Most of us have heard about the term ADHD, at some point in our lives, and the majority of us have a vague idea that it is some sort of mental disorder, but the information stops at that. What exactly happens in ADHD, is it a curable disorder, what does this ADHD do to the affected children, how does it affect the behavior of children etc may be the various queries bouncing in your mind. This article is meant to answer all your queries and simplify ADHD for you- so read on.
ADHD is an acronym for the term Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder. Though we hear more about children being affected with ADHD, it is not limited only to childhood. This disorder progresses gradually from the childhood of the affected person, in to his or her youth and then subsequently on to adulthood too.
As the name is quite self suggestive, the ADHD affected person has a huge problem while trying to focus attention, or while paying attention. There are bouts of uncontrollable behavior and hyperactivity too. There are 3 major kinds of ADHD as listed below:
ADHD with predominance of hyperactive-impulsive behavior
ADHD with predominance of inattentiveness
ADHD with a combination of both the above 2 kinds
The 3rdvariety where there is a combination of all the symptoms, like hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattentiveness is the most commonly occurring ADHD in kids. The major issue which concerns the medical community about ADHD is that it cannot be permanently cured, but the symptoms can be brought under control by medications. Psychotherapy, special training or education and counseling are all used to deal with this disorder.
ADHD is essentially a genetic disorder, which means that it runs in families and is inherited from one generation to the other. Many other factors can also lead to the development of this disorder. If the unborn baby is exposed to cigarette smoke and alcohol, due to these habits in the mother, then the chances of ADHD developing in the baby are more. Preschool kids if exposed to high amounts of lead like those found in the wall paints, etc can also be a high risk factor.
The diagnosis is confirmed only after a detailed study of the child’s behavior by a mental health specialist. The mental health specialist will evaluate the child’s performance at school and home; speak to the child’s teachers, parents, coaches, babysitters etc before coming to a conclusion.
Written by theperfectionist111
Doctor, Professional Freelance writer, certified Ezine article expert