What is ADHD? Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder and is commonly seen in children. Symptoms include reduced functioning in school, home and in other places. The most common symptoms are hyperactivity and inattention. ADHD also involves anxiety and depression.

Definition For ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children. ADHD also affects many adults. Symptoms of ADHD include inattention (not being able to keep focus), hyperactivity (excess movement that is not fitting to the setting) and impulsivity (hasty acts that occur in the moment without thought).
An estimated 5 percent of children and 2.5 percent of adults have ADHD. ADHD is often first identified in school-aged children when it leads to disruption in the classroom or problems with schoolwork. It can also affect adults. It is more common among boys than girls.
Symptoms Of ADHD
1. Fidgeting
2. Difficulty concentrating for any length of time so as to see a task to completion.
3. Difficulty focusing on a task or activity for extended periods of time.
4. Losing interest in a task or activity even during play.
5. Losing items and tools necessary to see a task or activity to completion.
6. Tendency to jump and run around even at inopportune times.
7. Constantly on the go.
8. Unruly behavior such as shouting out answers before the question is fully asked.
9. Difficulty sleeping.
Tasks Children With ADHD May Have Difficulties With
• has a very short attention span
• cannot follow directions very easily
• cannot concentrate but at times can hyperfocus and remain on one task or activity for hours on end.
• paying attention
• is distracted
• restless and hyperactive
• talks out of turn
Some Potential Causes For ADHD
· School is too hard
· Learning disabilities
· Right-brain kid in a left-brain world
· Lead poisoning
· Poor diet and too much junk food
· Allergies to artificial coloring (and flavoring)
· Bad parents
· Traumatic Brain Injury
· Vaccinations
· Too much TV
· Too many video games
· School is boring
Scientists have not yet identified the specific causes of ADHD. There is evidence that genetics contribute to ADHD. For example, three out of four children with ADHD have a relative with the disorder. Other factors that may contribute to the development of ADHD include being born prematurely, brain injury and the mother smoking, using alcohol or having extreme stress during pregnancy.
Treatment For ADHD
Treating ADHD often requires medical, educational, behavioral and psychological intervention.
· parent training
· medication
· skills training
· counseling
· behavioral therapy
· educational supports
· education regarding ADHD