ADHD Symptoms Overview
Understanding the core symptoms of ADHD and how they manifest
ADHD symptoms fall into two main categories: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. The presence and severity of symptoms from each category determine the type of ADHD diagnosis.
Core Symptom Categories
Inattention Symptoms
- Difficulty maintaining focus on tasks
- Making careless mistakes
- Problems with organization
- Frequently losing important items
- Being easily distracted
- Struggling to follow instructions
- Avoiding tasks requiring sustained mental effort
- Forgetfulness in daily activities
Learn more about inattention symptoms →Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms
- Fidgeting or squirming
- Difficulty remaining seated
- Excessive running or climbing (restlessness in adults)
- Trouble playing quietly
- Often "on the go"
- Talking excessively
- Blurting out answers
- Difficulty waiting turn
- Frequently interrupting others
Learn more about hyperactivity symptoms →ADHD Types Based on Symptoms
- Predominantly Inattentive Type - Mainly inattention symptoms
- Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type - Mainly hyperactivity symptoms
- Combined Type - Both inattention and hyperactivity symptoms
Symptom Presentation
ADHD symptoms can vary:
- By age and developmental stage
- Across different settings (home, school, work)
- In severity and impact
- Between males and females