What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD is a developmental disorder with children who show extreme activity (hyperactivity), inattentive and do things without any thinking (impulsivity).

Millions of children are affected with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder the world over and boys are seen to be more affected than the girls. The ADHD symptoms are also known to continue into teenage and adulthood, which can lead to many complications in their life.

Even though millions are affected with ADHD, the scientific community and doctors are still to trace its real cause. Some say it is because of the genes and some others attribute the cause to brain problems. 

Normally ADHD is classified into three types according to the symptoms. The hyperactive impulsive ADHD is a type where the children show extreme activity. These children always engage in doing something and are often restless. Children affected with this type of ADHD react very spontaneously. Fidgeting, difficulty in playing quietly, difficulty in remaining seated, talkative and problems with interrupting are some of the signs noticed in hyperactive impulsive ADHD type.

Then there is the inattentive ADHD type, where the children are seen to lack concentration and interest in doing anything. These children often get bored of doing something after a while and they do not complete any task or learn anything new. They often find difficulty in following instructions and they make more errors.

The last type is the combined ADHP type, where children display both symptoms of hyperactive and inattentive ADHD types.

Well, diagnosing ADHD is a bit tough as it varies from one child to another. Physical tests cannot determine if your child has ADHD; only a constant watch of your child can determine if your child has ADHD or not. Even if your child may show the above-mentioned symptoms, you cannot assume that your child has ADHD. Only a paediatrician, psychiatrist, child specialist or a qualified mental health professional can determine whether your child has ADHD or not.

There is nothing to worry if your child is diagnosed with ADHD as there are several treatments and therapies available now. A combination of drugs, behavioural therapy and parenting helps in managing ADHD. The doctors usually prescribe Stimulants, Non- stimulants and Antidepressants. Well, it is always better to go for natural herbal drugs as they have no side effects.

Behaviour and cognitive therapy helps your child to control himself, think clearly and respond to situations. Parenting is another aspect that helps a great deal in managing ADHD. You should also get good support from your family and friends.