Empowered Learning Trust

What is Attention Deficit Hyperacitivity Disorder (ADHD)?

“A persistent pattern of inattention and hyperactivity– impulsivity that is more frequent and severe than is typically observed in individuals at a comparable level of development.” For more detailed information, got to the ADHD NZ website: http://www.adhd.org.nz

Sometimes a person has ADD or Attention Deficit Disorder, which is an inability to remain attentive without the hyperactivity. Both conditions make it difficult for a child to function in day to day life and at school.

If you would like to do an online test, go to ADHD website: http://www.adhd.org.nz/

For ADHD to be officially diagnosed, six or more of these symptoms have persisted for at least six months.

Inattention:

Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes.
Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activity.
Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
Does not follow through on instructions or finish work.
Has difficulty organising tasks and activities.
Avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
Loses things necessary for tasks or activities.
Is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
Is forgetful.
Very limited attention span.

Hyperactivity:

May distract others.
Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.
Leaves seat when staying in seat is expected.
Runs about or climbs excessively in situations where it is inappropriate. In teens or adults there may be a feeling of restlessness.
Has difficulty playing quietly.
Is often `on the go’ or seems `driven by a motor’.
Talks excessively.

Impulsivity:

Blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
Has difficulty waiting for a turn.
Interrupts or intrudes on others.

The following must also be observed:

Some symptoms are present before age seven.
Some impairment in at least two different settings.
Interference with developmentally appropriate academic, social, or occupational functioning.
No evidence of another mental or developmental disorder.

ADHD

What is Attention Deficit Hyperacitivity Disorder (ADHD)?

“A persistent pattern of inattention and hyperactivity– impulsivity that is more frequent and severe than is typically observed in individuals at a comparable level of development.” For more detailed information, got to the ADHD NZ website: http://www.adhd.org.nz

Sometimes a person has ADD or Attention Deficit Disorder, which is an inability to remain attentive without the hyperactivity. Both conditions make it difficult for a child to function in day to day life and at school.

If you would like to do an online test, go to ADHD website: http://www.adhd.org.nz/

For ADHD to be officially diagnosed, six or more of these symptoms have persisted for at least six months.

Inattention:

Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes.

Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activity.

Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

Does not follow through on instructions or finish work.

Has difficulty organising tasks and activities.

Avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.

Loses things necessary for tasks or activities.

Is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

Is forgetful.

Very limited attention span.

Hyperactivity:

May distract others.

Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.

Leaves seat when staying in seat is expected.

Runs about or climbs excessively in situations where it is inappropriate. In teens or adults there may be a feeling of restlessness.

Has difficulty playing quietly.

Is often `on the go’ or seems `driven by a motor’.

Talks excessively.

Impulsivity:

Blurts out answers before questions have been completed.

Has difficulty waiting for a turn.

Interrupts or intrudes on others.

The following must also be observed:

Some symptoms are present before age seven.

Some impairment in at least two different settings.

Interference with developmentally appropriate academic, social, or occupational functioning.

No evidence of another mental or developmental disorder.

Source: DSM – IV Criteria

Where can you get help?

For more information or support contact ADHD New Zealand