ADHD Symptoms and Treatment

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that generally appears in childhood and can be a lifelong impairment. It can have a negative impact on relationships, school or work performance, and self-esteem. There are a variety of treatment options with varying levels of effectiveness depending on a multitude of individual factors.

ADHD symptoms

A diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder requires input from a physician or psychiatrist as well as the individuals who work closely with the child or adult in home, school, or work settings. The symptoms may present differently in different people, but certain signs are very common.

Hyperactivity

While most children have periods in which they are very active, hyperactivity is a different level. Someone with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may seem to move constantly, often in inappropriate situations. For children, this means an inability to stay in a seat or a tendency to run when walking is required. Excessive fidgeting, tapping, or talking is also common with hyperactivity.

Impulsivity

Some level of impulsive behavior in children is not abnormal or cause for concern. However, those with ADHD may frequently lose their self-control or act without thinking. They may demonstrate difficulty waiting for their turn to speak or act, often interrupting or blurting out during inappropriate times. Impulsivity can also cause accidents as risks are not considered; children may climb trees or dart in front of moving objects without considering the consequences or danger involved.

Inattention

The inattention part of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is most noticeable in a school or work setting. Procrastination is common, as is a frequent jump between unfinished activities. Those struggling with the disorder generally exhibit other aspects of inattention, including:

• disorganization
• lack of focus
• forgetfulness
• inattention to details
• tendency to be careless
• messy work
• inability to understand the feelings and moods of others

ADHD treatments

The disorder is very manageable with the proper treatment. For children living with the condition, parents should work closely with healthcare providers, coaches, teachers, therapists, and other family members to find the best course of treatment. 

Behavior therapy

For children under six suffering with ADHD, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the first line of treatment is parental training in behavior management. The goals of behavior therapy include learning proper behavior for social and relational skills at home and for school and work settings. Effective treatment plans also include behavioral interventions in the classroom and additional school support. Progress monitoring is necessary to determine what is working and where changes should be made in the treatment plan.

Medications

There are numerous medications that are FDA-approved to treat the disorder in children aged six and over. Stimulants are the most commonly used medications; between 70% and 80% of children show fewer symptoms with the use of stimulants. Side effects, such as sleep and appetite issues, are common complaints of those who try medication, and the effectiveness of medication varies greatly between individuals.

Conclusion

ADHD is very common in both children and adults. Symptoms generally include hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, and the specifics range greatly among individuals. There are a variety of treatment methods, but the most effective include a combination of therapy and medication.

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