Jessica Hanlon | NCC | MHC-LP | ADHD-CCSP
What is ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
ADHD is not just about occasional inattention or hyperactivity; it involves a chronic level of these behaviors that is higher than typical for a person's age and development.
Living
with ADHD
ADHD is about more than attention—it affects how you live, connect, and thrive
Two people might share the same symptoms on paper, but how those symptoms play out in real life can be completely different. That’s what makes ADHD so unique to each person—it’s not just about focus; it’s about function.
To receive a formal diagnosis, symptoms must cause significant challenges in at least two areas of life—like home, school, work, or social situations.
This means ADHD isn’t just about being distracted; it can show up as struggles with organization, motivation, emotional control, self-esteem, and relationships.
ADHD is typically grouped into three main types, based on the symptoms that stand out the most:
01
Inattentive Type (ADHD-I)
This type is for those who have a black belt in daydreaming and zoning out.
Key Symptoms
-
Lack of attention to detail
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Struggles to follow instructions.
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Easily distracted
02
Hyperactive-Impulsive Type (ADHD-HI)
This type is the life of the party because they can’t sit still.
(Imagine a toddler who just ate 3 cupcakes)
Key Symptoms
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Fidgeting and squirming
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Blurting out answers before questions are even finished
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Interrupting others in conversations
03
Combined Type (ADHD-C)
This type combines inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms together.
Why have just one flavor of chaos when you can have the whole buffet?
Key Symptoms
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Forgetting or misplacing your keys, wallet, phone, etc.
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Starting 17 different projects and finishing none because new ideas keep popping into your head.
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Losing track of conversations mid-sentence because your brain just switched channels.
Undiagnosed ADHD Can Impact Every Aspect of Your Life
Adults with ADHD may struggle to form strong friendships and romantic relationships, maintain steady employment, manage household chores, or stay committed to hobbies and long-term projects.
Children with ADHD might find it difficult to keep their grades up or follow classroom rules, often leading to disciplinary issues.
If you or your child are experiencing these challenges, it might be time for answers. ADHD testing can help identify the root of your symptoms, provide a formal diagnosis, if appropriate, and consider alternative explanations, guiding you towards effective treatment options.
