Adhd what is it

What is ADHD?

ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active.

COVID-19: Information for parenting children with ADHD

Signs and Symptoms

It is normal for children to have trouble focusing and behaving at one time or another. However, children with ADHD do not just grow out of these behaviors. The symptoms continue, can be severe, and can cause difficulty at school, at home, or with friends.

A child with ADHD might:

Get information and support from the National Resource Center on ADHD

Types

There are three different ways ADHD presents itself, depending on which types of symptoms are strongest in the individual:

Because symptoms can change over time, the presentation may change over time as well.

Learn about symptoms of ADHD, how ADHD is diagnosed, and treatment recommendations including behavior therapy, medication, and school support.

Causes of ADHD

Scientists are studying cause(s) and risk factors in an effort to find better ways to manage and reduce the chances of a person having ADHD. The cause(s) and risk factors for ADHD are unknown, but current research shows that genetics plays an important role. Recent studies link genetic factors with ADHD. 1

In addition to genetics, scientists are studying other possible causes and risk factors including:

Research does not support the popularly held views that ADHD is caused by eating too much sugar, watching too much television, parenting, or social and environmental factors such as poverty or family chaos. Of course, many things, including these, might make symptoms worse, especially in certain people. But the evidence is not strong enough to conclude that they are the main causes of ADHD.

Diagnosis

Deciding if a child has ADHD is a process with several steps. There is no single test to diagnose ADHD, and many other problems, like anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and certain types of learning disabilities, can have similar symptoms. One step of the process involves having a medical exam, including hearing and vision tests, to rule out other problems with symptoms like ADHD. Diagnosing ADHD usually includes a checklist for rating ADHD symptoms and taking a history of the child from parents, teachers, and sometimes, the child.

Treatments

In most cases, ADHD is best treated with a combination of behavior therapy and medication. For preschool-aged children (4-5 years of age) with ADHD, behavior therapy, particularly training for parents, is recommended as the first line of treatment before medication is tried. What works best can depend on the child and family. Good treatment plans will include close monitoring, follow-ups, and making changes, if needed, along the way.

Managing Symptoms: Staying Healthy

Being healthy is important for all children and can be especially important for children with ADHD. In addition to behavioral therapy and medication, having a healthy lifestyle can make it easier for your child to deal with ADHD symptoms. Here are some healthy behaviors that may help:

Get Help!

If you or your doctor has concerns about ADHD, you can take your child to a specialist such as a child psychologist, child psychiatrist, or developmental pediatrician, or you can contact your local early intervention agency (for children under 3) or public school (for children 3 and older).

For more information on services for children with special needs, visit the Center for Parent Information and Resources. To find the Parent Center near you, you can visit this website.

ADHD in Adults

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

In this Article

What Is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a brain disorder that affects how you pay attention, sit still, and control your behavior. It happens in children and teens and can continue into adulthood.

ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder in children. Boys are more likely to have it than girls. It’s usually spotted during the early school years, when a child begins to have problems paying attention.

ADHD can’t be prevented or cured. But spotting it early, plus having a good treatment and education plan, can help a child or adult with ADHD manage their symptoms.

ADHD Symptoms

Symptoms in children

Symptoms are grouped into three types:

Inattentive. A child with ADHD:

Hyperactive-impulsive. A child with ADHD:

Combined. This involves signs of both other types.

Symptoms in adults

Symptoms of ADHD may change as a person gets older. They include:

ADHD vs. ADD

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is the old name for ADHD. It was officially changed in the 1990s. Some people still use both names to talk about this one condition.

ADHD Causes

Experts aren’t sure what causes ADHD. Several things may lead to it, including:

Sugar doesn’t cause ADHD. ADHD also isn’t caused by too much TV, a stressful home life, poor schools, or food allergies.

ADHD Diagnosis and Testing

It can be hard to diagnose ADHD, especially in children. No one test will spot it. Doctors diagnose ADHD in children and teens after discussing symptoms at length with the child, parents, and teachers, and then observing the child’s behaviors.

Doctors use the American Psychiatric Association’s guidelines, which are based on how many symptoms a person has and how long they’ve had them. They’ll also rule out other things that may be causing the symptoms, such as health conditions or problems in daily life.

