Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms include difficulty with focus, trouble managing behavior, and challenges with emotional regulation. ADHD can impact learning, social skills, and confidence. There are three types of ADHD:
1. Predominantly Inattentive Type: children with this type of ADHD may daydream a lot, have a hard time finishing tasks, struggle to pay attention. Children are often also distracted and forgetful.
2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: children with this type of ADHD have a hard time sitting still and they may fidget. They often talk a lot, interrupt others, act without thinking, and struggle to wait their turn. These children often struggle with emotional regulation.
3. Combined Type: children with combined type have both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms.
An evaluation is recommended if your child exhibits these symptoms and is struggling at home, school, and/or in other daily activities. Children who are depressed, anxious, or have experienced trauma can also exhibit symptoms that look like ADHD. A comprehensive evaluation will help you to understand whether these symptoms are the result of ADHD, or another mental health condition.