to follow directions, sit when told, or act out with erratic, destructive behavior. For parents of the 6.1 million children with ADHD, understanding their child’s behavior before receiving an ADHD diagnosis and a treatment plan from their doctor can be a confusing and worrisome time.
To show support to parents, friends, family members, and teachers who care for students with ADHD, and the millions living, learning, and working with ADHD every day, October is National ADHD Awareness Month. If you think your child may be exhibiting early signs of this condition, here’s what you need to know.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders impacting childhood. Typically diagnosed in childhood, it often lasts through adulthood. Children with ADHD may struggle to focus, control impulsive behavior, or seem to be highly busy or active.
There are three primary types of ADHD:
Since ADHD is a chronic, often lifelong condition, an individual’s symptoms may evolve.
Since ADHD is typically diagnosed in children, parents and teachers are most likely first to question a child’s behavior, making them a young person’s best ally in an early and impactful diagnosis. You might identify the following symptoms in a child with ADHD:
If at any time during your child’s early adolescence, you believe that they might be exhibiting signs of ADHD, talk to your pediatrician. If you are an adult who struggles with the symptoms listed above but was not diagnosed as a child, talk to your primary care provider. It is never too late to understand your health better and get help managing behaviors that may cause you to struggle with daily activities.