To confirm a diagnosis of ADHD or learning differences, a child may take a battery of tests to check their neurological and psychological status. The tests should be given by a pediatrician or mental health provider with experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD. Your primary care doctor might refer you to a specialist such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or psychotherapist. The tests may include:

ADHD Treatment

There are several approaches to treating ADHD. But research suggests that for many children, the best way to manage symptoms is a multimodal approach. This involves multiple methods of treatment that work together. Many symptoms of ADHD can be managed with medication and therapy. Close cooperation among therapists, doctors, teachers, and parents is very important.

Medication. Although there is controversy about their possible overuse, stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for treating ADHD. They can help control hyperactive and impulsive behavior and improve attention span. They act on the brain chemicals, like dopamine, that can make impulsive behavior worse.

Stimulant medications don’t work for everyone with ADHD. People older than 6 may take nonstimulant medications such as:

In some cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants, such as drugs called SSRIs, bupropion (Wellbutrin), or venlafaxine (Effexor).

Side effects of ADHD medicines can include:

Most side effects are minor and improve with time. In some cases, doctors may lower a dosage to ease side effects.

In rare cases, stimulants can have more serious side effects. For instance, some are linked to a higher risk of heart problems and death in children with heart disease. They may also make psychiatric conditions like depression or anxiety worse, or cause a psychotic reaction.

Before your child starts an ADHD medicine, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. Remember that it can take some trial and error to find the right medicine and dose.

Therapy. These treatments focus on changing behavior.

Medical device. The FDA has approved the Monarch external Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation (eTNS) System for children 7 to 12 who aren’t taking ADHD medications. It’s about the size of a cellphone and is attached to electrodes on a patch that you put on a child’s forehead. It sends low-level impulses to the part of their brain that’s thought to cause ADHD. The device is usually worn at night.

Support groups of people with similar problems and needs can help you learn more about ADHD and how to manage your symptoms. These groups are helpful for adults with ADHD or parents of children with ADHD.

Education and ADHD. Educating parents about the disorder and its management is another important part of ADHD treatment. This may include learning parenting skills to help a child manage their behavior. In some cases, the child’s entire family may be involved.

Natural remedies

Dietary supplements with omega-3s have shown some benefit for people who have ADHD.

A few lifestyle changes can also help you or your child manage symptoms:

It’s common to get frustrated when you’re raising a child with ADHD. You’ll feel more in control if you take an active part in your child’s treatment. It may help for you to:

ADHD Outlook

Without treatment, ADHD can make it hard to deal with the challenges of everyday life. Children may have trouble learning or developing social skills. Adults could have problems with relationships and addiction. The disorder could also lead to mood swings, depression, low self-esteem, eating disorders, risk-taking, and conflicts with people around you.

But many people who have ADHD live happy, full lives. Treatment helps.

It’s important to keep track of your symptoms and see your doctor regularly. Sometimes, medication and treatments that were once effective stop working. You may need to change your treatment plan. Some people’s symptoms get better in early adulthood, and some are able to stop treatment.

Show Sources

American Academy of Family Physicians: «ADHD: What Parents Should Know.»

Attention Deficit Disorder Resources: «Behavioral Treatment for ADHD.»

CHADD: «Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.»

National Resource Center on ADHD: «Symptoms and Diagnostic Criteria,» «Treatment Overview.»

National Institute of Mental Health: «Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder,» «What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?» «Questions Raised about Stimulants and Sudden Death.»

FDA: “FDA permits marketing of first brain wave test to help assess children and teens for ADHD,” «Risks for ADHD Drugs Outlined in Patient Guides.»

CDC: “What is ADHD?” “Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD.”

National Alliance on Mental Illness: “Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).”

Attention Deficit Disorder Association: “ADHD: The Facts.”

American Psychiatric Association: “What Is ADHD?”

Johns Hopkins Medicine: «Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children.»

Journal of Attention Disorders: “A Physical Activity Program Improves Behavior and Cognitive Functions in Children With ADHD: An Exploratory Study.”

HEARD Alliance: «Inattention and Impulsivity.»

