Ways to Help Students with ADHD
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most wellrecognized childhood developmental problems. This condition is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. It is now known that these symptoms continue into adulthood for about 60% of children with ADHD. That translates into 4% of the US adult population, or 8 million adults. However, few adults are identified or treated for adult ADHD. The following behaviors and problems may stem directly from ADHD or may be the result of related adjustment difficulties:
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Adult ADHD
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty following directions, remembering information, concentrating, organizing tasks or completing work within time limits. If these difficulties are not managed appropriately, they can cause associated behavioral, emotional, social, vocational and academic problems. Adult ADHD Statistics
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Chronic lateness and forgetfulness. Anxiety. Low self-esteem. Employment problems. Difficulty controlling anger. Impulsiveness. Substance abuse or addiction. Poor organization skills. Procrastination. Low frustration tolerance. Chronic boredom. Difficulty concentrating when reading. Mood swings. Depression. Relationship problems.

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ADHD afflicts approximately 3% to 5% of school-age children and an estimated 60% of those will maintain the disorder into adulthood. Prevalence rates for ADHD in adults are not as well determined as rates for children, but fall in the 1% to 5% range. ADHD affects males at higher rate than females in childhood, but this ratio seems to even out by adulthood.

These behaviors may be mild to severe and can vary with the situation or be present all of the time. Some adults with ADHD may be able to concentrate if they are interested in or excited about what they are doing. Others may have difficulty focusing under any circumstances. Some adults look for stimulation, but others avoid it. In addition, adults with ADHD can be withdrawn and antisocial, or they can be overly social and unable to be alone.

School-Related Impairments Linked to Adult ADHD
Adults with ADHD may have:
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Common Behaviors and Problems of Adult ADHD

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Had a history of poorer educational performance and were underachievers. Had more frequent school disciplinary actions. Had to repeat a grade. Dropped out of school more often.

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Ways to Help Students with ADHD
Work-Related Impairments Linked to Adult ADHD
Adults with ADHD are more likely to:
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Characteristics of students with ADHD may include:                Make careless mistakes in school Difficulty waiting in line Difficulty paying attention in class Misplace materials needed for school Poor organizational skills Fail to finish activities, homework Act first-think late Fidget in class Appear bored Difficulty taking turns & sharing Blurt out answers, excessive talking Shift from one unfinished activity to another. Difficulty following instructions Have trouble making & keeping Friends Daydream.

Change employers frequently and perform poorly. Have had fewer occupational achievements, independent of psychiatric status.

Social-Related Impairments Linked to Adult ADHD
Adults with ADHD are more likely to:
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Have a lower socioeconomic status. Have driving violations such as: be cited for speeding; have their licenses suspended; be involved in more crashes; rate themselves and others as using poorer driving habits. Use illegal substances more frequently. Smoke cigarettes. Self-report psychological maladjustment more often.

Positive characteristics!  Creative, divergent thinker  Strong visual skills  See details other people miss.  Energetic and enthusiastic

Relationship-Related Impairments Linked to Adult ADHD
Adults with ADHD are more likely to:
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 Ready to talk and participate Have more marital