Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neuro-developmental disorders related to childhood. Although ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in childhood, it usually lasts well into adulthood. Children diagnosed with ADHD tend to find it hard to pay attention, are prone to controlling impulsive behaviour without any form of reflection, and are usually overactive.
Understanding ADHD – Simulation
Varying Types of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Predominantly Inattentive Presentation – characterised by distractibility, lack of organisational skills, lack of inability to complete tasks, and inability to follow instructions.
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation – characterised by difficulty in being still, excessive fidgeting and movement, restlessness and impulsivity.
Combined Presentation – characterised by a combination of all symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
ADHD Diagnosis
For a child to be diagnosed with ADHD, the following must be evident in multiple settings eg. at home, at school, with friends, with family, even if in varying degrees:
- at least 6 months of inattention (distractibility and organisational problems) with or without hyperactivity (lack of behavioural self-control/difficulty remaining still/excessive motor activity) and impulsivity (reacting to surrounding stimuli without thinking/reflecting on possible outcomes)
- such behaviour needs to have a direct negative impact on the child’s functionality academically/occupationally or socially
- deficit related to inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity should be over the limit expected per child’s age
Reference: https://www.icd10data.com/ICD10CM/Codes/F01-F99/F90-F98/F90-
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Risk Factors
- Genetics
- Premature birth / low birth weight
- Head trauma
- In-utero or childhood exposure to environmental toxins
- In-utero exposure to alcohol and/or tobacco
ADHD Treatment
Psychosocial Interventions
- Behaviour Management training for parents
- Behavioural Interventions in the school setting
- Organisational Skills Training
Psychopharmacology
- Stimulants (fast effect) eg. Ritalin and Concerta
- Non-Stimulants (slow-release yet longer effect) eg. Strattera (SNRI), and Clonidine (alpha-adrenergic agonist)
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