Journal of Pediatric Neuroscience: “Management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.”

Child Mind Institute: “Behavioral Treatments for Kids with ADHD.”

HelpGuide.org: “ADD/ADHD Parenting Tips,” «ADD & ADHD Medications.»

Neuroscience for Kids: «ADHD Gets Some Attention.»

U.S. Department of Education: «Identifying and Treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Resource for School and Home.»

American Academy of Pediatrics: «National Institute of Mental Health Multimodal Treatment Study of ADHD Follow-Up: Changes in Effectiveness and Growth After the End of Treatment.»

News release, FDA.

Heart Rhythm Society.

American Academy of Pediatrics.

Medscape: «Once-Daily Guanfacine Approved to Treat ADHD.»

Attention Deficit Disorder Resources: «Medication Management for Adults with ADHD.»

What Is ADHD? Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adults

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder that impacts the parts of the brain that help us plan, focus on, and execute tasks. ADHD symptoms vary by sub-type — inattentive, hyperactive, or combined — and are often more difficult to diagnose in girls and adults. Here, we review the symptoms, causes, types, and tests associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Verified Medically reviewed by William Dodson, M.D., LF-APA Updated on July 11, 2022

What Is ADHD? Meaning & Symptoms

ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a complex brain disorder that impacts approximately 11% of children and almost 5% of adults in the U.S. 1 ADHD is a developmental impairment of the brain’s executive functions. People with ADHD have trouble with impulse-control, focusing, and organization.

Neuroscience, brain imaging, and clinical research tell us a few important things: ADHD is not a behavior disorder. ADHD is not a mental illness. ADHD is not a specific learning disability. ADHD is, instead, a developmental impairment of the brain’s self-management system. Both adults and children can be diagnosed with ADHD.

ADHD Symptoms

ADHD symptoms vary by individual. You or your child may experience all or just some of the above symptoms, along with others detailed in the DSM-V.

Many patients and clinicians describe ADHD as an iceberg, where most symptoms lay hiding under the surface — out of sight but ever present. If you think you or a loved one might have ADHD, take one of our free, anonymous tests below to see if you should seek a formal diagnosis.

What Are the 3 Types of ADHD?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) 2 previously identified three types of ADHD:

Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD

People with primarily hyperactive-impulsive ADHD act “as if driven by a motor” with little impulse control — moving, squirming, and talking at even the most inappropriate times. They are impulsive, impatient, and interrupt others.

Primarily Inattentive ADHD (Formerly ADD)

People with the inattentive subtype of ADHD have difficulty focusing, finishing tasks, and following instructions. They are easily distracted and forgetful. They may be daydreamers who lose track of homework, cell phones, and conversations with regularity.

Experts believe that many children with the inattentive subtype of ADHD may go undiagnosed because they do not tend to disrupt the learning environment.

Primarily Combined Type ADHD

Individuals with combined-type ADHD display a mixture of all the symptoms outlined above. A physician will diagnose patients with this Combined Type ADHD, of they meet the guidelines for Primarily Inattentive ADHD and Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD. That is, they must exhibit 6 of the 9 symptoms identified for each sub-type.

How Do Physicians Diagnose the Type of ADHD?

These subtypes are now considered “presentations” in the most recent version of the DSM, the DSM-V. Researchers determined that people often move from one subtype to another. For example, a child may present as primarily hyperactive-impulsive in preschool, and lose much of the hyperarousal in adolescence to fit the primarily inattentive presentation. In college and adulthood, the same individual may transition to combined presentation.

The subtypes were primarily based on overt behavioral symptoms, and ignored less visible symptoms like emotional dysregulation, cognitive patterns, and sleep difficulties. Behavioral symptoms imperfectly capture the defining features of ADHD. Non-behavioral characteristics are increasingly recognized in research and diagnosis.

What Are the Symptoms of Each ADHD Subtype?

What Are the 9 Symptoms of ADHD – Primarily Inattentive Type?

What Are the 9 Symptoms of ADHD – Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive Type?

What Causes ADHD?

The causes of ADHD remain somewhat unclear. Research suggests that genetics and heredity play a large part in determining who gets ADHD. 4 However, scientists are still investigating whether certain genes, especially ones linked to the neurotransmitter dopamine, play a defined role in developing ADHD.

