ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a chronic (ongoing) brain condition that commonly affects children. ADHD can make it difficult to perform well at school or work. Someone with ADHD may have difficulty concentrating, sitting still, or managing their emotions and actions. They may also frequently forget or lose things, make careless mistakes, or have difficulty getting along well with others. 

Specifically, ADHD is characterized by symptoms that can fall under one or more of these categories:  

• Inattention: Marked by trouble concentrating or staying focused that does not involve defiance or a lack of understanding
• Hyperactivity: Marked by excess or erratic talking, movement, or fidgeting
• Impulsivity: Marked by making hasty decisions, seemingly acting on sudden urges, or displaying a lack of self-control

Most children, even those who do not have ADHD, have short attention spans or bursts of energy. ADHD, however, is characterized by a pattern of severe or frequent symptoms that can impair a child’s ability to succeed in school or socialize well with others.

ADHD affects executive functioning skills, which involve emotional control, working memory, organization, and problem-solving. These skills allow a person to manage their time and carry out basic tasks without distraction. 

Evidence shows that children with ADHD have slightly smaller and more slowly developing prefrontal cortexes than children without the condition. The prefrontal cortex, or the brain’s “personality center,” is located at the front of the brain and facilitates executive functioning skills.

In addition to the prefrontal cortex, research suggests that other brain structures are also slightly smaller and more slowly developing in children with ADHD. These include the:

• Cerebellum: A part of the brain that regulates movement
• Amygdala: A part of the brain that processes emotions and deals with motivation
• Hippocampus: A part of the brain that deals with learning and memory

The growth and maturation of these structures does eventually increase. By adulthood, the brain volume of a person with ADHD is comparable to that of someone who does not have ADHD.

Another way to describe a person who has a neurodevelopmental disorder like ADHD is to say they are “neurodivergent.” Someone who does not have a neurodevelopmental disorder would be considered “neurotypical.” The brains of neurodivergent people may operate differently than those of neurotypical people.

ADHD is not a learning disability, though it can make learning more challenging by disrupting one’s ability to concentrate. Learning disabilities (such as dyslexia) are more common in people with ADHD. ADHD in adults

Around 3 percent of adults in the U.S. have ADHD, according to a 2023 review of studies published in Psychiatry Research. ADHD that’s diagnosed in childhood and continues into adulthood is called persistent ADHD. Some people with the condition go undiagnosed until adulthood, however. Many adults who have ADHD may never receive an accurate diagnosis or treatment.

Symptoms of ADHD in adulthood typically involve trouble concentrating and impulsivity. Hyperactivity may be absent in adult ADHD or appear in more subtle forms like restlessness. An adult with undiagnosed ADHD may feel like they’re disorganized, frequently stressed, or easily frustrated.

Treatment for adult ADHD is similar to treatment for childhood ADHD. A combination of therapy, organizational strategies, and medication is often helpful for adults.

What’s the difference between ADD and ADHD?

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is an outdated term for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). There’s no difference between these conditions. Up until 1987, people received a diagnosis of ADD with hyperactivity or ADD without hyperactivity. Today, all diagnoses are known as ADHD, even if hyperactive symptoms aren’t present.

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There are three main types of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder:

• Inattentive type (also called predominantly inattentive presentation): This type of ADHD mostly involves trouble concentrating and staying organized. Hyperactivity is less common. Inattentive type ADHD was formerly known as ADD without hyperactivity, or simply ADD.
• Hyperactive/impulsive type (also called predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation): This type of ADHD mostly involves hyperactivity and impulsivity. Difficulty concentrating is less common.
• Combined type (also called combined presentation): This type of ADHD involves trouble concentrating, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Combined presentation ADHD makes up around 70 percent of cases.

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Different types of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder have different symptoms. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) categorizes signs and symptoms of ADHD by the condition’s type.

