Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders that impair the normal functioning of children in various settings such as home, school and social interactions. Children with ADHD experience difficulties in carrying out various tasks and their behavior is marked by impulsivity, excessive motor activity and inattention. This disorder, if left untreated can have long term implications on the behavior aspects of the child and may show its negative impact in adolescence and adulthood.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral developmental disorder and affects almost 3 to 5 percent of the general population. Its symptoms are prevalent in childhood and include relentless inattention, hyperactivity, forgetfulness, impulsive behavior and the inability to concentrate. It is a constant and chronic condition and no sure shot treatment is available to cure this disorder. However, certain medications and therapy can help elevate some of the symptoms and enable these children to perform better at academic and social levels. Almost 60% of children affected with ADHD carry the condition to adulthood.

Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):

Inability to concentrate

Loss of short term memory

Procrastination

Hyperactivity or the inability to stay in one place for a long period of time

Children with this disorder often seem to be extremely fidgety or keep running around when others are seated

Performance deficits

Impulsive behavior or acting without thinking

Inattention in which the child is lost in daydreams and is not bothered by whatever is happening around him/her.

Failure to follow rules and instructions

Careless mistakes in schoolwork

Causes of ADHD:

ADHD is mostly inherited but can be caused by various external factors as well.

Difficulties during pregnancy

Severe illness during early childhood.

Exposure to environmental toxins.

Dietary factors may include eating food that has additives.

Diagnosis:

If you suspect that your child has ADHD, it is important for you to consult a professional who can help diagnose the disorder and enable you to deal with the child. You can consult a child psychologist, psychiatrist, behavior pediatrician or clinical social worker. It is necessary for the parents, teachers and school authorities to come together as a community and help the child.