Additional research suggests that exposure to certain chemicals may increase a child’s risk of having ADHD. 5

ADHD is not caused by bad parenting, too much sugar, or too many video games. ADHD is a brain-based, biological disorder. Brain imaging studies and other research show many physiological differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD. 6

How is ADHD Diagnosed?

There is no single test for ADHD. To make a diagnosis, your doctor will assess for any ADHD symptoms exhibited by you or your child in the past six months. They will also do a physical exam and review your medical history to rule out any other medical or psychiatric conditions that could be causing symptoms.

Your doctor or specialists will perform an assessment using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), which details the symptoms listed above.

ADHD Diagnosis in Children

A child may be diagnosed with ADHD only if he or she exhibits at least six of nine symptoms outlined in DSM-V, and if the symptoms have been noticeable for at least six months in two or more settings — for example, at home and at school. What’s more, the symptoms must interfere with the child’s functioning or development, and at least some of the symptoms must have been apparent before age 12. Most children with ADHD receive a diagnosis in elementary school.

When diagnosing a child, your doctor or specialist may also review school records and questionnaires completed by your child’s teacher and/or caretakers. They will likely talk with and observe your child, as well as conduct screening for learning disabilities. They will also rule out other conditions that share similar symptoms to ADHD.

ADHD Diagnosis in Adults

Older teens and adults may need to consistently demonstrate just five of these symptoms in multiple settings. For an adolescent or adult to receive a diagnosis of ADHD, the symptoms need to have been present before the age of 12. Symptoms must also not be better explained by another disorder.

ADHD in Children

The symptoms of ADHD are often identified at school, as many children with ADHD have difficulty succeeding in a classroom setting. While teachers cannot diagnose ADHD, they are often the first to suspect ADHD in children as the symptoms typically affect school performance or disrupt the rest of the class.

Many symptoms of ADHD can be typical childhood behaviors, so it can be difficult to know if a child is displaying ADHD symptoms. Children with primarily hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may initially be seen as disruptive or misbehaving, as they are often hyper, impulsive, and impatient, and may interrupt at inappropriate times.

Adult ADHD

ADHD is diagnosed in roughy 4.4% of the adult population in the U.S., although this figure is thought to be underreported, as up to 85% of children with ADHD are at risk for having the disorder as adults, and only 10.9% of adults with ADHD receive treatment. 9

Untreated ADHD in adults can negatively impact many aspects of life, including work, relationships, and mental health. Symptoms such as trouble managing time, impatience, disorganization, forgetfulness, and mood swings can all cause problems for an individual not actively taking steps to manage their ADHD.

ADHD Treatment

The best treatment strategies for ADHD are multimodal ones — combinations of several different, complementary approaches that work together to reduce symptoms. For one person, this ideal combination may include ADHD medication, nutrition, exercise, and behavioral therapy. For another, it may mean taking ADHD supplements and vitamins, practicing mindfulness, and spending lots of time outdoors in nature.

Finding the right ADHD treatments — and managing them — takes research, planning, organization, and persistence. Early on, talk with your child’s doctor about your options.

ADHD Medication

For children aged 6 and over or adults, medication may be an important part of the treatment plan. Finding the right medication to manage ADHD typically involves some trial and error but can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms.

The two main types of medication used to treat ADHD are stimulants and non-stimulants.

Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, like Ritalin or Adderall, are the most prescribed ADHD medications. These ADHD medications work by increasing the amounts of the chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which help with focus. There are three categories of stimulant medications:

If stimulants cause problematic side effects, or simply are not effective, your doctor may suggest trying a non-stimulant medication, like Strattera or Intuniv.

Non-stimulant ADHD medications are considered second-line or third-line treatments because the level of benefits and response rates are significantly lower. Meaning, stimulant medications are more effective at relieving symptoms for a larger percentage of people.

ADHD medications can have many benefits, as well as side effects. The decision to manage ADHD symptoms with medication can be a difficult one. Learn more about the risks and benefits of stimulants and non-stimulants, medication options, how to gauge effectiveness, and more.

