AD/HD stands for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. AD/HD is a neurological disorder (meaning it has to do with your nervous system) that makes it hard for a person to pay attention and/or control their behavior. Often this disorder is classified by three characteristics: inattention (daydreaming, being distracted), hyperactivity (being wired, restless) and impulsivity (being hasty, rash). A person may have all of these traits or a combination of the three.
AD/HD usually becomes noticeable during childhood. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, three to five percent of kids have some form of AD/HD, and it usually continues into adulthood. However, AD/HD can be difficult to diagnose at a young age since many children exhibit some of the symptoms normally. (How many kids do you know that have a problem sitting still? Thought so.)
Only a professional, such as a neurologist, psychologist or physician can properly diagnose someone with AD/HD.
