Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
What are the signs and symptoms parents should look for? There
are three main types of ADHD. One type is characterized by
inattentiveness, one type is characterized by hyperactive or
impulsive behavior, and the third type is combined - when children
exhibit signs of both types. Symptoms are often unnoticed until a
child enters school. To be diagnosed with ADHD, a child must show
symptoms in at least two settings, such as home and school, and the
symptoms must interfere with the child's ability to function at
home or school for at least six months. Specialists have agreed
that at least six symptoms from the following lists must be present
for an accurate diagnosis, and symptoms must begin by age 7.
Signs of inattentive behavior:
Signs of hyperactive behavior:
The presence of some symptoms, however, does not confirm a
diagnosis of ADHD. Just because a child has a lot of energy or
difficulty paying attention in school does not mean the child has
ADHD. An accurate diagnosis relies on the presence of a range of
symptoms and difficulties that prevent the child from performing at
an appropriate level for his or her age and intelligence level.
Teachers often first observe these issues, and their input should
be considered seriously.
How Does ADHD Affect School and Social Life?
Symptoms of ADHD - such as trouble sitting still, paying
attention to details, and listening - can make school difficult for
a child with ADHD. Although most children with ADHD have normal or
above-normal intelligence, 40 to 60 percent have serious learning
difficulties. Many others have specific problems with schoolwork or
maintaining good grades, and face particular challenges with
assignments and tests that require focused attention or lengthy
writing, or have time limits. On a social level, children with ADHD
often have trouble developing meaningful relationships with peers
and family members. Other children may find it frustrating to play
with a child who has ADHD, because classic symptoms include
difficulty following rules, waiting one's turn, or excessive
talking.
What Other Disorders Commonly Occur With ADHD?
Children and adolescents with ADHD are more likely than children
without the disorder to suffer from other mental disorders. About
one-half of all young people with ADHD have oppositional defiant
disorder; about one-quarter have an anxiety disorder; and as many
as one-third have depression and one-fifth have bipolar disorder.
Adolescents with untreated ADHD are at risk for substance abuse
disorders. Research shows that young people treated for ADHD have
lower rates of substance abuse than children who go untreated.
What Causes ADHD?
ADHD is nobody's fault. Researchers believe that biology plays a
large role in the development of ADHD. Thirty to 40 percent of
children diagnosed with ADHD have relatives with the same disorder,
suggesting that genes are at least partly responsible. Brain scans
reveal that the brains of children with ADHD differ from those of
children without the disorder. Children with ADHD are thought to
have problems with the part of the brain that controls the
organization and direction of thought and behavior.
What Can Parents and Caregivers Do?
Parents and other caregivers play a crucial role in ensuring
that their child receives the care that he or she needs. Children
with symptoms of ADHD should be referred to and evaluated by a
mental health professional who specializes in treating children,
unless your primary care doctor has experience in treating this
disorder. The diagnostic evaluation should include behavioral
observation in the classroom and at home. A comprehensive treatment
plan should be developed with the family, and, whenever possible,
the child should be involved in making treatment decisions.
Educational testing should be performed when learning disabilities
are present.
Treatment for ADHD is effective for most children.
Early identification, diagnosis and treatment help children
reach their full potential. The most effective treatments for ADHD
include a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and
parental support and education. Nine out of ten children respond to
medication, and 50 percent of children who do not respond to an
initial medication will respond to a second. When ADHD co-occurs
with another disorder, such as depression or anxiety, a combination
of medication and psychotherapy is shown to be particularly
effective. Although the value of medication has been well
documented, parents should feel free to discuss any concerns about
medication use with the child's doctor.
If your child or a child you know is diagnosed with ADHD, be
patient.
Even with treatment, symptoms may take time to improve. Instill
a sense of competence in the child or adolescent. Promote his or
her strengths, talents and feelings of self-worth. Remember that
the side effects of untreated ADHD (such as failure, frustration,
discouragement, social isolation, low self-esteem and depression)
may cause more problems than the disorder itself.
Children's mental health matters!
To learn more, talk to a doctor or mental health professional,
contact your local Mental Health Association, or access the
resources below:
National Mental Health Association, 800-969-NMHA,
www.nmha.org
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry,
www.aacap.org
American Psychiatric Association, 888-357-7924, www.psych.org
American Psychological Association, 800-964-2000, www.apa.org
Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation, 847-256-8525,
www.bpkids.org
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder,
800-233-4050, www.chadd.org
Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health,
703-684-7710
Head Start Mental Health Resources, 866-763-6481
Knowledge Exchange Network, 800-789-2647,
www.mentalhealth.org
National Association of School Psychologists, 301-657-0270
Children's Mental Health Matters is an initiative of the National
Mental Health Association's Campaign for America's Mental Health.
This nationwide public education campaign is supported by a
coalition of national organizations and state and local Mental
Health Associations and their partners. Through this program, NMHA,
its affiliates and partners offer educational materials for
children and their families on a variety of topics including
anxiety disorders, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder,
bipolar disorder and childhood depression, and mental wellness.
