What Does ADHD Iceberg Mean? ADHD Resources for Teachers and Parents

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (AHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is usually diagnosed in childhood and can extend to teen years and adulthood. Individuals with ADHD find it hard to keep sustained attention and control impulsive behaviours (i.e., they may act without thinking).

Persons with ADHD also exhibit excessive fidgetiness and hyperactivity making it hard for them to study and socialize. “Although there is no cure for ADHD”, as the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) explained, “currently available treatments may help reduce symptoms and improve functioning. ADHD is commonly treated with medication, education or training, therapy, or a combination of treatments.”

Stephen Tonti does not regard ADHD as a disorder but rather a difference in cognition and he made a convincing point in defense of his argument. Watch his TED talk to learn more.

For books on ADHD, check out these collections:

What Are the Symptoms of ADHD ?

Individuals with ADHD, according to the Mental Institute of Mental Health, experience one or all of the these symptoms:

Inattention: having difficulty paying attention
Hyperactivity: having excessive energy and move and talk a lot
Impulsivity: having difficult with self-control and often act without thinking

Signs of inattention may include:

As the NIMH stated, signs of inattention may include:

“Not paying close attention to details or making seemingly careless mistakes in schoolwork or during other activities
Difficulty sustaining attention in play and tasks, including conversations, tests, or lengthy assignments
Trouble listening closely when spoken to directly
Finding it hard to follow through on instructions or to finish schoolwork or chores, or starting tasks but losing focus and getting easily sidetracked
Difficulty organizing tasks and activities, such as doing tasks in sequence, keeping materials and belongings in order, managing time, and meeting deadlines
Avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as homework
Losing things necessary for tasks or activities, such as school supplies, books, eyeglasses, and cell phones
Being easily distracted by unrelated thoughts or stimuli
Being forgetful during daily activities, such as chores, errands, and keeping appointments.”

Signs of hyperactivity and impulsivity may include:

NIMH outlined the following as among the signs of hyperactivity and impulsivity:

“Fidgeting and squirming while seated
Getting up and moving around when expected to stay seated, such as in a classroom
Running, dashing around, or climbing at inappropriate times or, in teens, often feeling restless
Being unable to play or engage in hobbies quietly
Being constantly in motion or on the go and/or acting as if driven by a motor
Talking excessively
Answering questions before they are fully asked or finishing other people’s sentences
Having difficulty waiting one’s turn, such as when standing in line
Interrupting or intruding on others, for example, in conversations, games, or activities.”

Strategies to Manage ADHD Symptoms

NIMH offers some useful tips to help manage ADHD symptoms. These include:

“Get regular exercise, especially when they seem hyperactive or restless.
Eat regular, healthy meals.
Get plenty of sleep.
Stick to a routine.
Use homework and notebook organizers to write down assignments and reminders.
Take medications as directed.”