ADHD is a hyperkinetic disorder with early onset, usually before age 5, characterized by a combination of overactive, poorly controlled behavior with marked inattention, and lack of persistent attention to tasks.  There are 3 types of ADHD: Primarily inattentive, primarily hyperactive and impulsive, and combined: inattentive and hyperactive.
 
For individuals with ADHD, the problem is so significant that it interferes with their daily life. It has been said that having ADHD is like living in a fast moving environment where sounds, images, and thoughts constantly shift. Individuals with ADHD often are easily bored, but at the same time feel helpless to keep their mind on tasks they need to complete. Often distracted by unimportant sights and sounds, their minds tend to move from one activity or thought to the next. They tend to be unable to sit still, plan ahead, or finish tasks. Because these kids are often viewed negatively by others due to behaviors and poor performance in school, feelings of worthlessness due to negative self esteem is one of the most common and serious problems associated with this disorder. When these negative feelings are reinforced in the school, by peers, and by parents reaction to their behaviors, the probability is high for developing progressively more serious and risky behaviors as these kids approach their teenage years.
 
With treatment the individual with ADHD can function better in school, work, and home environments and feel better about themselves.