Attention-Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral
condition with behavioural symptoms such as attention difficulties,
hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. ADHD is a disorder that generally affects pre-schoolers and children, but it can continue through adolescence and
adulthood. Children with ADHD may struggle with academics and develop low
self-esteem. They may even find difficulties in focusing, prioritizing, and
multitasking. Adults with ADHD may have trouble with relationships, time
management and experience frustration. They may even become disruptive and
disorganized.
Causes of ADHD
Scientists have found that genetics is one of the major reasons for
ADHD. Several other factors may contribute to the development of ADHD,
including brain injuries, exposure to environmental toxins (e.g., high levels
of lead) during pregnancy or at a young age, extreme stress, cigarette smoking,
alcohol use, or drug use during pregnancy. Premature delivery and low birth
weight are also the causes of ADHD.
Symptoms of ADHD
The symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be
categorized into two types of behavioural problems: inattention,
hyperactivity, and impulsiveness.
Symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity may include:
·
Fidgeting when seated.
·
Interruptive in class
·
Getting up and moving around in
situations when staying seated is expected, such as in the classroom or the office
·
Running or dashing around in
situations where it is inappropriate
·
Always in motion or “on the
go,”
·
Talking nonstop
·
Impatience
·
Having trouble waiting for his or her
turn
·
Interrupting or intruding on others,
for example, in conversations, games, or activities
Symptoms of inattentiveness may include:
·
Easily distracted
·
Forgetful about daily activities
·
Trouble focusing
·
Does not seem to listen when spoken
to directly
·
Daydreaming
·
Highly disorganized
Treatments of ADHD
There is no cure for ADHD however the symptoms can be improved. Behaviour
therapy, educational programs, and medication are widely used to treat ADHD.
The most commonly used ADHD medications are stimulant drugs which increase the
brain chemical dopamine, which plays an essential role in thinking and
attention. Non-stimulant medications
like atomoxetine and guanfacine are also used to treat ADHD.
Non-stimulants take longer than stimulants to improve attention and
impulsivity in a person. Children with ADHD are often treated with educational
and training programs, which include behaviour and stress management techniques,
as children with ADHD often show behaviour that may be inappropriate or
disruptive, making it hard for them to maintain relationships with peers or
family members. Behaviour therapy helps them in managing and strengthening their behaviours. It also helps develop their social, emotional, and planning skills.
A structured and predictable environment can help the
child with inconsistency and impulsivity. Keeping the child away from distractions can also help, as they are susceptible to distractions.
With proper treatments, children learn self-control by getting better at managing their attention, behaviour, and
emotions.
References
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/treatment.html
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/adhd
