ADHD, an In-Depth Look at Symptoms and Diagnosis

Ava B

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD is the second most common learning disorder in the world. At one point, ADHD was recorded to affect 6.2 million people.

ADHD expresses itself in many ways, the most commonly known being fidgeting or not being able to sit still. This, of course, is mostly based on the symptoms in boys. Girls are often left undiagnosed or even misdiagnosed due to ADHD being more obvious in boys. In boys, ADHD is more physically displayed. Boys are often observed to be more fidgety and restless, these are symptoms that most people think of when they think of the disorder. In girls however, ADHD is very different. Girls tend to be hyper-talkative, which is often chalked up to chattiness. Females also display forgetfulness, which is also brushed off as being a female trait, due to the extensive history of misunderstanding of the female brain. “Boys are more than twice as likely

 as girls to receive an ADHD diagnosis. This may be because boys tend to exhibit hallmark symptoms of hyperactivity. Although some girls with ADHD may have the classic symptoms of hyperactivity, many don’t.”(Healthline)  Girls can also appear withdrawn and uninterested, as well as convey extreme emotional reactions. The emotional aspect is also brushed off as being a “female trait” and the “over dramatics” of being a girl. Girls and women suffering from ADHD are much more likely to be in pursuit of attention, to make up for inattention, this too, is typically seen as a “female trait” and thought of as negative to boot. People often think that the best way to deal with someone looking for attention is to ignore them, no one seems to consider a disorder.

Either way, male and easily diagnosed, or female and “chatty”, ADHD affects attention span. Those suffering from ADHD are typically easily distracted or confused. Those with ADHD can also be affected socially, sometimes speaking without thinking or interrupting people when they’re talking. This is especially prevalent in fe

male sufferers, as it’s a habit to say things before the thought is forgotten, as forgetfulness is more common in girls and women. In children, boy and girl alike, extremely active imaginations are common, as well as creative or artistic inclination. Girls with ADHD are often observed to daydream frequently. It’s been found that people with ADHD possess less gray matter in their brains. Gray matter is part of the brain that works with speech, muscle, and self control as well as decision-making. This is why those with ADHD are often characterized with being impulsive or even rude. 

Overall, ADHD is a struggle among anyone with it. However, it’s a manageable disorder that makes people with it unique and all the more special to society.