What Is the Definition of ADHD?

“Attention deficit” is, some experts assert, a misleading name. “Attention deregulation” might be a more accurate description since most people with ADHD have more than enough attention — they just can’t harness it in the right direction at the right time with any consistency. And so individuals with ADHD hyperfocus and lose track of time, or misplace their keys, or blurt out an unrelated thought when their focus breaks free from its chains.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

“I am confused and do not know what to do next. My son is 8 years old, goes to a regular school, is very active, ants in his pants, and always has been like that. He’s clever, but at the same time very absent-minded and inattentive. He makes mistakes writing down a task from the board. If you need to say something to him, you have to take him by the hand and wait until he looks back, otherwise he will not hear anything. And what the teacher says also misses his ears. Because of this, his grades are already bad, and it is only the second year. He talks a lot; sometimes he can even fall asleep in the middle of a phrase in the evening. In also talks a lot in class, sliding down the desk, knocking there and muttering to himself. And other parents are already pushing me, because he bothers all children in class! I don’t understand what to do next. The neurologist said that the child had ADHD and prescribed glycine, we took the course, but there were no changes, the child remained as hyperactive as he was, so what should I do? How to help my son and myself?”

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is one of the most common disorders in children. According to various sources, it is diagnosed in 5-7% of children [1] of school age worldwide, and 4 times more often in boys than in girls. About 60% of children with ADHD do not outgrow it [2] and retain all the symptoms in adulthood (yes, adults also have this syndrome, and often). We note right away that not all specialists “believe” in this diagnosis, but nevertheless, ADHD is included in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) and lends itself to medical and behavioral correction.

Let’s try to understand what exactly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is, what symptoms and problems accompany it, how to diagnose it and how to treat a hyperactive child. Let’s talk about what we as parents can do to make our lives and the lives of our children easier and more enjoyable.

ADHD – what is it and how to diagnose it

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children is a neurological developmental disorder that manifests itself in childhood, meaning that it cannot begin to develop in adolescence or adulthood. Symptoms are always found already at preschool age, but most often it is the beginning of schooling that becomes a serious test. It is difficult for children with ADHD to concentrate, to stay at one place during the lesson, they are impulsive and have difficulty controlling their desires and emotions; for example, they can get up and walk around the classroom, shout out, sing songs not only at music lessons, and so on.

Despite the fact that the problem is rather widespread, cases of incorrect diagnosis are quite common. Either hyperactive children are not diagnosed with ADHD and then parents just get advice “to parent their children properly and be more strict”, or this diagnosis is made to an ordinary active child with prescribing unnecessary medications.

“Everything was already clear in kindergarten. I was distracted in class and interrupted daytime sleep. But they told me that this is just bad behavior, and that I need to be educated properly. This continued at school, teachers constantly scolded me, said that “you just have to try”; they made me sit at the back desk, from where nothing was visible at all. I constantly blamed myself for not being able to organize myself; I did not know how to explain to my family that I simply could not do what they asked me to. I can’t sit still for 40 minutes, I can’t do my homework for 2 hours and not be distracted, I can’t stop myself when I want to get up. I only found out about ADHD when I was 29, and I was finally able to breathe. Now I am undergoing treatment and learning to control my behavior and I am very sorry that no one told me in childhood that everything was fine with me, and this is a condition for which I am not to blame”.

We will teach you the ability to be calm and attentive

Some adults think that their children behave this way because they are spiteful or spoiled, and parents just do not know how to calm their hyperactive child. But in reality, the advice “just try and pull yourself together” does not work. Many children can tell themselves how to behave at school – they hear and understand all the instructions perfectly. “Don’t twist around, sit upright, don’t twitch, don’t get up, write, watch carefully,” but as soon as it comes down to business, they really cannot follow all these rules.

“It is a cry from the soul. I heard 100 times that I need to teach my son better, and then everything will be fine, that I just need to tell him: “Do your homework and go to bed on time”, and then he will immediately do so. As if I didn’t really know what I needed to say. All children are different, and the reasons for similar behavior may be different. If some method worked for you, it doesn’t mean that others didn’t try it; maybe it just didn’t work for them. We all wander around in the dark and look for what suits the child, which doctor will feel him and choose the right treatment. We train, treat, look for ways to rehabilitate our children, but the circumstances and resources are different for everyone. Finances, relatives, place of residence, parents’ health – it all matters”.

