Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Overview
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that begins in childhood, continues through adolescence, and often persists into adulthood. About 5 to 7% of children in the United States have ADHD, and similar rates have been found in countries all over the world. ADHD is characterized by a lack of ability to pay attention; struggles with keeping still or quiet; and impulsiveness that can interfere with school, work and relationships.
Research suggests that ADHD is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Scientists are working to uncover more details about the specific genes involved and the contributing environmental factors, but they have established that genetics play a powerful role – in fact, some studies suggest ADHD is as heritable as height.
Environmental factors that increase the likelihood of developing ADHD include prenatal exposure to nicotine or alcohol, premature birth or low birth weight, and exposure to lead or other toxins. While the ways someone was parented and taught didn’t cause their ADHD, both can impact the severity of the person's symptoms.
Our approach to ADHD
UCSF is a leader in providing advanced and compassionate mental health care for people of all ages and backgrounds. We’re one of the top 10 hospitals in the nation for adult psychiatric care, according to the annual ranking by U.S. News & World Report, and as part of the UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, our world-renowned neurologists, neurosurgeons and neuroscientists work as a team to swiftly translate research discoveries into new and better treatments for patients.
Awards & recognition
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Among the top hospitals in the nation
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Best in Northern California and No. 7 in the nation for psychiatric care
Signs & symptoms of ADHD
ADHD symptoms are related to inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Pretty much everyone struggles with these things at certain times during their lives, but the problems are more frequent, severe and troublesome for people with ADHD.
Not everyone with ADHD has all symptoms of the disorder. Some people may only have symptoms related to attention, while others – usually young children – may only have symptoms related to hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Hence there are three presentations of ADHD (categorized by the type and number of symptoms the person has): the predominantly inattentive presentation, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation and combined presentation.
Symptoms of inattentive ADHD
- Makes careless-seeming mistakes or struggles with details
- Has difficulty sustaining attention
- Doesn't seem to listen when directly spoken to
- Has difficulty following instructions or starts tasks but doesn’t finish them
- Has difficulty staying organized
- Avoids tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Loses things often
- Is easily distracted Is forgetful
Symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD
- Fidgets or squirms
- Often unable to stay quiet
- Typically "on the go" – almost as if driven by a motor
- Talks excessively
- Blurts out answers before questions are completed
- Has difficulty waiting their turn
- Frequently interrupts others or intrudes on their space
Diagnosis of ADHD
Diagnosing ADHD requires a comprehensive evaluation by a psychologist or psychiatrist, or by a care provider (such as a primary care provider) with specialized mental health training.
As part of the diagnostic process, the doctor will rule out other causes of the symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, learning differences or a physical health condition. Hyperactive and impulsive ADHD symptoms can appear as early as age 3, while symptoms of inattention tend to emerge later in childhood. In general, in order for an ADHD diagnosis to be considered, at least some symptoms of ADHD should be evident by the age of 12, even if an adult is getting diagnosed.
Treatment of ADHD
Effective ADHD treatments are available, including medication and certain behavioral interventions that have been established as effective, such as:
- Social skills training
- Organizational skills training
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
Many people with ADHD experience significant improvement in their symptoms from psychotherapy (talk therapy) alone or medication alone. However, both medication and psychotherapy may be needed to maximize improvement.
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.
