ADHD

An estimated 8% to 10% of school aged children have ADHD. Boys are 3 times more likely to be diagnosed with this disorder than girls. Children with ADHD have impaired functioning in multiple settings, including home, school, and in relationships with peers.

About ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD, is one of the most common mental disorders that develop in children. This disorder affects an estimated 8% to 10% of school aged children. Boys are 3 times more likely to be diagnosed with this disorder than girls. Children with ADHD have impaired functioning in multiple settings, including home, school, and in relationships with peers.

Kids with ADHD seem to act without thinking and are hyperactive and they have trouble focusing. The child with this disorder understands what is expected of them but, they have trouble following through because that cannot sit still, pay attention and attend to the details. If untreated, the disorder can have long-term adverse effects into adolescence and adulthood because it can impair a child’s ability to function academically, socially and at home.

Symptoms of ADHD will appear over the course of many months, and include:

Impulsiveness: a child who acts quickly without thinking first.
Hyperactivity: a child who can't sit still, walks, runs, or climbs around when others are seated, talks when others are talking.
Inattention: a child who daydreams or seems to be in another world, is sidetracked by what is going on around him or her.

Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the key behaviors of ADHD. Although it is normal for all children to be inattentive, hyperactive, or impulsive sometimes, children with ADHD symptoms are more severe and occur more often. To be diagnosed with the disorder, a child must have symptoms for 6 or more months and to a degree that is greater than other children of the same age.

How ADHD is diagnosed:

If ADHD is suspected, the diagnosis should be made by a professional with training in ADHD. This includes child psychiatrists, psychologists, developmental and behavioral pediatricians, behavioral neurologists, and clinical social workers. After ruling out other possible reasons for the child’s behavior, the specialist checks the child’s school and medical records and talks to teachers and parents who have filled out a behavior rating scale for the child. A diagnosis is made only after all this information has been considered.

ADHD Treatment:

Effective treatments for ADHD are available, and include behavioral therapy and medications. Currently available treatments focus on reducing the symptoms of ADHD and improving functioning. Treatments include medication, various types of psychotherapy, education or training, or a combination of treatments.

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