I would like to immediately warn parents against making a diagnosis “according to the book”. There are situations when, for example, it seems to parents that the child should be calm and quiet (we were just like that, right?), And he/she turns out to be active and inquisitive. And parents are surprised: “How come? The child does not want to assemble the puzzle for an hour? He probably has hyperactivity”.

Of course, you may suspect that your child has ADHD, but in order to be convinced of this, it is necessary to visit doctors – a neurologist and a psychiatrist. They will confirm or refute your suspicions. If you think the doctor was wrong, visit another doctor to get a second opinion. It is important that the doctor really tries to find an individual approach to your child, takes into account the circumstances and developmental peculiarities, and does not prescribe medications for show.

Classification of ADHD

The name ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, can be misleading. You might think that a child with this syndrome must be inattentive and hyperactive. In fact, when making a diagnosis, the signs of hyperactivity and attention deficit in a child are considered separately.

ICD-11 [3] (International Classification of Diseases) and DSM-5 [4] (American Psychiatric Association) distinguish following types of ADHD:

Why ADHD begins

There are many misconceptions about the causes of this syndrome. One of the main ones is that this syndrome is fully and completely the result of the child’s behavioral problems – they were not educated, taught or restricted. But this is not so. We repeat, ADHD is a dysfunction of the brain. [5]

Even the brain structure of people with ADHD can be different – a thinner cortex that provides attention and control over their behavior. There are also abnormalities in the production of dopamine, which helps the brain switch from one task to another and concentrate.

And when a schoolchild says that they cannot concentrate, they really cannot concentrate, because, for example, the brain did not provide enough “chemicals” to concentrate or makes poor use of it. Of course, mistakes in upbringing can aggravate the symptoms, but don’t serve as a reason for the development of these disorders.

Sometimes ADHD is perceived as a delayed maturation disorder [5], since the behavior of children and adults with this syndrome seems immature and appropriate for a younger age (for example, if a child cannot sit at one place being 3-4 years old, this is a physiological norm, but the same restlessness of a child being 8-9 old is perceived as a behavioral disorder).

So what is the cause of these violations?

There is no definite answer, but there are some risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing ADHD.

Symptoms of ADHD in children

All symptoms, depending on the type of syndrome, can be divided into 2 groups: attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity disorder in children and / or impulsivity. [12]

Signs of attention deficit

Children with this problem display the following features:

Signs of hyperactivity

Hyperactivity in children can be recognized by its characteristic manifestations:

Combined type

According to the DSM-5 classification, children with this type of ADHD have more than 6 symptoms from each group of the above symptoms. [4]

Symptoms depending on age

Preschoolers (period when ADHD can be suspected a priori):

Elementary school (hyperactivity correction is advisable to start no later than this period):

Mandatory conditions for diagnosis

There is no single test for accurate diagnosis. A doctor (usually a psychiatrist) makes a diagnosis based on several sources:

For example, if a child starts the 1st year and seems restless and absent-minded for 2-3 months, but at the same time behaves at home as usual, is attentive and calm, then talking about ADHD is early.

A cause for concern is a behavior uncharacteristic of the age of the schoolchild. For example, children in elementary school can run along the corridor during a break or fidget in a chair by the last lesson, but if a schoolchild cannot sit for just 5 minutes, you should start paying attention.

Also, the basis for the diagnosis is the behavior of the schoolchild, which negatively affects them, their interaction with people around them and the quality of education. In this case, constant physical activity in combination with the 7Spsy behavior modification technique – a method of behavioral therapy – will help correct the behavior.

Pseudo-ADHD

When diagnosing ADHD, it is also important to take into account that some other diseases and conditions can give similar symptoms [13], for example, poor performance can be caused by problems with vision or dyslexia, aggressiveness and sleep problems – by severe stress, and inattention and distraction – by impaired functions of thyroid gland. Therefore, you should undergo a full examination and exclude conditions that give similar symptoms, but require a different treatment than ADHD.

