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Psychology & ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a psychological disorder that affects an individual's attention span, activity level and ability to learn successfully. While ADHD is mostly associated with children, millions of adults also suffer from this disorder. While there is no cure for ADHD, it can be treated with a combination of medication and behavior therapy.

  1. Symptoms

    • Children with ADHD can display dozens of symptoms. The most common symptoms of ADHD include impatience, poor impulse control, difficulty paying attention, easily forgetting common tasks, difficulty staying in one place, fidgeting, interrupting others and displaying inappropriate behaviors. Children with ADHD are often constantly in trouble at home and at school.

    Diagnosis

    • While it is normal for young children to have a low attention span, children with ADHD have a difficult time paying attention both at home and at school. Hyperactivity is also common in young children, but when ADHD is present the activity is significantly pronounced. Parents who believe that their child's inattentiveness or hyperactivity is having a negative impact on his life should consult a child psychologist to either diagnose or rule out ADHD. The typical age of onset for the disorder is between the ages of 3 and 6. A psychologist will consult with the parents and then assess the child to make a diagnosis.

    Treatment

    • Because every child's needs are different, there is no single form of treatment that is successful in all children. A psychologist will most likely recommend medication, along with psychotherapy to help the child cope with the disorder and to teach positive behaviors. Typical medications for ADHD include Adderall, Focalin XR, Ritalin and Strattera.

    Side Effects of Medication

    • Many children will experience side effects with their ADHD medications. While side effects are common in almost all medications, there are warning signs that your child's medication should be changed. Tell the doctor if your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms: poor appetite, facial or motor tics, sleeplessness or significant weight gain.

    ADHD in Adults

    • Many adults with ADHD are unaware that they have the disorder. Symptoms in adults are similar to those in children but maturity often makes the symptoms less noticeable. Adults with ADHD may have a history of problems with holding down jobs, maintaining personal relationships and inappropriate behavior. Medication and therapy can help adults living with ADHD manage their symptoms, improve performance in the workplace and achieve stability in their personal lives. A majority of children with ADHD will still have the disorder as they grow into adulthood.

    Outlook

    • Children and adults with ADHD can live fulfilling and happy lives despite having this disorder. Continuing to take medication and participate in counseling and behavior management is vital to people living with ADHD and to their families.

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