Table of contents:
1- What is ADHD?
2- What are the symptoms of ADHD?
3- What are the causes of ADHD?
4- How is ADHD diagnosed?
5- What does ADHD treatment consist of?
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder that usually appears in childhood. It presents a combination of symptoms such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.
ADHD usually appears in childhood, although in many cases it is not recognized as such until the person is an adult. In the case of adults, it can bring some problems such as unstable relationships, academic or work problems and low self-esteem.
This disorder is distinguished in three subtypes:
– Predominantly inattentive
– Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
– Combined
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
Symptoms of this type of disorder usually begin before 12 years of age and, in some cases, as early as 3 years of age. They can be mild, moderate or severe.
In general, it is characterized by an excessive increase in impulsivity and hyperactivity and difficulty in maintaining attention for a continuous period of time. When this type of behavior is persistent, more frequent and of greater intensity than usual in children their age, it ends up affecting their school performance and their relationships in various areas of their lives.
In addition, in many cases, children affected by ADHD also suffer from other disorders, such as depression, anxiety or learning disorders.
Inattention:
– Does not pay attention to details and has careless mistakes.
– Does not concentrate on tasks or games
– Not able to follow instructions
– Avoids schoolwork or any type of homework that requires concentration.
– Repeatedly loses things
Hyperactivity and Impulsivity:
– Is a restless person, even when seated
– Has difficulty sitting or sitting still
– Paces back and forth in inappropriate situations
– Has trouble playing or doing quiet activities
– Talks too much
– Interrupts whoever is speaking and gives hurried responses
– Does not wait his turn
ADHD is characterized by an excessive increase in impulsivity and hyperactivity.
impulsivity and hyperactivity
What causes ADHD?
The exact cause of ADHD is not fully understood. However, some factors involved in the development of this pathology have been determined, such as genetics, environment and problems with the central nervous system.
On the other hand, some risk factors in the development of ADHD have been established:
– Genetic factors: hereditary aspects explain 80% of ADHD cases.
– Exposure to environmental toxins (e.g. lead).
– Use of alcohol, drugs or smoking during pregnancy.
– Premature birth.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
The diagnosis of ADHD is complex, since many people have compatible symptoms but do not have ADHD. For this reason, the diagnosis implies two conditions: on the one hand, that different symptoms coexist and, on the other hand, that these symptoms manifest themselves in different areas of the person’s life, i.e., in the family, school or circle of friends. Furthermore, these symptoms must be present in a constant and prolonged manner.
What is the treatment of ADHD?
A correct diagnosis is important in order to establish an appropriate treatment for each patient. The main avenues of treatment are:
- Psychological: uses therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, parent training and social skills training.
- Psychopedagogical: it is based on both the reeducation of the child to improve his academic performance and the training of teachers to detect the problem as early as possible.
- Pharmacological: the medications used in Spain are methylphenidate (stimulant) and atomoxetine (non-stimulant).