An ADD diagnosis is based on three factors: symptoms, level of impairment at work or home, and history. To be diagnosed with ADD, a woman must have shown symptoms by age 7 and continue to have symptoms into adulthood. Many possible symptoms exist; exhibiting eight of the following 12 is considered diagnostic. Check off the signs that seem familiar to you. If you suspect you have ADD, seek the counsel of a health care provider or clinical psychologist.
Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks.
Often not listening when spoken to.
Often not following through on instructions and failing to finish tasks.
Difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
Avoiding, disliking, or being reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
Often losing things necessary for tasks or activities.
Being easily distracted.
Being forgetful in everyday activities.
Exhibiting inaccurate self-observation.
Having chronic problems withself-esteem.
Tending toward addictive behavior.
Exhibiting mood swings, restlessness, and impulsivity.
—E.A.K.
