ADD / ADHD – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

What is ADHD?

This is a chronic disorder characterized by symptoms such as hyperactivity and usually begins in childhood. The symptoms often lead to difficulties in learning or social situations and the condition is diagnosed by satisfying certain criteria for behavioural, development, or learning disabilities.

There is not a definite cause for ADHD. Studies have shown differences in the structure of the brain between non-ADHD patients and ADHD patients. There may also be a genetic disposition.

Symptoms of ADHD

Symptoms of ADHD related to inattention may lead to the child finding difficulty in paying attention to tasks for long, making careless mistakes in homework, not obeying instructions, not appearing to be listening when spoken to, dislike of any activities that require mental effort or concentration of forgetfulness.

If the ADHD manifests itself though hyperactivity this may include fidgeting, running about, talking a lot, or the child leaving their seat when required to sit down for long periods (such as at school).

Impulsivity is also a common symptom resulting in difficulty in waiting for their turn, quickly answering before questions have even been finished and interrupting others when speaking or playing games.

Children need not display symptoms from all the categories to be diagnosed with ADHD.

Treatment of ADHD

Complementary and alternative medicines are often used in the treatment of ADHD. Behavioural treatments are also used, which involve psychotherapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy as well as parent and teacher training in behaviour management.

There are also a number of medications used to treat ADHD. These include antidepressant as well as psychostimulant medications. Occasionally medications are used in combination for those children suffering with related disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Prognosis For Those With ADHD

Research has shown that up to half as children will continue to experience ADHD symptoms into adulthood. Teens with the condition are more likely to have driving accidents, and many will have socialization problems when the condition follows them into adulthood. However, there is a lot of study currently going into these problems.