Understanding ADHD in Children
At a young age, children can often tear through the house like a tornado, leaving messes behind. Especially young boys may enjoy roughhousing, climbing on furniture, and losing interest in their toys after just a few minutes. For many parents, these years are exhausting but temporary. Children under the age of five often show these behaviors as a part of their developing neurological systems. What is ADHD, and how can we look for signs that our child may have it?
When to Ask, “What Is ADHD?”
Parents may ask, “What is ADHD?” when their children continue behaviors typical of younger children, disrupt the classroom, are challenging to parent, and have trouble completing basic tasks.
In some cases, these behaviors don’t go away after the child reaches kindergarten or first grade. Instead, they may seem to stay the same or even get worse. This perception may come from the expectation that as children grow, their behavior will improve.
What Is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition where the brain’s chemicals don’t function the same way as they do in others. These chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, affect the organization of thoughts and produce symptoms linked to ADHD.
Types of ADHD Symptoms
Children and adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder have similar and different symptoms. These symptoms depend on the type of ADHD the person has. There is a type where the person is mostly hyperactive, another type where they are inattentive, and a third type with a mixture of both.
How Common Is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a common disorder, especially among boys, affecting between 5% and 10% of the population. The prevalence varies based on the community’s social norms. Some communities may not accept disruptive behavior and quickly seek medication, while others may not.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Getting an accurate assessment early can lead to effective treatment and better outcomes. Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder may struggle in school, reading, math, and making friends. These skills are essential for growing into productive and happy adults.
The Role of Early Intervention and Diagnosis
Early intervention, whether behavioral or medical, helps children and parents build better relationships. It also helps children adapt to their environment. If you think your child has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, speak with your doctor. They will likely recommend an evaluation that includes feedback from parents, teachers, and the doctor. This full evaluation helps see the complete picture.
ADHD Versus Other Behaviors
ADHD affects behavior across most settings. If a child disrupts the classroom but acts easily and calmly in all other situations, a different issue may be present, requiring a complete evaluation.
ADHD: A Topic of Debate
The question “What is ADHD?” has sparked debate in many communities. Some view young boys’ antics as typical, while others find it hard to tolerate. The point at which normal behavior becomes Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder-related behavior varies, depending on parents and physicians.
RESOURCES
KidsHealth: What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/adhd.html
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: What is ADHD
https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Children-Who-Cant-Pay-Attention-Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-Disorder-006.aspxhttps://www.aacap.org/cs/adhd_a_guide_for_families/what_is_adhd
National Institute of Mental Health: What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml
MayoClinic: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
https://apps.asha.org/EvidenceMaps/Maps/LandingPage/32e4ebdf-262c-4036-9777-5cfb882bf731
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