Inattentive type ADHD symptoms

Someone with inattentive type ADHD may:

• Have difficulty concentrating on activities or tasks, such as school lectures, work presentations, or conversations
• Make careless mistakes and have difficulty paying close attention to details
• Have trouble following through on tasks, such as chores, homework, or work responsibilities
• May appear distracted or as if they’re not listening when being spoken to
• Dislike or avoid tasks that require considerable mental effort
• Have trouble managing their time, prioritizing tasks, or meeting deadlines
• Be easily distracted 
• Frequently misplace or lose important items such as car keys, schoolbooks, eyeglasses, or homework
• Frequently forget to complete homework, finish chores, return phone calls, or make appointments

Hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD symptoms

Someone with hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD may:  

• Have trouble staying seated in school or at work
• Frequently fidget, squirm in their seat, or tap their hands or feet
• Be unable to quietly play or enjoy other leisure activities in silence
• Skip, run, climb, or otherwise move around in inappropriate scenarios
• Talk excessively
• Always be “on the go” 
• Have trouble being patient, standing in line, or waiting their turn
• Speak out of turn or blurt out answers before someone finishes asking a question
• Frequently interrupt others, intrude on activities, or “take over” activities or conversations  

Combined type ADHD symptoms

Someone with combined type ADHD displays signs of both inattentive type and hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD.  

ADHD symptoms can vary

ADHD is common and can affect anyone. In many cases, boys and people assigned male at birth (AMAB) show more impulsive or hyperactive symptoms, while girls and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) display more inattentiveness.

A person’s ADHD symptoms can also evolve with age as academic demands and social situations change. For example:

• Pre-school-aged children often experience hyperactivity and impulsivity.
• School-aged children may struggle academically and have difficulty with attention and focus.
• Teenagers and adolescents may display restlessness and a tendency to engage in risky behaviors.
• Adults might have a low tolerance for stress and be moody or irritable.

ADHD symptoms can also vary in severity. Around six in 10 children with ADHD have moderate or severe symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  

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Most healthcare providers (HCPs) refer to the APA’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) when diagnosing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. This is a thorough catalogue of mental health issues and the symptoms that define them.

According to the DSM-5-TR, to make a diagnosis of ADHD, symptoms must be noticeable before age 12 and persist for at least six months. A child aged 16 or younger is diagnosed with:  

• Inattentive type ADHD if they display six or more inattentive type symptoms (listed above) 
• Hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD if they display six or more hyperactive/impulsive type symptoms (listed above) 
• Combined type ADHD if they display at least six symptoms of inattentive type ADHD and six symptoms of hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD

Inattentive or hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD may be diagnosed in an adult (aged 17 or older) if they display five or more symptoms of the corresponding condition. Similarly, adult combination type ADHD is indicated by having five inattentive symptoms and five hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.

Some people experience significant ADHD symptoms but don’t meet the criteria for any one type of ADHD. This is known as unspecified ADHD.

Before diagnosing ADHD, an HCP may also review a person’s medical history and perform a physical and psychological exam to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms. These can include anxiety, depression, thyroid issues, sleep disorders, and brain injury, among other health concerns.  

Keep in mind that only a trained HCP can diagnose or rule out ADHD. Parents, guardians, and school staff members cannot diagnose ADHD or make important treatment decisions, such as recommending ADHD medication.

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Speak with an HCP if you or your child experiences possible symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Remember, it’s never too late to seek help. ADHD treatment can help boost performance at work or school, improve social skills and relationships, and ease stress.

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The exact cause of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is unclear, but a growing amount of evidence suggests that the genes a person inherits from their parents could play a significant role. Many people with ADHD have relatives with the condition. A combination of other factors, such as brain injuries and a person’s environment, may also contribute to the development of ADHD.  

Researchers have identified several differences between the brains of children with ADHD and children without the condition. In addition to having more slowly developing brain structures (including the prefrontal cortex, cerebellum, amygdala, and hippocampus), research indicates that the brain of a person with ADHD may also have imbalances of chemicals called neurotransmitters. Levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved with decision-making and motivation, may be lower in children with ADHD.

More research is needed to determine what causes ADHD and how the condition may be prevented.    

What doesn’t cause ADHD?

