ADHD

 

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are terms used interchangeably. About 5% of adults have ADHD and it occurs in men, women and children. ADHD is not something that is outgrown.

 

The test below may help you determine if you have symptoms of ADHD.

 

1. Inattention: look for six or more of these symptoms of inattention for children up to age 16, or five or more symptoms for adolescents 17 and older and adults. Additionally, symptoms of inattention must have been present for at least 6 months and they are inappropriate for the developmental level:

 

• Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities.
• Often has trouble holding attention on tasks or play activities.
• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
• Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (e.g., loses focus, side-tracked).
• Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities.
• Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
• Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g. school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, mobile telephones).
• Is often easily distracted
• Is often forgetful in daily activities.

 

2. Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: look for six or more symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity for children up to age 16, or look for five or more symptoms for adolescents 17 and older and adults; if symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months (to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for the person’s developmental level) include:

 

• Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.
• Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
• Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may be limited to feeling restless).
• Often unable to play quietly or take part in leisure activities.
• Is often "on the go" acting as if "driven by a motor".
• Often talks excessively.
• Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.
• Often has trouble waiting his or her turn.
• Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)

 

In addition, the following conditions must be met:

 

• Several inattentive or hyperactive and impulsive symptoms were present before the age 12 years.
• Several symptoms are present in two or more settings, (e.g., at home, school or work; with friends or relatives; in other activities).
• There is clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with, or reduce the quality of, social, school or work functioning.
• The symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder (e.g. Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dissociative Disorder or a Personality Disorder).

 

 

ADHD can have a significant social impact on patients’ lives, disrupting education, employment, finances, family life and relationships.

 

If you or someone you know suffers from symptoms of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, you may qualify for one of our NO COST research studies. Our studies offer study-related medical evaluations and study-related medication.

 

Call 1-888-STUDY-411 to speak to one of our knowledgeable, caring staff members to set up a consultation and perhaps apply for one of our research studies AT NO COST to you; or you may contact us by filling out the simple contact form below. One of our staff will call you within 24 hours.