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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

 
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has become one of the most frequent psychiatric disorders in children. The symptoms of ADHD vary, but normally include lack of focus, not paying attention, losing train of thought, hyperactivity, impulsive behavior and problems with organizing activities. These symptoms will normally become evident sometime during the preschool or elementary school years. They can persist for a long time and even continue into adulthood. For some, effective treatments include both medications and behavior therapies designed for those with ADHD.
 

ADHD Causes

The cause of ADHD is not currently known. Some of those who have studied the condition believe it is caused by social factors or that it may be caused by certain child-rearing methods. As studies continue, scientists are developing newer theories concern the cause of ADHD. Of these newer theories, many believe the condition is brought about by brain injury or genetics. It is no longer considered true that food additives or high doses of sugar cause ADHD.
 

ADHD Symptoms

ADHD Symptoms are often slow to form. In fact, it might take more than a year for all of them to appear. In many people, impulsiveness and hyperactivity are the first symptoms to be noticed. Afterwards, the person may present with inattention issues. The specific symptoms most often seen include (but are not limited to) problems when it comes to organizing activities, constant fidgeting, and talking excessively. It is no secret that most normal children also behave in these fashions at times. But they do so with less intensity and frequency. An accurate diagnosis of ADHD can be performed by qualified health professionals.
 
ADHD Diagnosis ADHD, as just mentioned, can be hard to diagnose properly. This is simply because many people show the same principal symptoms which include hyperactivity, inattention, and behavior that is impulsive. Reaching a proper diagnosis requires observations that this behavior is inappropriate, age-wise and intensity-wise. There are also other very specific guidelines that are used in diagnosing ADHD.
 

ADHD Treatment

Treatment for ADHD can begin once an accurate diagnosis has been made. It must be noted that for ADHD treatment, no single treatment has been found that works on everyone with the condition. Each patient requires personalized treatment plans that are based on several factors. Some of these factors include: the child's needs, his or her personal history as well as their medical history. For most patients, both medication and psycho therapy are the best options for those with ADHD.
 
As for medications, ADHD patients seem to do better when treated with stimulants. Keep in mind that some children will react better to a particular medication than others. It will take some time and experimenting by your healthcare provider before he or she is able to find the best medicine for the patient along with the correct dosage. The medications used will not cure ADHD. At best, they are only capable of controlling the symptoms, usually one day at a time.
 
Here is a list of common ADHD prescription medications: Behavior therapy is often an important component to treating ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). There are many types of behavior therapy, but for ADHD the most common forms include: interventions, improved social skills, along with parenting skills training. Parents can play an important role in improving the child's behavior when they set and enforce rules. They should also set up and maintain a regular schedule, and help the child in organizing everyday items like his or her clothing, toys, and school supplies.
 

ADHD and Depression

ADHD and depression are actually two common disorders that affect children. It has been shown, that many times, the two appear together. Studies show that 30 percent of those with ADHD will also suffer from depression. While they may be shared, the symptoms are different for each. Being unable to focus for a period of time is common for ADHD, but not for depression. Depression will often show itself with thoughts of extreme sadness, hopelessness, and emptiness.
 

Choosing a Doctor to Treat ADHD

Not all doctors are qualified to treat ADHD patients. For this reason, make sure you work with a professional who has been trained in this disorder. A good place to start is with your child's pediatrician. He or she may be able to refer you to an expert in this area. You can also consult with State and local mental health agencies. They can often refer you to a qualified ADHD doctor.
 

Learn more information about ADHD from the following resources:

National Institute of Mental Health - Information on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Mental health information and services - Behavioral Treatment for ADHD
Information about Health for Teens - ADHD Symptoms
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - What parents should know about ADHD.