What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects up to 7% of the student population, with boys being diagnosed three times more often than girls. Research indicates that girls may hide the symptoms better due to their greater ability to manage emotions. Neurodevelopmental disorders refer to atypical brain development or disruptions and injuries during maturation. Therefore, ADHD originates early in life, with the first symptoms often appearing during the child’s development. However, it is not uncommon for these symptoms to be overlooked, and children are sometimes labeled as “naughty,” “hyperactive,” “bad company,” or “disobedient.” The key challenge is distinguishing between a “naughty” or “energetic” child and one who actually has ADHD.
Categories and Developmental Stages of ADHD
ADHD is classified into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, with the last two typically examined together. To make a diagnosis, there needs to be symptoms present in at least one of these categories, as a child can be inattentive without being hyperactive.
Developmentally, a child with ADHD may be labeled as a “difficult infant” from an early age, showing symptoms such as irregular sleep patterns, difficulty transitioning from milk to solid foods, and heightened motor activity. These symptoms are present in more than 50% of infants, which is why the diagnosis is not typically made before the age of 3. In early childhood, a child with ADHD is likely to be accident-prone, delayed in speech, clumsy, impulsive, and more. As they enter school, the child may struggle with concentration, exhibit learning difficulties, show diminished motivation, or display aggressive behaviors. During adolescence, hyperactivity and impulsivity may decrease, while delinquent behaviors might increase.
Characteristics of ADHD
Understanding the characteristics of an individual with ADHD helps manage the condition more effectively. It’s important to note that a person with ADHD exhibits consistent symptoms, and these are not a result of intelligence, laziness, or intentional behavior. Symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, as well as difficulties in social adaptation and academic performance. The person may experience dysfunction in working memory, lack of organization, behavioral and emotional difficulties, and indecisiveness. Interestingly, an individual with ADHD may also exhibit excessive concentration on specific activities, which can seem paradoxical.
Risk Factors
As a neurodevelopmental disorder, research suggests that the development of ADHD is influenced by biological factors, genetics, and the environment in which the person grows up. While an individual may have a genetic or biological predisposition for ADHD, a stable, structured environment can help reduce the severity of the disorder, making the symptoms more manageable.
Diagnosis and Treatment
ADHD can be diagnosed in both children and adults. For children, diagnosis is typically made based on a history and questionnaires filled out by parents and teachers, while for adults, it involves clinical interviews and the completion of questionnaires. Several parameters are taken into account during the diagnosis and assessment of ADHD.
Regarding treatment, significant progress has been made with pharmacological treatments that help control ADHD symptoms and improve daily functioning. Psychological support and therapy are also recommended, both for the individual with ADHD and for their significant others and caregivers. Therapy provides a space for individuals to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment and teaches coping strategies.
The first and most important step in managing a diagnosis or disorder and its associated symptoms is acceptance. Recognizing and accepting the condition is key to developing effective strategies for coping and living with ADHD.
