Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioural disorder
characterised by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.
What are the signs and symptoms of ADHD?
There are three core symptoms of ADHD. These are: inattention, hyperactivity
and impulsivity. ADHD is categorised into one of three types, depending on
the presence or absence of these symptoms:
- Combined type with signs of hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention
- Predominantly inattentive type ADHD with inattention but not
hyperactivity/impulsivity
- Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD with hyperactivity/impulsivity
but not inattention
The symptoms associated with ADHD may appear in different ways at different
ages; the hyperactivity of childhood may present as excessive fidgetiness in
adolescence and mature into a sustained inner sense of restlessness in adult
life. Inattention may decrease, as attention span usually increases with
age.
What are the causes of ADHD?
The exact cause of ADHD is unknown. However, it is known to ‘run in
families’ and progress is being made in identifying the genetic components
involved.
It is also possible that ADHD may result from environmental factors -
things that are in the world around us. Cigarette smoking during pregnancy and
drinking alcohol during ealry pregnancy have been associated with ADHD.
Who is likely to be at risk of ADHD?
At present, ADHD affects about 5.29% of the world’s population*. As the
illness can often result in disruptive behaviour in the classroom, it is
often first identified at school.
Although ADHD is generally considered a childhood disorder, it is now known
that approximately two thirds of children affected with ADHD symptoms can
carry the condition into adolescence and then adulthood.
*Using DSM-IV criteria
How is ADHD diagnosed?
ADHD is not an easy disorder to diagnose, so the diagnosis should only be
made by a specialist psychiatrist, or other appropriately qualified
healthcare professional with the right training and expertise.
This is because there are other conditions which are very similar to ADHD
that have to be ruled out and because ADHD often occurs alongside other
conditions.
The diagnosis is based on:
- A full clinical and psychosocial assessment
- A full developmental and psychiatric history
- Reports from observers (such as school or place of work) and an assessment of
an individual’s mental state
What are the treatments for ADHD?
Treating ADHD usually involves behavioural therapy, medication, or a
combination of behavioural therapy and medication.
For further information go to:
www.adhdandyou.co.uk