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What is ADHD? - According to the National Institute of Mental Health, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is "a brain disorder marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development."

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Recurrent cases - ADHD is more common in men than in women. But women with ADHD are more likely to have problems, such as attention deficiency.

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Diagnosis - Only a correct and precise diagnosis can lead to effective treatment options, taking into consideration long-term needs as well as short-term emergencies.

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Diagnostic -

There are many other disorders whose symptoms resemble ADHD's, hence why a correct diagnosis is so important.

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Hyperactivity - Hyperactivity is one of ADHD's most familiar traits, which results in restlessness, even in inappropriate situations.

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Hyperactivity -

ADHD-diagnosed people may shift, touch, and talk excessively. In adults, it may come off as extreme restlessness.

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Impulsiveness - These people tend to be impulsive and do things without thinking about consequences, or desiring a feeling of immediate reward.

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Absence of mind - They tend to struggle with focusing or finishing a task.

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Difficulties - There are other ADHD symptoms one must be aware of, such as learning difficulties.

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Symptoms - Depression is also a symptom in people suffering from ADHD.

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Symptoms - Chronic anxiety can also be a symptom.

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Symptoms - The abuse of chemical substances may contribute to a development in the disorder.

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Symptoms - If a person shows unstable behavior frequently, it can also be a sign of ADHD.

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Risk factors - Scientists haven't yet discovered ADHD's direct causes, but genetics are a significant contributor.

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Risk factors - Women who smoke whilst pregnant can also increase the risk of their baby developing ADHD.

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Risk factors -

Alcohol and drug consumption during pregnancy are also risk factors.

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Risk factors - Exposure to environmental toxins, such as high levels of lead, during pregnancy can also be an indirect cause.

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Risk factors -

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, low birth weights can also trigger ADHD.

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Risk factors - Brain damages can also be one of ADHD's causes, although that's also not a definitive factor.

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No cure - According to the National Institute of Mental Health, there is no cure for ADHD. However, there are treatments that can ease the symptoms.

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Treatment - Medication helps reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness and improve the person's ability to focus and learn. But medication isn't enough to reach good results.

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Treatment - There are multiple approaches to the available treatments, which can be used at the same time, including psychotherapy, education, and training.

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Treatment -

Support groups can help parents and families connect to others with similar problems.

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Treatment - Parents should also undertake behavioral training, so they can learn all the skills needed to deal with their children's needs.

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Treatment - Behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that helps someone change their behavior. It may include a practical part, such as help organizing tasks or completing school work, but it can also help someone work through some particularly emotional situations.

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Stress management methods - Stress management can help parents deal with the frustration they may experience while handling their children's somewhat unstable behavior.

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Tips - Both parents and teachers can help ADHD children stay organized. For instance, keeping a routine and a schedule from morning to bed time are great ideas.

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Tips - Parents must keep their behavior consistent and clear, as ADHD children need firm rules they can understand and follow.

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Tips -

It is also recommended that parents reward their children when they follow the rules, as ADHD kids are always heavily criticized and expect that to happen all the time.

Sources: (NIMH)

See also: What your child's teacher wants you to know

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