Common Signs of ADHD in Children

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, commonly known as ADHD, impacts 9.4% of children. That’s about 6.1 million kids!

Untreated ADHD can greatly influence your child’s success in school. That's why it's important to have your child evaluated for ADHD if they show symptoms. Dr. Hadi Estakhri at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health can treat ADHD with a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to help your child thrive.

Not sure if your child is demonstrating signs of ADHD? We created this guide to highlight some of the most common signs of ADHD.

Signs of ADHD

Not all children experience the same types of symptoms. In fact, two people could both have ADHD but with different symptoms. There are three main categories of symptoms when it comes to ADHD: impulsivity symptoms, hyperactivity symptoms, and inattentive symptoms.

Inattention 

Does your child have a hard time paying attention? In general, children typically have shorter attention spans than adults. However, if you notice any of the following, it may be time to consider the possibility of an ADHD diagnosis:

• Your child doesn’t seem to listen when you or others talk to him or her
• Your child has a hard time focusing on tasks 
• Your child is easily distracted or easily loses focus
• Your child struggles with disorganization
• Your child has poor time management 
• Your child struggles to complete tasks, including projects and homework

Lack of attention can impact your child’s school performance, but the right treatment can improve their ability to focus. 

Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is one of the most well-known symptoms of ADHD. The truth is, not all children with ADHD are hyperactive. In fact, if a child doesn’t have hyperactive symptoms, he may have a type of ADHD called Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD).

Children who have hyperactivity symptoms may struggle with:

• The inability to sit still 
• Fidgeting
• Inappropriate movements (e.g. running around when it’s time to be quiet or relaxed)

Researchers found that outdoor activities can help lessen the severity of these symptoms. Playing outside can give your child a healthy outlet for his energy.

Impulsivity 

Impulsivity is another type of symptom. In children, it can present in many different ways, such as:

• Blurting out answers in school without raising his or her hand
• Frequently interrupting adults and peers alike
• Difficulty waiting for his or her turn while playing games

Children with ADHD can also struggle to manage intense emotions. For example, a child may be eager for his turn while playing a game, and react strongly when he has to wait.

The ADHD treatment that’s right for your child

ADHD can create unique struggles. But, it’s important to remember the right treatment can help your child gain the strategies needed to thrive. 

At Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health, we offer a variety of ways to help children cope with ADHD. To learn more about ADHD treatment for children, call our Newport Beach, California clinic at 949-258-7135. You can also visit our website to schedule an appointment.