While the cause of ADHD isn’t fully understood, researchers have debunked several common myths about how the condition develops. For example, factors that do not cause ADHD include:

• Spending too much time in front of a television, computer, or phone screen
• Eating too much sugar
• Allergies
• Immunizations
• Poverty or low socioeconomic status
• Poor parenting

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A risk factor is something that may increase your chances of developing a certain condition. Risk factors for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder include:

Genetics: ADHD can run in families. If you have ADHD, your child may have an increased risk of the condition.

Sex assigned at birth: Boys and people AMAB are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls and people AFAB. This may be because boys tend to display more noticeable hyperactive symptoms than girls.

Lifestyle habits during pregnancy: A person who smokes, drinks alcohol, or uses other substances during pregnancy has an increased risk of giving birth to a child with ADHD.

Premature birth: ADHD risk is higher among children who were born prematurely (before the 37th week of pregnancy). Having a low birth weight also increases a child’s risk.

Epilepsy: ADHD is significantly more common in children who have epilepsy, a chronic brain condition that causes seizures. 

Brain damage: Brain damage that occurs in the womb or in childhood (such as from a head injury) may increase a child’s risk of ADHD.

Lead exposure. Lead is an element that can be toxic to the brain. Exposure to lead during pregnancy and early in childhood increases a child’s risk of ADHD.

Lead was in the past used to manufacture paint, plumbing materials, cosmetics, gasoline, and other products. The use of lead in manufacturing is now largely banned or limited, but it may still be found in some items like dishware, jewelry, keys, and some children’s toys, as well as paint and pipes in older homes.

Visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website to search for the latest product recalls related to lead and to view safety information.

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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a complex condition. If you or your child are diagnosed with ADHD, you may be feeling overwhelmed or confused about your next steps. Being open with your family’s HCP about your questions and concerns can help you better understand ADHD and make confident, informed treatment decisions. 

Some questions that you may have about ADHD include:

• What type of ADHD does my child have?  
• How should I explain ADHD to my child?
• Are ADHD and ADD the same thing? 
• How is ADHD treated? What are the risks and benefits of treatment? 
• Are there advantages to having ADHD?
• How can I manage ADHD with other conditions?  
• Is ADHD a type of autism?
• Is ADHD a learning disability?
• How can I speak with my child’s teachers about ADHD?
• What does adult ADHD treatment involve?
• How long does ADHD last?
• Can speaking with a licensed mental health provider improve ADHD?

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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is manageable with a combination of behavior therapy, improved organizational skills, and/or medication. There’s no cure for ADHD, but treatment can significantly reduce symptoms and help you or your child function more smoothly in everyday life.  

Visiting a primary care provider or pediatrician (a medical doctor who specializes in children’s health) is a good place to start if you’re concerned about ADHD symptoms. They can provide treatment or refer you to a specialist such as a mental health provider, if appropriate.

An ADHD treatment plan may involve several approaches:

Therapy and behavioral interventions

Therapy is beneficial for children, teens, and adults with ADHD as well as their families. In fact, participation in therapy is key for parents and guardians of children with ADHD. Just as children must learn how to manage their emotions and urges, parents and guardians should understand how to help manage ADHD behaviors in a healthy, positive way.

Moreover, ADHD can sometimes cause friction and frustration between family members. Attending therapy as a family or couple can help soothe strained relationships and lay the groundwork for successful ADHD treatment.  

Several types of mental health providers, including counselors, psychiatrists, and psychologists, can provide therapy for ADHD. Depending on a person’s needs, one or more types of therapy may be recommended. These include:

Behavior therapy: This type of therapy concentrates on changing behaviors by helping people learn how to improve organizational skills, monitor emotions, and navigate difficult circumstances. Acknowledging one’s own accomplishments and positive behaviors is also encouraged.

Cognitive behavioral therapy: Also known as CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy increases awareness of thoughts and feelings and teaches ways to improve ADHD symptoms.

Social skills training: This type of therapy focuses on refining social and interpersonal skills. For a child, this may involve practicing how to share toys, wait in line, or ask for help in a polite way. An adult may work on improving their communication, listening, and problem-solving skills.

Family and marital therapy: This type of therapy helps parents, guardians, spouses, or partners of people with ADHD learn how to support their loved one. Family members work on ways to help ease their loved one’s symptoms, cope with difficult behaviors, and improve their relationship with their child or partner.

