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Things To Know About ADHD & ADD
Questions and Answers
Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized as a childhood neurodevelopmental disorder affecting an estimated 10% of children between the ages of 4-17years of age.
Do I have ADHD?
The symptoms of Attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder arise during childhood most noticeably during the school age years. Generally, speaking ADHD formerly known as Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a common neurobehavioral disorder. Prominent symptoms include behavior and cognitive disturbances that are excessive, inappropriate, and debilitating. These symptoms interfere with normal development of family, education, and social skills.
What causes ADHD?
Multiple contributing factors have been identified and research continues to lack sufficient evidence that would point to a particular etiology. There is strong evidence that suggests familial predisposition (runs in families, mom or dad). ADHD is inherited at a rate of about 75%. Some other risk factors or substances that can contribute include low birth weight, exposure to cigarette, alcohol, herbicides (during the fetal period); lead exposure afterbirth, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Why Should I get help?
The symptoms of ADHD can be disabling and may include poor time management, poor school/ college functioning, excessive fidgety (unable to sit still), excessive talking, avoiding tasks that demand attention such as school work, poor organization skills, difficulty following three step commands (for older children), making impulsive decisions are ideally associated with ADHD and classically described in the literature (DSM-5). Patients suffering from these symptoms are likely to suffer in accomplishing their normal developmental milestones. In adults, loss of educational interest, problems with forgetfulness, disorganization and problems meeting deadlines are just a few of the challenges.
Why should I seek treatment ?
Children with ADHD may become easily overwhelmed, frustrated, acting out, fighting, difficult to control in the class room, or disengaged from the learning environment obtaining low grades due to lack of attention during class.
How is ADHD treated?
A comprehensive psychiatric assessment must be performed to document the current symptoms, level of impairment, contributing factors, and past medication trials. Medication trial is warranted for school age, adolescent, and adults. Medications are second line treatment in preschool age children. (2018-2019 Florida Best Practice Psychotherapeutic Medication Guidelines for Children and Adolescents)
In school age children and adolescents, the psychosocial environment including school, and home must be evaluated in context of the presenting symptoms. First line treatment for ADHD includes a stimulant trial which evidence supports as the standard of care.
Adults suffering from untreated ADHD would benefit from a trial of stimulant ONLY after a comprehensive psychiatric assessment is performed by a licensed mental healthcare professional.