Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder featuring a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.

It begins and is usually first diagnosed in childhood, often lasting into adulthood. It is common for some of these traits to be present in every single person, but in ADHD, these symptoms can cause significant impairment at home, in school, or with friends.

According to the DSM-5, symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

To be diagnosed, children must meet the diagnostic criteria of at least 6 symptoms, while adults have to meet at least 5 of the following symptoms:

Inattention symptoms:

1. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or during other activities (e.g., overlooks or misses details, work is inaccurate).
2.  Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities (e.g., has difficulty remaining focused during lectures, conversations, or lengthy reading).
3. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly (e.g., mind seems elsewhere, even in the absence of any obvious distraction).
4. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (e.g., starts tasks but quickly loses focus and is easily side-tracked).
5. Often has difficulty organising tasks and activities (e.g., difficulty managing sequential tasks; difficulty keeping materials and belongings in order; messy, disorganised work; has poor time management; fails to meet deadlines).
6. Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (e.g., schoolwork or homework; for older adolescents and adults, preparing reports, completing forms, reviewing lengthy papers).
7. Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, mobile telephones).
8.  Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli (for older adolescents and adults, may include unrelated thoughts).
9. Is often forgetful in daily activities (e.g., doing chores, running errands; for older adolescents and adults, returning calls, paying bills, and keeping appointments).

Hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms:

1. Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet or squirms in their seat.
2. Often leaves a seat in situations when remaining seated is expected (e.g., leaves his or her place in the classroom, in the office or other workplace, or in other situations that require remaining in place).
3. Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate. (Note: In adolescents or adults, they may be limited to feeling restless.)
4. Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
5. Is often “on the go,” acting as if “driven by a motor” (e.g., is unable to be or uncomfortable being still for an extended time, as in restaurants, meetings; may be experienced by others as being restless or difficult to keep up with).
6. Often talks excessively.
7. Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed (e.g., completes people’s sentences; cannot wait for a turn in conversation).
8.  Often has difficulty waiting his or her turn (e.g., while waiting in line).
9. Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations, games, or activities; may start using other people’s things without asking or receiving permission; for adolescents and adults, may intrude into or take over what others are doing).

To be assessed for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, whether for an adult or a child, several steps need to be taken.

Now, you will read what this type of assessment looks like in Psychology Blossom.

Exercise can provide several benefits for individuals with ADHD by addressing both physical and cognitive aspects of the condition.

These benefits include improved focus and attention, reduced hyperactivity and impulsivity, reduced stress and anxiety levels, improved mood, and better executive functioning skills.

It is important for individuals who have ADHD to find activities that are enjoyable and sustainable so they can stay engaged and motivated to incorporate these activities and exercises into their routines.

Managing sleep hygiene is crucial due to sleep difficulties being common among individuals with the condition. It is therefore important for individuals to establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a relaxing wind down sleep routine, limit screen time and use before bed, and manage any stimulant medication.

By implementing these strategies and prioritising healthy sleep habits, individuals with ADHD can improve their overall sleep quality and better manage symptoms during the day.

Technology can have both positive and negative effects on individuals with ADHD depending on how it is used and managed.

The positive aspects of technology include individuals using productivity apps and calendars to better manage their time and schedules, using mindfulness apps to calm their hyperactivity symptoms, and social media connections (for e.g., forums for individuals who have ADHD symptoms).

Conversely, the negative aspects of technology involve digital distractions, information overload, screen time hindering sleep hygiene, and potential impulsive risk-taking behaviours.

Therefore, overall, the impact of technology depends on how it is integrated into daily life and managed.