Parenting skills training: This type of therapy teaches how to effectively praise and discipline a child with ADHD. A parent or guardian learns how to implement a system of consequences and rewards and provide positive feedback to encourage certain behaviors.   

Daily management tips

There are several behavior management tips that can help parents and guardians set their children up for success. These may include the following:

• Create a daily routine that includes set bedtimes and wake-up times.
• Manage digital distractions such as social media, television, and video games. When it’s time for homework, provide a clean, clutter-free space to work. (Keep in mind that light background noise may help some people with ADHD concentrate.)
• Identify your child’s strengths and find opportunities for them to enjoy positive experiences. For example, consider enrolling your active, athletic child in a local sports league.
• Break down complicated tasks such as school assignments or chores into smaller, manageable steps. Encourage your child to make a game plan for completing tasks. 
• Be simple and straightforward when speaking to your child. When they speak to you, repeat what you hear them say to avoid miscommunication. 
• Limit choices to make decisions easier. For instance, instead of offering multiple toys to bring to the park, have them choose between two. 
• Set achievable goals and praise or reward your child when they reach those goals. Make a chart to list goals and track helpful behaviors (such as finishing chores on time or studying for a big test at school).  

Many of these strategies also apply to adults with ADHD. Minimizing digital distractions, breaking down large tasks into manageable steps, and maintaining a consistent routine can help people of all ages manage ADHD symptoms.

ADHD in the classroom

ADHD treatment is most effective when parents or guardians communicate openly with their child’s teachers. If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, inform their teacher or a school staff member and ask what can be done to help them succeed.

Your child may be able to receive academic accommodations such as extra time to take tests or seating toward the front of the classroom (more on this below). Interventions such as study skills training and behavior management plans may also be used.

Organizational skills training

Learning how to improve organization skills is a key part of ADHD treatment for both children and adults. Organizational skills training is often a part of behavior therapy, but you don’t have to consult with a counselor to improve your habits or teach your child to do the same. 

Some basic organizational tips for people with ADHD include the following:

• Write down important things such as daily to-do lists, appointments, deadlines, and significant dates like birthdays in a planner or smartphone app. Jotting down last-minute reminders on sticky notes may also be helpful.
• Use organizational products such as notebook dividers, labels, and small containers to keep important or frequently used items neatly arranged. 
• Assign places in your home for everyday items like backpacks, schoolbooks, favorite toys, keys, wallets, bills, and purses. These places should be quickly accessible and easy to find. 
• Create easy-to-follow routines across school days workdays and stick to them as best as you can. 
• Get regular exercise to burn off excess energy—especially if you or your child are feeling particularly restless or hyperactive. Exercise improves the health of your brain, and setting up an exercise routine can help create a sense of order and control.

ADHD medication

Medication can help improve concentration in some people with hyperactive or impulsive ADHD symptoms. ADHD medication is most effective when it’s combined with organizational skills and lessons learned in therapy. Children younger than 6 years of age are generally advised to try behavior therapy before taking medication for ADHD.

Around 53 percent of children in the U.S. with ADHD take medication for the condition, according to a 2024 study published in the Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several medications for use in people ages 6 and older with ADHD:

Stimulants

Stimulants are the most common type of ADHD medication. They work quickly to increase levels of brain chemicals involved in concentration and thinking. According to the CDC, 70 to 80 percent of children with ADHD experience fewer symptoms when taking stimulants.

Examples of stimulants for ADHD include methylphenidate (commonly known as Ritalin) and amphetamines (among which is Adderall). Some stimulants are short-acting, which means they increase concentration for three to six hours. Others are long-acting and work for around 12 hours at a time.

Your HCP may first recommend starting with a low dose of a stimulant medication, then adjusting the dosage and type of medication as needed depending on how you or your child responds.

Nonstimulants

Nonstimulants can help reduce impulsivity and improve concentration and attention in people with ADHD, though it may take a few weeks to notice an improvement after starting them. Once nonstimulants begin to have an effect, the benefits usually last up to 24 hours at a time.

