ADHD is a neuro developmental disorder that affects millions of children and often continues into adulthood. ADD excludes hyperactivity.
A triad of symptoms is present on a mild, moderate or severe level involving inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity. These symptoms must be present for at least six months and must create significant difficulties in at least two settings such as at home, school or work.
There are three presentations of ADHD, depending on the presence or absence of particular symptoms:
- ADHD – Predominantly Inattentive Presentation
- ADHD – Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation
- ADHD – Combined Presentation
ADHD children often struggle with low self-esteem, difficult relationships and poor academic performance. They tend to be more accident-prone than children who don’t have ADHD.
Some of the conditions that can be associated with ADHD are:
Specific learning disabilities.
Anxiety, excessive worrying and nervousness.
Moodiness, irritability and an intolerance of frustration.
Defiant, oppositional behaviour toward authority figures.
Early diagnosis and treatment of ADHD can make a substantial difference to the achievement of desired outcomes. The difficulties associated with ADHD such as inattentiveness and distractibility can become far more pronounced if appropriate and effective intervention is not implemented.
Intervention includes an assessment from a specialist medical doctor, an educational and or neuropsychological assessment. Therapy is often a recommendation.