Problems that accompany ADHD

Learning difficulties

The main and most obvious problem a child with ADHD has is difficulty in learning. The schoolchild may forget to write down the task, inattentively listens to the teacher, is distracted; because of this, he/she may not have time to complete a test paper and so on. All this affects the performance, quality of assimilation of the material and relations with the teacher.

Conflicts with brothers and sisters

Children with ADHD often conflict with siblings [14], and family relationships become less warm and friendly. This is caused to some extent by impulsivity and inability to control their actions.

Sleep problems

Poor sleep can be either a separate symptom of ADHD, or aggravate the manifestations of this syndrome [15]. For example, schoolchildren who sleep little and poorly can be even more restless than ones with ADHD who have good quality sleep.

Disorders or diseases

Up to 87% of children with ADHD [15] have at least one concomitant mental disorder; up to 20% of children have three or more: anxiety, depression, autism, obsessive actions, tics, and so on.

ADHD alone and in combination with poor sleep can contribute to the development of anxiety and depressive disorders [16].

Anger and child aggression

The presence of ADHD in the schoolchild and at least one concomitant disorder makes him/her angrier, quick-tempered [17], which is associated with increased emotionality and problems with self-regulation of emotions [18].

Smoking, alcoholism, drug use

Impulsivity increases the risk of developing bad habits: smoking and the use of prohibited substances in adolescents. ADHD diagnosed between 11-14 years old significantly increases the risk of addiction [19] by 18.

Can ADHD be cured: a long-term prognosis

Up to 30% of children outgrow ADHD completely, treatment of hyperactivity for most children proves effective – the symptoms disappear, but inattention can become habitual behavior and go into adulthood.

Moreover, the child’s behavior will not necessarily be the same throughout life. Stressful situations (exams, tests) can aggravate the condition, and during the holidays or in the middle of the school year the schoolchild will feel better.

It is important to conduct a comprehensive treatment of ADHD in children: medical support, correction of schoolchildren’s behavior using behavioral therapy, for example, using the 7Spsy technique-based behavioral modification course, changing child-rearing style, and, if possible, correcting educational work with hyperactive children and changing attitudes towards them by teachers. It is this approach that can give the maximum effect.

ADHD correction

Since the difficulties for a schoolchild with this syndrome are complex and affect not only study, but also health, friendship, communication with relatives, the treatment of hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder in children should be comprehensive, as we said earlier.

Which doctors to visit

It is important to make an appointment with the following specialists:

In addition to these doctors, you may be invited to visit a neuropsychologist, a defectologist or a neuropsychiatrist.

But what should parents do if their children are hyperactive, in addition to visiting doctors?

What parents can do

It will be very difficult for a schoolchild to cope with problems without the help of parents. Therefore, it is important not only to treat hyperactivity in children of school age with pills, but also to help them adapt to school life. What needs to be done for this?

What could help here:

2. Create a relaxed atmosphere in the family. A schoolchild’s problems with ADHD bring chaos and confusion into family life per se. But it is better to consider the condition of the child with understanding. Treatment is important, but interpersonal relationships and an atmosphere of unconditional love allow children to achieve the greatest results. Seek help from a psychologist if something is stopping you from accepting and loving your child as he/she is.

3. Implement simple and straightforward rules. The more structured the schoolchild’s life, the easier it will be for him/her to adapt and maintain self-control. Regular hours, daily routine, family traditions will make the child’s life more predictable and calm.

4. Tell the children what is happening to them. Often children are frightened of their condition and upset because they cannot behave as calmly as other children do. Understanding what is happening to them can already improve the condition and reduce anxiety. It is important to talk about ADHD with schoolchildren [20], not to blame them and not to label them.

5.Use psychological therapy. Even if your doctor has not referred the child to a psychologist, find a good specialist yourself. A comprehensive MTA study, which was designed to analyze all methods of treating ADHD and identify the most effective of them, showed that behavioral therapy gives very good results in combination with drug treatment [21] (better than just taking medication or just therapy). As a result, children undergoing a course of behavioral therapy took less medication and better adapted to school life.

