ADHD is an acronym for Adult Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, which is a mental health condition seen mainly in children and adults. It involves an individual having difficulty paying attention, signs of hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.
It is regarded as one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders for children, yet it is underrated in countries such as Pakistan. This disorder can affect the way your brain functions and develops with age, while you may not have clear signs that could indicate that you have ADHD. ADHD can impact both the academic and professional performance of an individual, interpersonal relationships, and daily functions. (Harpin, 2005).
TYPES OF ADHD
Inattentive Form
The inattentive type of ADHD refers to having difficulties with focusing and management of tasks, and concentration issues. Doctors diagnose this kind of ADHD if there are at least six (or five for individuals who are 17 years old or older) of the mentioned symptoms below, experienced frequently:
- Lack of attention to detail or carelessness in academic or professional tasks.
- Inability to focus on activities, tasks or conversations.
- Lost in thoughts, especially when spoken to.
- Start working on a task or chore but immediately lose concentration.
- Poor time management and having a hard time organizing tasks and deadlines.
- Ignoring or disliking work that may require concentration and continuous mental effort.
- Forgetting or losing daily things.
- Being distracted quickly.
- Forgetting to do even small, daily tasks or appointments or deadlines.
Hyperactive/Impulsive Form
This type of ADHD involves hyperactivity – meaning unnecessary movements and impulsive behaviour – which involves making decisions or acting in a certain way without thinking ahead. Doctors diagnose this kind of ADHD if there are at least six (or five for individuals who are 17 years old or older) of the mentioned below symptoms, experienced frequently:
- Movements such as fidgeting or tapping feet or hands or feet.
- Running or climbing, where it is unfitting.
- Incapable to play or do leisure activities gently.
- Being talkative.
- Always engaged or active.
- Announcing an answer, even before the question is finished.
- Little or no patience in waiting for their turn.
- Interjects or interferes with others’ conversations etc. Older teens and adults may take charge of what others are doing.
Combined Form
This type of ADHD is a combination of both the forms of ADHD mentioned above – it is diagnosed based on both inattentive and hyperactive/impulse symptoms.
CAUSES OF ADHD
While there is no definite cause of ADHD, recent studies have found a link to genetic factors that may contribute to ADHD.
Furthermore, some other factors that could cause symptoms of ADHD include:
- Brain injury
- Exposure to environmental dangers such as lead during pregnancy or at a young age
- Exposure to alcohol or smoking use during pregnancy
- Premature delivery
- Low birth weight
ADHD In Adults
While this develops in childhood, ADHD can lead to adulthood. Because there aren’t clear signs or an individual may not be aware of their condition, especially as adults. However, the symptoms can have an impact at their work, personal or home life and even with relationships. These may differ at different points of life but they can get worse with age.
ADHD In Kids
If you think your child has signs of ADHD or has trouble concentrating at school and home, then you can talk to an expert doctor who can make an accurate diagnosis by testing and checking for the symptoms.
While there is no specific test for ADHD, there are many other mental health conditions that have similar symptoms, including depression, anxiety, insomnia and certain types of learning disabilities. However, the diagnosis of ADHD involves conducting a medical exam – hearing and vision tests, to eliminate other problems with symptoms like ADHD.
Additionally, a test for ADHD usually involves a checklist for assessing ADHD symptoms and checking the family history of the child from parents and teachers.
HOW TO COPE WITH ADHD AT HOME
For preschool or children aged between 4-5 years with ADHD, behavior therapy is better preferred, which mainly involves training for parents. Apart from that, parents can adopt certain habits and activities for kids, such as below:
- Incorporating healthy eating habits such as adding a good number of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein in their diet.
- Add some fun, daily exercises or age-appropriate physical activities.
- Restricting daily screen time hours for children.
- Getting a sufficient amount of sleep as per the kid’s age.
GET THE BEST TREATMENT AND CARE FROM EXPERT DOCTORS AT PSYCH CONSULTANTS
ADHD is best treated with a combination of behavior therapy and medication. But this differs upon the symptoms and age. it is best to seek professional help which involves treatment that requires close monitoring by parents or teachers at work, follow-ups, and making adjustments, if required.
Dealing with ADHD can be difficult. At Psych Consultants, we are here to help you improve and manage your symptoms with the best and most effective treatment plans. Our team of expert ADHD doctors specialize in both children and adults. Book an appointment with us today.