What is Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), once thought to occur only in children, is now recognized as continuing into adulthood in many people. It is now understood to be a chronic condition with symptoms experienced over a lifetime, and it is estimated to affect as many as 4% of adults worldwide. ADHD is characterized by difficulty initiating or completing tasks, sustaining attention, and controlling impulsive actions. Patients may have difficulties with organization and time management. As a result of these difficulties, the disorder can negatively affect the educational, social, and occupational lives of those who suffer from its symptoms. Three types of ADHD are diagnosed: • Combined inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive (this is the most common type, found in about 80% percent of patients). • Predominantly inattentive (about 15%). • Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive (about 5%) The terminology can be confusing. Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is an older term for what is
