ADHD Symptoms: Know the 3 Main Signs

ADHD Symptoms: Know the 3 Main Signs

On numerous occasions in your life, you have likely come into contact with a human being who struggles with the effects of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It could be the person bagging your groceries. Or your brother. Your child. Maybe even yourself.

After all, people are four times more likely to inherit ADHD if a relative has been diagnosed as well.

The exact cause of ADHD is unknown. Studies show it can be triggered by anything from genetics to low birth weight to a lack of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.

According to ADD.org, “ADHD is a highly genetic, brain-based syndrome that has to do with the regulation of a particular set of brain functions and related behaviors.” As ADHD symptoms persist, essential functions, such as concentration, memory, and attention, can become compromised by this neurological disorder.

A meta-analysis of 175 worldwide research studies on the topic of ADHD found that an estimated 7.2% of children under 18 are diagnosed with this disorder. Meanwhile, an estimated 3.4% of adults also have the same diagnosis. While the disorder can be diagnosed in both children and adults, how each person reacts to ADHD symptoms is unique.

What Are ADHD Symptoms?

While ADHD affects each person differently, there are three main signs:  inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. To understand these signs, it is important to be aware of some of the most common symptoms that many people diagnosed with this disorder typically report.

Here are some common ADHD symptoms:

  • woman with ADHDAnxiety
  • Depression
  • Inability to control behavior
  • Constant fatigue
  • Low self esteem
  • Lack or organizational skills
  • Unable to complete tasks at hand
  • Shortness of temper
  • Poor concentration
  • Restlessness

Keep in mind that these are blanket symptoms that anyone at any point in their lives can feel, not just those who could potentially have ADHD. However, if these symptoms persist over a six month period, you should consult a physician for a proper diagnosis.

Tell-Tale Signs of ADHD

Inattention

Inattention is that constant feeling of distraction. The person’s attention span is not very focused, and this can lead to problems in the classroom or the workplace. Inattention can be defined by a myriad of symptoms, such as:

  • Inactive listening
  • Lack of focus on tasks
  • man with ADHD unable to focus on a taskMind continues to wander when playing a game
  • Inability to follow instructions
  • Unable to finish assignments
  • Struggles with organizational skills
  • Making careless mistakes
  • Forgetfulness when it comes to daily routines
  • Misplacing items
  • Reluctance to partake in anything that requires too much thought
  • Easily distracted by other things that do not require immediate attention

Symptoms of inattention can happen to anyone at any time, and may not necessarily mean you have ADHD. If these symptoms persist or worsen over a six month period and begin to have a negative effect on your life, consult a physician.

Upon first sign of ADHD symptoms, there may be a holistic approach to help curb negative side effects. Natural supplements, such as Focusene, have been shown to alleviate some of the symptoms of inattention. Inattention is often a result of lack of dopamine and acetylcholine. These are neurotransmitters that signal the brain to focus and are responsible for short-term memory and recollection. Products like Focusene contain essential building-block proteins necessary for the release of dopamine and acetylcholine.

Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is a term often used to describe children who exhibit ADHD symptoms. It eludes to increased movements and impulsive behaviors. Here are a few common tell-tale symptoms of hyperactivity:

  • Fidgety hands and feet
  • Squirming while sitting
  • Constantly changing seating position; crossing and uncrossing legs
  • Restlessness
  • Jitteriness at bedtime
  • Running around in areas and climbing on top of things in inappropriate situations
  • Excessively loud during play activities

Impulsiveness

Impulsiveness is when someone performs an action or says something without much thought. Actions are typically a result of involuntary emotional responses. Symptoms of impulsive behavior include:

  • impulsive boy with ADHD symptomsLack of patience when waiting one’s turn
  • Blurting out answers before anyone else has an opportunity
  • Butting into conversations or activities not invited to
  • Belief that you are multitasking and making progress by doing so, when in reality nothing is being accomplished

Does My Loved One or I Have ADHD?

If you or your child have been showcasing the majority of the symptoms listed above, it does not necessarily mean either of you have ADHD. ADHD symptoms are commonly misdiagnosed. In fact, one million children have been misdiagnosed with ADHD.

The first step to get the disorder properly treated is to recognize the symptoms yourself. Sure, you may have some bouts with restlessness and low self-esteem, but it’s when these ADHD-like symptoms continue to persist and manifest into your daily routines. This can signal true ADHD.

If you suffer from inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsiveness continuously over a six month period, consult a doctor for a potential diagnosis.

Have you or a loved one been struggling with any of the above ADHD symptoms? Please feel free to leave us a comment below and tell us how you manage these symptoms.

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