ADHD is common in children and teenagers and, with the right medication and treatment, can be successfully managed allowing your child to reach their full potential and enjoy their lives.
ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and ADD (attention deficit disorder) are neurodevelopmental conditions affecting thousands of families in the UK.
ADHD and ADD are psychiatric disorders characterised by impulsive, hyperactive or inattentive behaviour. The child may appear ‘naughty’, can struggle in school and home settings and be challenging to parent. With the right help, children and teenagers with ADHD and ADD are much more able to reach their full potential.
ADHD in children is thought to result from many genetic and environmental factors interacting.
Children with a family history of ADHD are much more likely to have the condition themselves.
Many children with ADHD have been found to have slightly different gene structures. One study found a greater number of ‘copy number variants’ (a term used to refer to deletions and duplications of certain chromosomes)1 in children with ADHD.
Brain imaging has shown a difference in the brain size of children with ADHD.
Brain maturation is slower in children with ADHD; grey matter maturity is approximately 3 years behind that of children who do not have ADHD2.
The levels of neurotransmitters – the chemicals that deliver messages in the brain – are different in children with ADHD. Noradrenaline, linked to our ability to pay attention, and dopamine, linked to our ability to control impulses, have been found in lower levels in children with ADHD. Medications, such as Ritalin, can be successfully used to adjust the levels of brain chemicals.
Premature birth and low birth weights are linked to an increased chance of ADHD.
Factors such as alcohol, drug and cigarette use during pregnancy have links to a greater likelihood of ADHD.
You can read more about the Causes of ADHD
Dr Banerjea has helped my son so much, we are eternally grateful for the care and compassion he offered us when we were at an all-time low.
It’s common for parents to worry that something they have done might have caused ADHD. We know this isn’t true. The following are common factors that parents think might have led to their child developing ADHD: