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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that causes above-normal levels of hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. People with ADHD may also have difficulty focusing their attention on a single task or sitting still for long periods of time.
ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in young people. An estimated 8.8% of children aged 4-17 have ADHD. While ADHD is usually diagnosed in childhood, it does not only affect children. An estimated 4.4% of adults aged 18-44 have ADHD.
With treatment, people with ADHD can be successful in school, work, and lead productive lives. Researchers are also using tools such as brain imaging to better understand the condition and to find more effective ways to treat and prevent ADHD.
While some behaviors associated with ADHD are "normal" and not a cause for concern to most people, someone with ADHD will have trouble controlling these behaviors, will show them frequently, and for longer than six months.
Despite how common ADHD is, doctors and researcher still aren't sure what causes the condition. But there are several factors that contribute to ADHD.
Research shows that genes may be a large contributor to ADHD. ADHD often runs in families and some trends in specific brain areas that contribute to attention.
Research suggests that a reduction in dopamine is a factor in ADHD. Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that helps move signals from one nerve to another. It plays a role in triggering emotional responses and movements.
Other research suggests a structural difference in the brain. Findings indicate that people with ADHD have less gray matter volume. Gray matter includes the brain areas that help with speech, self-control, decision-making, and muscle control.
Studies show a link between during cigarette smoking and alcohol use during pregnancy and children who have ADHD. Exposure to lead as a child has also been shown to increase the likelihood of ADHD in children.
ADHD exists in both adults and children, but is most commonly diagnosed in childhood. Getting a diagnosis for ADHD can sometimes be difficult because the symptoms of ADHD are similar to typical behavior in most young children. Teachers are often the first to notice ADHD symptoms because they see children in a learning environment with peers every day.
There is no single test that can diagnose a child with ADHD, so meet with a doctor or mental health professional to gather all necessary information to make a diagnosis. The goal is to rule out any outside causes for symptoms. Such as environmental changes, difficulty in school, and medical problems.
If the doctor suspects ADHD, they may refer the individual to an ADHD specialist. Depending on the diagnosis, they may also suggest making an appointment with a psychiatrist or neurologist.
Treatment for ADHD typically includes one or a combination of:
Including stimulants, nonstimulants, and antidepressants.
Through schools, work, or alternative treatment approaches.
For children and adults, untreated ADHD can have a serious impact on a person's life. It can affect school, work, and relationships. Treatment is important to lessen the effects of the condition.
But it is still important to keep in mind that many people with ADHD enjoy fulfilling and successful lives.