ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It's a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how people behave, focus, and control their impulses. It's not a disorder of intelligence; rather, it affects the brain's ability to regulate attention and behavior. ADHD is a chronic condition that often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood.

Symptoms

Symptoms are categorized into three main groups. A person with ADHD may have a combination of these symptoms, depending on their specific type of presentation.

1. Inattention

This involves difficulty with focus and organization. People with inattention may:

Have trouble paying close attention to details or making careless mistakes.

Seem like they're not listening when spoken to directly.

Find it hard to follow through on instructions or complete tasks.

Be easily distracted.

Have trouble with organization and time management.

Often lose things necessary for tasks (e.g., keys, wallets, homework).

2. Hyperactivity

This involves excessive movement and restlessness. People with hyperactivity may:

Fidget or squirm in their seat.

Have trouble staying seated when expected to.

Run or climb in inappropriate situations.

Be unable to play or engage in hobbies quietly.

Be "on the go" or seem "driven by a motor."

Talk excessively.

3. Impulsivity

This involves acting without thinking. People with impulsivity may:

Blurt out answers before a question is completed.

Have difficulty waiting their turn.

Interrupt or intrude on others' conversations or games.

Types of Presentation

Based on the symptoms, ADHD is classified into three presentations:

Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: The person has enough inattentive symptoms but not enough hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms. This is often what people used to call ADD.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: The person has enough hyperactive-impulsive symptoms but not enough inattentive symptoms.

Combined Presentation: The person has enough symptoms from both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. This is the most common type.

Causes & Diagnosis

The exact cause of ADHD isn't known, but research points to a combination of factors, including genetics, brain structure differences, and certain environmental factors. It's a neurobiological disorder, not a result of poor parenting.

Diagnosis is made by a qualified healthcare professional (like a pediatrician, psychiatrist, or psychologist) after a comprehensive evaluation. This includes reviewing symptoms, observing behavior, and gathering information from parents, teachers, and caregivers.