Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders of childhood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active. What makes ADHD different from other conditions is that the symptoms are excessive, pervasive and persistent.
Children with ADHD have difficulty performing well in school, interacting with other children, and following through on tasks. Adults with ADHD are often extremely distractible and have significant difficulties with organization. Deciding if a child has ADHD is a several step process. Talk with your child’s doctor or nurse, or a specialist such as a child psychologist, local early intervention agency or public school.
ADHD is a non-discriminatory disorder affecting people of every age, gender, IQ, religious and socio-economic background. Other mental health conditions can often occur along with ADHD such as anxiety disorder, depression, and sleep disorders. Left undiagnosed and untreated, ADHD can contribute to problems in succeeding in school and graduating, problems at work and with productivity, problems with law, more driving citations and accidents and problems with overeating and obesity. ADHD treatments focus on reducing the symptoms and improving functioning. Treatments include medication, various types of therapy, behavioral interventions, and educational support.
