diets heavy in food additives, which might exacerbate symptoms diets low in omega-3 fatty acids maternal smoking and drinking complications at birth or low birth weight environmental exposure to toxins or lead brain injury

Teachers and school administrators may alert you to problems in your child that may not be identifiable at home. Symptom presentation must be recognizable within the first 12 years of life and kids with ADHD must experience at least six symptoms, such as:[5] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Mental Health Informational website from U. S. government focused on the understanding and treatment of mental illness. Go to source frequently forgetting things fidgeting or squirming being easily distracted losing books, toys, or other possessions act impatiently frequently interrupt others’ conversations talk/sing/hum too much demonstrate trouble following instructions require extensive instructions to begin tasks having trouble taking turns run around a lot constantly switch back and forth between tasks

Predominantly inattentive type. Children with this type are easily distracted, forgetful, lose things often, do not seem to be listening when spoken to, avoid or dislike tasks that require longer spans of concentration or mental effort, and are disorganized for the past 6 months. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type. Children with this type talk excessively, fidget and squirm when seated, seem to always on the go, blurt out answers to questions, have difficulty awaiting their turn, and demonstrates restlessness by climbing or jumping at times when it’s inappropriate to do so for the past 6 months. Combined type. This ADHD subtype is diagnosed when both the criteria for inattentive type and hyperactive-impulsive type are equally present for the past 6 months.

difficulty finishing tasks problems maintaining focus or concentration forgetfulness (e. g. meetings, deadlines, etc. ) disorganization procrastination tardiness

Such adults might easily blow up at others or sink into a depressive state. Adults with ADHD may also self-medicate their mood disturbances using alcohol or drugs, making substance abuse another common co-morbid problem. People with ADHD may also have low self-esteem and feel a lot of shame. [10] X Expert Source George Sachs, PsyDLicensed Psychologist Expert Interview. 5 March 2021.

Parents, siblings, friends, or partners may feel ignored or undervalued due to your constant talking over them, forgetting important engagements, and becoming easily bored in conversation. Plus, adults may exhibit impulsivity that results in them making poor decisions such as cheating, gambling, or abusing drugs or alcohol that interferes with their relationships.

Your doctor may be able to diagnose ADHD based on previous experience with the disorder. However, most physicians will refer you for further assessment with a psychologist or psychiatrist.

If you want a thorough diagnosis also have a hearing and vision test, a brain scan and an EEG. These tests help rule out other possible problems that may seem to be ADHD.

In some cases, in addition to self-report questionnaires, you might also be requested to complete a battery of psychological assessments. Such tests are designed to comprehensively examine your symptoms, personality, and any other co-existing conditions you might have.

Always discuss any treatment approaches with your doctor before starting a new regimen or stopping an existing one.