UNDERSTANDING ADHD(Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD is one of the most common Mental Health disorder among children. These children are often seen as trouble makers at home and school. They are often subjected to excessive coercive methods. These children also fails in the academic activities at school.

What is ADHD? 

It is a disease affecting the brain. This result in the child having poor attention span, impulsivity and hyperactivity. This makes the child a fidgety non listener who always quarrels. Child's home, school and peer realms are affected. Due to poor attention span they cannot focus on their studies and play. They are always on the move from one thing to another due to hyperactivity. The often express their feelings in such a way that they are always seen as quarrelsome. 

Symptoms of ADHD: 

Inattention Symptoms

• Is easily distracted.

• Doesn't follow directions or finish tasks.

• Doesn't appear to be listening.

• Doesn't pay attention and makes careless mistakes.

• Forgets about daily activities.

• Has problems organizing daily tasks.

• Doesn’t like to do things that require sitting still.

• Often loses things.

• Tends to daydream.

Hyperactivity Symptoms

• Often squirms, fidgets, or bounces when sitting.
• Doesn't stay seated.
• Has trouble playing quietly.
• Is always moving, such as running or climbing on things (In teens and adults, this is more commonly described as restlessness.).
• Talks excessively.
• Is always “on the go” as if “driven by a motor”.

Impulsivity Symptoms

• Has trouble waiting for his or her turn.
• Blurts out answers.
• Interrupts others.

Causes of ADHD:

The exact etiology of ADHD is not still well understood. Active research is going on in this field. 

• It can Be due to hereditary factors. ADHD often runs in families.
• Certain Neuro-chemicals in the brain of ADHD children may be out of balance.
• Poor nutrition, infections, smoking, drinking, and substance abuse during pregnancy. These things can affect a baby’s brain development.
• Toxins, such as lead. They may affect a child's brain development.
• A brain injury or a brain disorder.

Treatment of ADHD:

• Medications 

Stimulant medications like Dextroamphetamines, Methylphenidate and non stimulants like atomoxetine, clonidie are the commonly used medications for the treatment of ADHD.

Omega 3 fatty acids are noted to be having beneficial effects in the treatment of ADHD.

• Therapy

Special education helps a child learn at school. Having structure and a routine can help children with ADHD a lot.
Behavior modification teaches ways to replace bad behaviors with good ones.
Psychotherapy (counseling) can help someone with ADHD learn better ways to handle their emotions and frustration. It can also help improve their self-esteem. Counseling may also help family members better understand the child or adult with ADHD.
Social skills training can teach behaviors, such as taking turns and sharing.