What is ADHD?
ADHD, also called attention-deficit disorder, is a neurobehavioral disorder, usually diagnosed in childhood. Some of the key characteristics include inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These symptoms usually occur together; however, one may occur without the other(s).
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood which usually presents itself by the age of 4. Individuals with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the results will be), or be overly active. However, most of the ADHD symptoms include:
- Disorganization and problems prioritizing.
- Poor time management skills.
- Problems focusing on a task.
- Trouble multitasking.
- Excessive activity or restlessness.
- Poor planning.
- Low frustration tolerance.
Many children and some adults struggle with managing these symptoms which lowers their self-esteem and may lead to depression.
Standard treatment for Children includes:
- treating ADHD with medication
- social skills training
- parent-delivered behavior therapy
- teacher-delivered behavior therapy.
- neurotherapy
- psychological counseling
- behavioral coaching
Standard treatments for Adults include:
- treating ADHD with medication
- education
- skills training
- neurotherapy
- psychological counseling
- behavioral coaching