ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a chronic condition that primarily affects children, but can often continue into adulthood. Kids with ADHD have trouble concentrating, following directions, and staying on task. This can seriously affect their ability to learn. ADHD in no way means your child is a slow learner or disabled in any way; it merely means that he needs help learning to concentrate and control his behavior.

What causes ADHD?

Doctors aren't really sure what causes ADHD, but contributing factors may include exposure to toxins during development, including during pregnancy and early childhood; altered brain anatomy, structure, and function; and heredity. Kids with ADHD often have a parent or a sibling with the disorder.

Is ADHD serious?

Kids with ADHD can, and do, live normal lives. Left untreated, however, children can experience emotional problems, learning problems, and social problems.

Can I prevent ADHD?

Since we don't know what causes ADHD, it's hard to pinpoint how to avoid it. Certainly, it's a good idea to avoid smoking and other toxins during pregnancy and to keep your child away from exposure to lead, chemicals and environmental poisons as he grows.

How do I know if my child has ADHD?

Children with ADHD display three primary symptoms:

  • Inattention - difficulty concentrating, forgetting instructions, moving from one task to another without completing anything.
  • Impulsivity - talking over the top of others, having a 'short fuse', being accident prone.
  • Overactivity - constant restlessness and fidgeting.

Of course, most young children display each of these signs at some point. That's why it's important to work with your doctor, a child psychologist, and your child's teachers to correctly diagnose the condition.

How do I treat ADHD?

Since ADHD is a behavioural disorder, the treatment requires forms of behavioural modification techniques. Parents and teachers need to be consistent and patient when working with kids with ADHD. Some of the most common ways to help a child with ADHD focus and function are:

  • Consistent, regular routines.
  • Rules that are easy to follow, easy to understand, and easy to remember.
  • Have the child's full attention when speaking to him.
  • Give instructions one or two at a time.

Sometimes, prescription stimulant medication is necessary to help your child focus.

Should I call the doctor?

Many parents don't realise their child suffers from ADHD until someone at school requests a meeting. Very young children might be diagnosed through collaboration with the family doctor and a child psychologist. If you believe your child may be showing signs of ADHD, make an appointment with his pediatrician to discuss your concerns.

What you need to know about ADHD

  • ADHD stands for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
  • ADHD is a behavioural disorder. Kids with ADHD have trouble with focus and function.
  • Doctors aren't sure what causes ADHD, though there does appear to be contributing factors including heredity.

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Last revised: Wednesday, 20 January 2010


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