Is ADHD a mental illness or a mental disorder?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children. Symptoms of ADHD include inattention (not being able to keep focus), hyperactivity (excess movement that is not fitting to the setting) and impulsivity (hasty acts that occur in the moment without thought).
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a severe mental illness, associated with major impairment and a high comorbidity rate. Particularly undiagnosed ADHD in adulthood has serious consequences.
ADHD is a brain disorder.
Scientists have shown that there are differences in the brains of children with ADHD and that some of these differences change as a child ages and matures.
The Centers for Disease Control considers ADHD to be a developmental disability. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke does not consider ADHD to be a learning disability. It may be possible to receive disability benefits if you or your child has ADHD.
ADHD, also called attention-deficit disorder, is a behavior disorder, usually first diagnosed in childhood, that is characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity. These symptoms usually occur together; however, one may occur without the other(s).
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent psychiatric disorder [1,2,3]. Although it is commonly conceptualized as a neurodevelopmental condition, it also includes features that resemble basic personality traits, such as Neuroticism and Impulsivity [4, 5].
The three main symptoms of ADHD are hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. All of these impact behavior, mood, and thinking. That's why ADHD meets the criteria for mental illness.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a learning difficulty caused by a neurobehavioural disorder, and is the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorder in children.
Regardless of how well he or she performs in school, a student who has trouble concentrating, reading, thinking, organizing or prioritizing projects, among other important tasks, because of ADHD may have a disability and be protected under Section 504.
Is ADHD person smart?
Does ADHD affect IQ? A popular misconception is that all children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are naturally smarter and have a higher IQ than children without ADHD. However, there is no correlation between this condition and intelligence.
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Some of the symptoms of adults with ADHD are:
- Trouble completing and organizing tasks.
- Frequently losing important belongings.
- Forgetfulness and distraction.
- Restlessness.
- Difficulty following details.
- Impatience.

ADHD subjects showed higher Neuroticism and lower Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness than healthy controls. The presence of ADHD rather than cognitive profile is associated with personality traits.
While it is not a mental health condition or a learning disability, some people with ADHD might experience mental health conditions as well. If you have ADHD your brain might work differently to other people's.
ADHD is recognised as a condition which qualifies for disability benefits and funding.