Nonstimulants may be combined with or used in place of stimulant medications. Examples of nonstimulants include clonidine, viloxazine, atomoxetine, and guanfacine. 

Antidepressants (including norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors and tricyclics) may also be prescribed to someone with ADHD if they have a coexisting mental health condition such as depression or anxiety. While antidepressants aren’t approved by the FDA specifically to treat ADHD, they can help ease ADHD symptoms in some cases.

Side effects of ADHD medication

Any medication has the potential to cause side effects, including drugs used to treat ADHD. The most common side effects of ADHD medication include:

• Trouble sleeping
• Decreased appetite
• Increased irritability or moodiness
• Jitteriness
• Stomachaches
• Headaches
• High blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate

These side effects are usually mild and go away in a few days or weeks after starting the medication. Contact your HCP right away if you or your child experience unexpected, persistent, or severe side effects. They may adjust the dosage or recommend a different type of medication.

Clinical trials for ADHD

A clinical trial is a research study that involves voluntary human participation. Multiple clinical trials are currently underway to expand the medical community’s understanding of ADHD, including the differences between the brains of people with ADHD and the brains of neurotypical people, as well as how the condition may be treated or even prevented.

Speak with your HCP to learn more about ADHD clinical trials and the potential benefits of participating in a study. You can also browse active studies by visiting ClinicalTrials.gov.

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Symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can make daily life more difficult. Some people experience complications from ADHD such as:

• Poor performance at school or work
• Low self-esteem
• Poor mental or physical health
• Strained relationships  
• Frequent accidents (such as car crashes)
• Substance use
• Suicidal thoughts or feelings

Reach out to the 988 Lifeline if you or someone you know needs help with thoughts of suicide, depression, or anxiety. This free service is confidential and available 24 hours a day.

ADHD and co-occurring medical conditions

ADHD often occurs alongside other mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions. A large national survey in 2022 observed ADHD trends in children between ages 3 and 17 years. The survey found that:

• 14.4 percent had autism spectrum disorder
• 14.8 percent had a speech/language disorder
• 18.9 percent had depression
• 21.7 percent had a developmental delay  
• 36.5 percent had a learning disability
• 39.1 percent had anxiety 
• 44.1 percent had behavioral or conduct problems  

Many ADHD complications and coexisting conditions can be improved or managed with treatment. Speak with your family’s HCP if you notice unusual symptoms or suspect developmental delays in your child.

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There’s no known way to prevent attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. But starting treatment at the first signs of ADHD may help prevent severe symptoms.

Avoiding certain ADHD risk factors might also reduce the chances of your child developing ADHD. For example, if you’re pregnant, don’t drink alcohol or use recreational drugs. It’s also important for pregnant people and young children to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals like lead.

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The outlook for people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is generally positive. Many people with the condition go on to excel academically and professionally. With appropriate treatment, a child with ADHD can manage their symptoms and live a productive life. Many children outgrow ADHD and don’t experience significant symptoms in adulthood.

For adults with persistent ADHD, treatment is also beneficial. Taking steps to minimize distractions, develop a daily routine, and improve organizational skills can go a long way toward keeping symptoms under control.  

Is ADHD a disability?  

ADHD is not a learning disability, but it is considered a developmental disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Established in 1990, this law prevents discrimination against disabled employees and requires employers to make appropriate workplace accommodations. 

For someone with ADHD, these workplace accommodations might include:

• Scheduled breaks
• Use of white noise or noise-cancelling headphones
• A quiet or private workspace
• Minimized or limited disruptions to work time 
• Use of a job coach, mentor, or assistive technology (such as computer apps or timers) 

Children with ADHD are also entitled to special accommodations at school. The 504 Plan is a measure that guarantees free and appropriate education to children with disabilities. This may include providing extra time to complete tests, a quiet place to work, or a modified curriculum.

Children with severe ADHD symptoms may qualify for free special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Speak with your family’s HCP to learn more.

Are there benefits to having ADHD?

Living with ADHD or having a child with the condition can sometimes feel challenging. But many people with ADHD and their loved ones identify a range of benefits to having ADHD. In fact, people with ADHD or other forms of neurodivergence may have unique skills and abilities that are often sought-after in the workplace.