And in situations where the diagnosis of ADHD is wrong and there is no real brain disorder, behavioral therapy can be an effective way to help a hyperactive child change his/her behavior.

Why is this type of therapy better?

Behavioral psychology is not aimed at searching for causes (and the causes in this case are organic – impaired brain function), but at changing behavior. For example, an impulsive schoolchild will be able to master techniques that will help him/her restrain and control outbursts of anger.

We will teach you the ability to be calm and attentive

One of the methods of behavioral therapy is the patented 7Spsy behavior modification technique, which was created to teach children with ADHD to control and change their behavior. Children take classes independently, at home, and our psychologists will answer questions and support children in online chats, by phone and by e-mail. This format of work is more effective than short-term weekly visits to a full-time psychologist, since the schoolchild works every day and can turn to a specialist for help at any time.

Taking the course of ADHD correction will allow you to free up a little more time in order to take care of yourself and restore energy.

About medication: what works and what doesn’t

Therefore, it is highly likely that such treatment for ADHD will not help, and your children’s symptoms may continue. Reviews on forums are also very controversial. Some mothers noted improvements, but in these cases, medication was almost always accompanied by intensive activities with children

In the USA, Israel and Europe, psychostimulants are used (the first study on their use was published in 1937), which have proved effective, but they are banned in Russia, therefore one of the most effective drugs [23] for treating ADHD, from the point of view of evidence-based medicine, is atomoxetine (trade name “Strattera”). It is a noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, that is, a drug that normalizes the “chemistry” of the brain. Do not prescribe treatment yourself! Take the drug only as directed by your doctor!

Also, for the treatment of attention deficit disorder, including in children, antidepressants that normalize the work of hormones and neurotransmitters can be prescribed. In very rare cases, for example, to treat tics or control severe aggression, antipsychotics can be prescribed.

To doubt the decision of a doctor is normal. If something causes you doubt or questions – discuss your concerns and doubts with him/her or seek a second opinion from another specialist.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Also known as ADHD

Akeem Marsh, MD, is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who has dedicated his career to working with medically underserved communities.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurobehavioral condition that is usually first diagnosed during childhood. More than six million children between the ages of two and 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD.   It is characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that make it difficult for people to pay attention and control their behaviors.

ADHD is a lifelong condition. While symptoms do change with time, they can still interfere with an adult’s functioning. Relationships, health, work, and finances are just a few areas that may be impacted. There are treatment options, including medications and therapies, as well as coping strategies that can help you to live well with ADHD.

Getting Support for ADHD

Frequently Asked Questions

The exact causes of ADHD are not known but experts believe there are a number of factors at play. Genetics are thought to play a significant role in causing ADHD, but environmental factors also contribute and often interact with genetic predispositions. Factors that can increase the risk of ADHD include certain illnesses such as meningitis, exposure to toxins such as lead, and poor nutrition or substance use during pregnancy.

There is no simple lab test or questionnaire that can determine if a person has ADHD. Mental health professionals conduct an evaluation and can use a variety of tools including IQ tests, interviews, measures of attention, rating scales, and other assessments to evaluate symptoms and determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis.

ADHD is classified as a mental illness, but can also be described as a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is important to recognize that mental illness is a broad term that refers to any type of condition that impacts a person’s thoughts, moods, or behaviors. Because the three primary symptoms of ADHD—inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity—all impact these areas, ADHD is considered a form of mental illness.

There is a strong genetic component to ADHD. Estimates suggest that the genetic heritability of the condition is over 70%. However, having a genetic predisposition does not necessarily mean that you will develop ADHD. Research has found that there are several genes that play a role and it is the interaction of these genes along with environmental influences that may cause the disorder.

ADHD may be considered a disability according to the guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) if you have impairments that limit one or more major life activities (such as work or school). There must be a record of this impairment or others must be able to perceive these challenges. This means some people who have ADHD may request accommodations at work or school.

ADHD has gone through several name changes over the years and one of these former names was attention deficit disorder (ADD). While the term no longer represents an official diagnosis, it is still sometimes used to describe the inattentive presentation of the condition without hyperactivity. People with this presentation of the condition have trouble staying on task.