What Is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person's behavior, emotions, and concentration. It is most commonly diagnosed in children and teenagers, but can also affect adults. The primary symptoms of ADHD are difficulty paying attention, difficulty controlling behavior, and impulsivity.
What Does ADHD Look Like in Age 3?
In children aged 3 and under, ADHD can look different than it does in older children and adults. Signs of ADHD in this age group can include:
Hyperactivity: A child may be more active than other children their age, and may be unable to sit still for any length of time. They may fidget and talk excessively.
Impulsivity: A child may act without thinking, and may seem to be unable to control their impulses. They may interrupt others, blurt out answers to questions, or act before thinking about the consequences of their actions.
Difficulty Paying Attention: A child may have difficulty staying focused on tasks or activities, and may be easily distracted. They may also struggle to follow directions or instructions.
Difficulty Controlling Behavior: A child may struggle to control their emotions and behavior, and may have outbursts or tantrums. They may also have difficulty controlling their aggression and may act out aggressively.
Diagnosing ADHD in Age 3
It can be difficult to diagnose ADHD in this age group, as many of the symptoms can be normal for young children. If you are concerned that your child may have ADHD, it is important to speak to your doctor or a mental health professional for assessment and diagnosis.
If ADHD is diagnosed in this age group, it is important to provide support and treatment for your child. Treatment may include behavior therapy, medication, or a combination of both. It is important to speak to your doctor or mental health professional to determine the best treatment plan for your child.