People who have ADHD tend to be:

• Creative
• Energetic
• Spontaneous
• Curious and explorative
• Resilient
• Outgoing and conversational
• Hyper-focused on activities they find engaging and that align with their interests and skills
• Nonconforming, nonlinear thinkers
• Empathetic
• Tolerant, nonjudgemental, and open to opposing viewpoints

Receiving treatment can help people with ADHD manage unhelpful symptoms and harness their strengths for their benefit.

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Living a healthy lifestyle is particularly important for people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In addition to receiving treatment from an HCP, making healthy choices can support brain health, boost mood, and help make daily life with ADHD a little easier.

If you or your child has ADHD, try implementing these healthy habits: 

Get active  

Regular exercise can help you or your child channel excess energy and improve mental and physical health.

The CDC recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (such as brisk walking) per week. Adults who’d like to pick up the pace can opt for 75 minutes of more of vigorous aerobic activity (such as running or jogging) every week.

Incorporating muscle-strengthening activities (such as weight lifting and body weight exercises) into your exercise routine a few times a week is also a good idea.

Getting regular physical activity is equally important for children with ADHD. Children between ages 3 and 5 years should enjoy active playtime every day. Kids and adolescents between ages 6 and 17 years should aim to get around 60 minutes of physical activity each day. This should include fun, age-appropriate activities like:

• Playing tag or catch
• Jumping rope
• Climbing monkey bars
• Riding a bike
• Swimming
• Playing sports like soccer, volleyball, basketball, or baseball

Staying active can also help reduce screen time (time spent watching TV, scrolling social media, or playing video games). Too much screen time is associated with poor mental health, poor performance in school, and subpar sleep.

Prioritize sleep 

Sleep is a basic human need, much like eating and breathing. Poor sleep disrupts mental health, attention span, memory, and overall well-being.

How much sleep you need daily depends on your age. According to the CDC:

• Preschoolers between 3 and 5 years of age need 10 to 13 hours of sleep each day (including naps).
• School-age children between 6 and 12 years need 9 to 12 hours of sleep.
• Teens between 13 and 17 years need 8 to 10 hours of sleep.  
• Adults 18 years and older need at least 7 hours of sleep.

There are several ways to improve your sleep health. For example:

• Power down electronics (including phones) at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
• Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
• Avoid alcohol and large meals in the evening.
• Sleep in a dark, cool, quiet room.
• Don’t drink caffeinated beverages (such as coffee, energy drinks, or sodas) in the afternoon or evening.
• Exercise regularly (but not too close to bedtime).

Follow a nutritious diet

A healthy diet with a variety of nutrient-rich foods will fuel your brain as well as your body. No matter your age, it’s important to include plenty of the following in your diet:

• Vegetables, especially leafy green vegetables like broccoli, spinach, kale, and collard greens
• Fresh fruit
• Whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, bulgur, and whole-grain breads and pastas
• Lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, lentils, and beans
• Low-fat or non-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese

Eating a healthy breakfast before going to work or school can help you sustain your concentration throughout the day. Healthy breakfast examples include berries and Greek yogurt, eggs with whole-grain toast, oatmeal topped with apples and cinnamon, or a vitamin-packed smoothie with yogurt, fresh fruit, and spinach.

Additionally, be sure to avoid or limit these items in your family’s diet:

• Added sugars, often found in prepackaged snacks, cereals, cookies, candies, fruit juices, sodas, sports drinks, and even condiments like ketchup
• Foods high in saturated fat such as red meat, fried foods, full-fat dairy products, butter, and many packaged baked goods
• Foods high in sodium (salt) such as bacon, lunch meat, chips, salted nuts, and many frozen and canned foods

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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a common and manageable condition with several effective treatment options. Whether you’re an adult who deals with persistent ADHD symptoms or you’re seeking help for your child, relief is achievable. Speak with an HCP to learn more about ADHD symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

You can also browse helpful ADHD resources from the following organizations:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  
• Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)
• Attention Deficit Disorder Association  

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