Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that begins in childhood, but it can continue throughout the lifetime (National Institute of Mental Health, 2008). It can be linked to a genetic disorder that can occur in families.

There are three different subtypes of ADHD:  predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, or a combination of inattention and hyperactivity. There can be several different kinds of symptoms that are seen in ADHD.

Signs and symptoms of ADHD:

• Difficulty concentrating or keeping attention
• Being Easily Distracted
• Irresponsibility
• Difficulty in social situations
• Being hyperactive
• Trouble listening to instructions

National Institute of Mental Health (2008). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Retrieved May 29, 2012, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/complete-index.shtml

Self-Assessment for ADHD

1. Do you feel that you have more difficulty keeping attention than others do?
2. Has there been a pattern of hyperactivity or impulsivity since your childhood?
3. Have you noticed obstacles in academic, social, or occupational performance?
4. Do you have trouble completing activities or tasks?
5. Do you often avoid tasks that involve a certain amount of mental effort?
6. Do you have difficulty following through on instructions?
7. Does the environment around you easily distract you?
8. Do you interrupt others or have a challenging time awaiting your turn?

If you answered yes to at least three of these questions, then it may benefit you to come to Student Counseling Services.

Links for Additional Information on ADHD

• ADHDNews.com
• Christianity and Adult ADHD

Books for ADD/ ADHD

• Teaching Superman How to Fly: Making ADHD a Gift – Robert Everett Cimera
• You mean I’m not Lazy, Stupid, or Crazy? A Self-Help Book for Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder – Kate Kelly & Peggy Ramundo
• Adventures in Fast Forward: Life, Love and Work for the ADD Adult – Kathleen G. Nadeau
• The Disorganized Mind: Coaching Your ADHD Brain to Take Control of Your Time, Tasks, & Talents – Nancy A. Ratey

While these books and links are resources to use, Student Counseling Services at Liberty University is not endorsing these books and websites or the authors of the books or websites