ADHD

Attention Deficit & Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a chronic condition characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. It often develops in childhood and persists into adulthood.

An estimated 14.5% of children between the ages 2–17 meet the criteria for severe ADHD, and approximately 3.4% of adults experience disordered attention (CHADD.org). 
 

Symptoms:
While some behaviors associated with ADHD are normal, someone with ADHD will have trouble controlling these behaviors and will show them much more frequently and for longer than 6 months.
 

Signs of inattention include:

• Becoming easily distracted, and jumping from activity to activity

• Becoming bored with a task quickly

• Difficulty focusing attention or completing a single task or activity

• Trouble completing or turning in homework assignments

• Losing things such as school supplies or toys

• Not listening or paying attention when spoken to

• Daydreaming or wandering with lack of motivation

• Difficulty processing information quickly

• Struggling to follow directions

 

Signs of hyperactivity include:

• Fidgeting and squirming, having trouble sitting still

• Non-stop talking

• Touching or playing with everything

• Difficulty doing quiet tasks or activities

 

Signs of impulsivity include:

• Impatience

• Acting without regard for consequences, blurting things out

• Difficulty taking turns, waiting or sharing

• Interrupting others

 

Treatment:
First Steps specializes in the treatment of ADHD. ADHD can be managed and treated via:

• Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused strategies

• Self-management strategies, including learning relaxation techniques to enhance focus and motivation

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If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255). Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they text to 741741.