Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition typically characterized by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. Symptoms of ADHD can have a significant impact on social, academic, and employment functioning if left unmanaged. ADHD is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors; these factors can trigger ADHD symptoms in some people. The impact of Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be reduced through medication, psychological therapies, and lifestyle changes.
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What is Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurological disorder affecting older children, teens, and adults. It is typically characterized by difficulty focusing, high levels of impulsiveness, and excessive energy. An individual affected by Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder will struggle to remain on task and has difficulty completing tasks independently. Moreover, individuals with ADHD often struggle with impulse control, making them more likely to act or speak without thinking.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a common mental disorder that is characterized by many different symptoms, such as difficulty staying focused, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. It is widely accepted that ADHD is a real disorder and can affect both children and adults. Diagnoses of ADHD often involve a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s medical history, family history, and behavior, which typically incorporate questionnaires, interviews, and various tests. ADHD can be treated with various medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
Symptoms
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a mental health disorder that affects millions of people. Generally, ADHD symptoms include difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Symptoms usually start to appear around the age of six and continue throughout adolescence and adulthood. People living with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have difficulty focusing, may struggle with executive functioning, and often have difficulty controlling their emotions.
ADHD in Adults
At least one-third of children with ADHD continue to experience symptoms throughout adulthood. Adult patients may get treatment in the form of medicine, psychotherapy, instruction or training, or a combination of these. Please visit the websites of the National Resource Center on ADHD and the National Institutes of Mental Health for further details on diagnosis and treatment across the lifetime.
Medications
Medication can help kids manage their symptoms of ADHD in their daily lives and regulate the behaviors that cause problems with their peers, family, and teachers.
FDA-approved drugs for treating ADHD in kids as young as 6 years old include the following:
The most popular and well-known ADHD treatments are stimulants. When using these drugs with a quick effect, 70 to 80 percent of youngsters with ADHD experience reduced symptoms.
In 2003, non-stimulants were authorized for the treatment of ADHD. Although they don’t operate as rapidly as stimulants, they might still have an impact for up to 24 hours.
Children might respond to medications in different ways, and they can experience adverse effects including decreased appetite or trouble sleeping. One drug may work well on one youngster but not another.
Prescribers of medicine may need to experiment with various drugs and dosages. To strike the correct balance between a medication’s advantages and disadvantages, the AAP advises that healthcare professionals monitor patients and modify the dosage. To identify the drug that works best for their kid, parents must collaborate with healthcare professionals.
Treatment for ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a medical condition that affects the ability to concentrate, learn, and focus on tasks. Recent research has shown that medications, such as stimulants, can help manage the symptoms associated with ADHD. In addition, non-medication treatments such as psycho-education, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and parent training can help individuals better understand the condition and focus on positive coping skills and behavior management.
Finally, when necessary, family therapy and counseling can provide a supportive environment for individuals to learn better social skills and work through any underlying issues causing stress or distress.
Conclusion
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurological disorder that is characterized by difficulty focusing, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. It most often presents itself before the age of twelve and can be found with similar levels in both males and females. It is estimated that around 5 percent of children in the United States are currently diagnosed with ADHD, a number which has can been growing steadily in recent years. As a diagnosis, it is often subject to stigma, but with proper diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle changes the impact can be minimized and managed.