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What is ADHD-In a nutshell!

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common conditions affecting children today. An estimated 8-9% of children and 2.5% of adults have ADHD. It is categorized in the DSM- 5 as a neurodevelopment disorder or condition. It is most commonly diagnosed in school age children but can be recognized as early as 2 or 3. ADHD is also highly heritable, up to 75% of those diagnosed have received this unique neural smorgasbord from a family member. (Thanks mom!)

There is a cumulative effect of ADHD over time. That is why early diagnose and support is so imperative. For kids who have been receiving negative feedback at home, in daycare or at school over years without any understanding that a lot of what they are being reprimanded for is an aspect of their unique neural wiring and not always under their control. This can have a detrimental effect, or cumulative toxicity for feeling like a failure, feeling the the “bad kid”, feeling stupid or not good enough. ADHD is not a measure of intelligence, it relates to self-management skills and executive functions.

The main 3 traits of ADHD include:

 inattention (not being able to keep focus, making careless mistakes), hyperactivity (excess movement in inappropriate settings) and impulsivity (acts that occur without forethought).

There are 3 presentations of ADHD recognized: (Further explanations and check list are below)

Predominately Inattentive 

Predominatingly Hyperactive/Impulsive

Combined (a combination of all 3)

The impairment of ADHD can range from mild, moderate to severe. The symptoms that the child has may vary and change over time.

When following the DSM criteria children must display at least 6 characteristics in more than one setting (home, school, child care, social settings) and be present for over 6 months to be diagnosed with ADHD. This persistent pattern of inattention and or hyperactivity/ impulsivity that interferes with functioning and development. 

It is a chronic condition that requires layered care. A diagnosis may be made at any age. Typically with girls who present with inattentive ADHD may be discovered later as characteristic appear more inwardly.

ADHD impacts many areas of ones life and physical, mental, emotional and social development. Emotional regulation and Executive functioning skills (organization, time management, sustained focus, memory) are impacted by ADHD.

There are also many co-morbidities attached with ADHD. 80% of individuals with ADHD will also have a concurrent issue, 50% have 2 other disorders and 20% have 3 or more. 

These could include:

Anxiety

Depression

ODD

Learning differences

ASD

In the right environment with the right support and nurturance, kids with ADHD have so much to offer. They can be creative, out of the box thinkers; inventive and unique problem solvers;  the kids that will ask a lot of questions to push the envelop. They can be clever, adventurous, aware and compassionate. They can be anything!

For more information regarding  diagnosis, support and everything ADHD check out the blog!