Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

One can only imagine the frustration, sadness, and isolation that the families of children experienced before the disorder became known. The curtain has lifted on these behaviors. For many, it is called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

ADHD is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders of childhood. In fact, researchers have raised the question “Is ADHD an actual disease?” since there is no neuropsychiatric test, neuro imagery, genetic marker or definitive environmental factors involved in the diagnosis. ADHD is better described as a group of symptoms representing a final common pathway for emotional, psychological and learning disability problems (Journal of Child Neurology, 2005). Children in essence are treated for symptoms rather than diagnostic
findings. Sugar, diet, TV, parenting style and social/environmental factors are not considered risk factors.

Some risk factors include the following:

• Brain injury
• Lead poisoning
• Alcohol and cigarette use during pregnancy
• Prematurity
• Low birth rate
• Genetics

Here are some facts about ADHD:

• The APA (American Psychiatric Association) states that 3-7 percent of school aged children have ADHD. Some studies estimate even higher numbers in certain communities.
• More boys than girls are diagnosed, according to the CDC.

• ADHD rates continue to rise in the US. Dr. Lara Akinbami from the CDC and Prevention states that from 1998 to 2000 the rate was 6.9 percent. In 2007 -2009, the rate is reported at 9 percent. Researches cannot tell if the increase is due to prevalence or due to detection and diagnosis.
• In 2007, the CDC reported that 2.7 million children received medication for ADHD.The Journal of Pediatric Psychology (2007) stated that in 2005 with a prevalence rate of only 5% the annual societal cost for ADHD ranged between 36-52.4 billion dollars. The average was given at 42.5 billion.
• In Georgia, the CDC reports that the prevalence is between 8-9.5 percent from the years of 2007 to 2008.

There are three types of ADHD:

1. Inattention – 6 or more of the following criteria must be present for the last 6 months that would be inappropriate at the child’s developmental level:

• Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
• Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.
• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
• Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).
• Often has trouble organizing activities.
• Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
• Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).
• Is often easily distracted.
• Is often forgetful in daily activities.

2. Hyperactivity – Six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-Impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

• Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat when sitting still is expected.
• Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.
• Often excessively runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).
• Often has trouble playing or doing leisure activities quietly.
• Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor."
• Often talks excessively.

3. Impulsivity

• Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.
• Often has trouble waiting one's turn.
• Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).

It is incumbent upon a primary care physician to diagnose ADHD, but these previously listed behaviors are a cause of concern and should be the reason a parent/guardian should seek professional intervention.

There is no cure for ADHD but there is treatment. Medications, behavioral therapy, parent training and teacher/coach training are among the answers to this equation. The intent of this article is not to be able to teach diagnosis. It is to help people understand what to look for in children, who might remind us of our friends and schoolmates from the past so the future of our children may be brighter.

Here is an excellent website for further information:

Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents