Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - Illnesses and conditions Mental health Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a group of behavioural symptoms that include: difficulty concentrating and paying attention hyperactivity impulsiveness Symptoms of ADHD in children and teenagers Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age. They may become more noticeable when a childs circumstances change, like when they start school. The main symptoms of ADHD in children and teenagers are: Inattentiveness The main signs of inattentiveness are: having a short attention span being easily distracted making careless mistakes appearing forgetful losing things being unable to stick at tedious or time-consuming tasks appearing to be unable to listen to or carry out instructions constantly changing activity or task having difficulty organising tasks Hyperactivity and impulsiveness The main signs of hyperactivity and impulsiveness are: being unable to sit still, especially in quiet surroundings constantly fidgeting being unable to concentrate on tasks excessive physical movement excessive talking being unable to wait their turn acting without thinking interrupting conversations little or no sense of danger Symptoms of ADHD in adults If youre an adult with ADHD, you may find that: you get easily distracted and find it hard to notice details, particularly with things you find boring its hard to listen to other people  you may find yourself finishing their sentences for them or interrupting them its hard to follow instructions you find it hard to organise yourself  you start a lot of things without ever finishing them you find it hard to wait you fidget and cant sit still when theres nothing much going on youre forgetful and tend to lose or misplace things you easily get irritable, impatient or frustrated and lose your temper quickly you feel restless or edgy, have difficulty turning your thoughts off you find stress hard to handle you tend to do things on the spur of the moment, without thinking, which gets you into trouble Some people with ADHD have problems with inattentiveness, but not with hyperactivity or impulsiveness. This form of ADHD is also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD). ADD can sometimes go unnoticed because the symptoms may be less obvious. Related conditions Some people might have other conditions alongside ADHD. Related conditions in children and teenagers with ADHD Some children may also have signs of other problems or conditions alongside ADHD, like: anxiety disorder oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)  this involves negative and disruptive behaviour, particularly towards figures of authority conduct disorder  this often involves antisocial behaviour, like stealing and harming people or animals depression sleep problems autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) epilepsy Tourettes syndrome learning difficulties, like dyslexia The symptoms of ADHD can improve with age. Although many adults diagnosed with the condition at a young age continue to experience problems. Related conditions in adults with ADHD ADHD in adults can occur alongside several related problems or conditions. One of the most common conditions is depression. Other conditions that adults may have alongside ADHD include: personality disorders bipolar disorder obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) ADHD can also cause problems like difficulties with relationships and social interaction. Causes of ADHD The exact cause of ADHD isnt fully understood. A combination of the following factors might be responsible: Genetics ADHD tends to run in families. The genes you you inherit from your parents are a factor in developing the condition. The way ADHD is inherited is complex and isnt thought to be related to a single gene. Brain function and structure Research has identified some possible differences in the brains of people with ADHD. Some studies involving brain scans have suggested that certain areas of the brain may be a different size in people with ADHD. Other studies have suggested that people with ADHD may have a chemical imbalance in the brain. Or that some chemicals may not work properly. Groups at risk Certain people are also believed to be more at risk of ADHD, including people: who were born prematurely (before the 37th week of pregnancy) or with a low birthweight with epilepsy with brain damage  which happened either in the womb or after a severe head injury later in life Diagnosing ADHD Speak to your GP if you think that you or your child may have ADHD. If youre worried about your child, it may help to speak to their teachers before seeing your GP. This means you can find out if they have any concerns about your childs behaviour. Your GP cant formally diagnose ADHD. They can discuss your concerns with you and refer you for a specialist assessment, if necessary. Treating ADHD Treatment for ADHD can help relieve the symptoms. ADHD can be treated using medication or therapy. A combination of both is often best. Treatment is usually arranged by a specialist, like a paediatrician or psychiatrist. Treatment of ADHD might include: Medication Medication might help you or your child concentrate better, be less impulsive and feel calmer. Therapy You might be offered therapy. This might be: psychoeducation behaviour therapy parent training education programmes cognitive behavioural therapy social skills training There are other treatments that involve altering your diet or taking supplements.