ADHD signs and symptoms include inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity that affect focus, behavior, and daily functioning, often impacting school, relationships, and routines.
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopment disorders. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and can persist into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (e.g., may act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active.
Signs and Symptoms
It is common for children with ADHD to experience difficulty focusing and behaving at one time or another. However, children with ADHD do not just grow out of these behaviors. The symptoms continue persist and often cause difficulty at school, at home, or with friends.
A child with ADHD might:
● daydream a lot
● often forget or lose things
● squirm or fidget
● talk excessively and at inappropriate times
● make careless mistakes or take unnecessary risks
● have a hard time resisting temptation
● have trouble taking turns
● have difficulty getting along with others
Three Different Types of ADHD
There are three different types of ADHD, depending on which types of symptoms are most prominent:
1. Predominantly Inattentive Presentation
It is hard for the individual to organize or finish a task, to pay attention to details, or to follow instructions or conversations. The individual is easily distracted or forgets details of daily routines.
2. Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation
The individual fidgets and talks a lot. It is hard to sit still for long (e.g., for a meal or while doing homework). Younger children may run, jump or climb constantly. The individual feels restless and has trouble with impulsivity. An individual who is impulsive may interrupt others a lot, grab things from people, or speak at inappropriate times. It is hard for the individual to wait their turn or listen to directions. An individual with impulsiveness may have more accidents and injuries than others.
3. Combined Presentation
Symptoms of the above two types are equally present in the individual.
Because symptoms can change over time, the presentation may change over time as well. If you have concerns or questions about your child’s attention difficulties (ADHD) please call our office at (503) 352-0240.
Conclusion
ADHD is a complex but manageable condition that affects both children and adults in unique ways. While its symptoms—such as inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity—can create challenges in school, at home, and in social settings, early recognition and proper support can make a significant difference. Understanding the signs and the different types of ADHD is the first step toward helping individuals thrive. With the right guidance, interventions, and resources, children and adults with ADHD can learn strategies to manage their symptoms and reach their full potential.
At New Horizons Wellness Services, our team offers specialized care to support children and adults with ADHD through a variety of services, including:
● Counseling Services – Helping individuals and families develop coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and address behavioral challenges associated with ADHD.
● Occupational Therapy Services – Providing tools and techniques to improve focus, daily functioning, and independence for both children and adults with ADHD.
● Occupational Therapy for Adults – Supporting adults in managing work, personal responsibilities, and daily tasks while building skills for organization and self-regulation.
● Pediatric Occupational Therapy – Assisting children in developing attention, coordination, and self-control skills that support school success and positive social interactions.
● Social Skills Group – Creating a safe environment for children and teens with ADHD to practice communication, teamwork, and relationship-building skills.
If you suspect your child may be showing signs of ADHD, don’t hesitate to seek professional support and explore options for evaluation and care. Contact us today to learn how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ADHD symptoms change as a child grows older?
Yes. While some symptoms like hyperactivity may decrease with age, challenges with focus, impulsivity, and organization can persist into adolescence and adulthood.
How is ADHD different from normal childhood behavior?
Many children may daydream, forget things, or act impulsively at times. However, with ADHD, these behaviors are more severe, occur more often, and interfere with daily life at school, home, and in relationships.
What types of professional support are available for children with ADHD?
Children with ADHD can benefit from counseling, occupational therapy, and social skills training. These services provide strategies to improve focus, behavior regulation, and peer interactions.
Yours in Health,
New Horizons Wellness Services8880 SW Nimbus Ave Suite C.,
Beaverton, OR 97008
- https://g.page/newhws
New Horizons Wellness Services provides a true multidisciplinary approach to mental & physical health treatments for children, adults and families.