Millions of children worldwide suffer from attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a chronic illness that frequently persists into adulthood. A variety of enduring issues, including trouble maintaining focus, hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviour, are included in ADHD.
Along with poor academic performance, low self-esteem, and problematic relationships, children with ADHD may also experience these issues. Age can sometimes cause symptoms to lessen. Some people, though, never fully get over their ADHD symptoms. However, they are able to acquire successful strategies.
Although there is no cure for ADHD, treatment can significantly reduce symptoms. Behavioural interventions and medication are commonly used in treatment. The outcome can be significantly impacted by early diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Hyperactive-impulsive behaviour and inattention are two of the main characteristics of ADHD. ADHD symptoms begin before the age of twelve, and in certain kids, they become apparent as early as three. The symptoms of ADHD can last into adulthood and can be mild, moderate, or severe.
Males are more likely than females to have ADHD, and the behaviours of the two genders may differ. For instance, girls may tend to be quiet inattentive, while boys may be more hyperactive.
Three variations of ADHD exist:
- Primarily unfocused. Most symptoms are related to inattention.
- Primarily impulsive and hyperactive. Most symptoms are characterised by hyperactivity and impulsivity.
- Together. This is a combination of hyperactive/impulsive and inattentive symptoms.
Lack of focus
A youngster exhibiting a pattern of inattention may frequently:
- ignore details or make thoughtless errors in school assignments
- have difficulty focusing when playing or working on tasks
- even when spoken to directly, appear uninterested.
- have trouble adhering to directions and neglect to complete assignments or chores
- having problems planning your activities and tasks
- avoid or detest assignments that call for concentrated mental effort, like homework.
- lose things that are required for tasks or activities, such as schoolwork, pencils, and toys.
- be prone to distractions
- forget to complete some everyday tasks, like your chores
Impulsivity and hyperactivity
When a child exhibits impulsive and hyperactive behaviour, they may frequently:
- squirm in the seat, fidget with his or her hands or feet, or tap them.
- find it difficult to remain seated in a classroom or other settings
- always be moving and in motion.
- in inappropriate situations, run around or climb
- find it difficult to play or engage in quiet activity
- talk excessively
- blurt out responses to questions, cutting the asker off
- find it difficult to wait for their turn
- interrupt or pry into other people’s games, conversations, or activities
Causes
Even though the precise cause of ADHD is unknown, research is still being done. Genetics, the environment, or issues with the central nervous system during critical developmental periods are some of the factors that may play a role in the development of ADHD.
Prevention
To lower your child’s chance of developing ADHD:
- Steer clear of anything that could impair foetal development while pregnant. Don’t smoke cigarettes, use recreational drugs, or drink alcohol, for instance.
- Keep your kids away from toxins and other contaminants, such as lead paint and cigarette smoke.
- Limit your time spent on screens. It may be wise for kids to avoid too much TV and video games during their first five years of life, even though the theory is still unproven.
