October is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Awareness Month

Over 17 million Americans are affected by ADHD.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a brain disorder marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.

• Inattention means a person wanders off task, lacks persistence, has difficulty sustaining focus, and is disorganized; and these problems are not due to defiance or lack of comprehension.
• Hyperactivity means a person seems to move about constantly, including in situations in which it is not appropriate; or excessively fidgets, taps, or talks. In adults, it may be extreme restlessness or wearing others out with constant activity.
• Impulsivity means a person makes hasty actions that occur in the moment without first thinking about them and that may have high potential for harm; or a desire for immediate rewards or inability to delay gratification. An impulsive person may be socially intrusive and excessively interrupt others or make important decisions without considering the long-term consequences.

It’s better for parents to know that ADHD might be part of the picture so they can seek out the help their children need; it’s better for young adults to know about their ADHD so they might arrange for appropriate accommodations in school or the workplace; and it’s better for adults to recognize their ADHD instead of feeling destined to a life of underachievement and frustration.

RESOURCES: 

The National Institute of Mental Health

ADHD Awareness Month Coalition 

The newest posting to the Job Accommodation Network's blog focuses on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Awareness Month. Melanie Whetzel, JAN Lead Consultant on the Cognitive/Neurological Team, discusses the implications of the 2017 theme, “Knowing Better: ADHD Across the Life Span.” Whetzel notes that awareness of ADHD at all times of life is important so that people can better understand how to accommodate themselves at home, in school, and in the workplace. Samples of situations and solutions involving employees with ADHD are highlighted.