Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) This is a Developmental Disorder in which certain traits, such as impulse control, lag in development

2. ADHD • Is classified as a disruptive behavior disorder along with: • Oppositional defiant disorder • Conduct disorder • Antisocial disorder

3. ADHD • Is a neurological (a disorder of the body's nervous system. Structural, biochemical or electrical abnormalities in the brain or spinalcord, or in the nerves leading to or from them)and developmental disorder • It may affect certain areas of the brain that allow problem solving, planning ahead, understanding others’ actions and impulse control

4. Symptoms or Key Behaviors • Inattention • Hyperactivity • Impulsivity

5. Inattentive • Easily distracted, miss details, forget things and frequently switch from one activity to another • Difficulty focusing on one thing • Become bored with a task after only a few minutes, unless they are doing something enjoyable • Difficulty focusing attention on organizing and completing a task or learning something new

6. Inattentive - continued • Have trouble completing or turning in homework assignments, often losing things (pencils, toys, assignments) needed to complete tasks or activities • Not seem to listen when spoken to • Daydream, become easily confused and move slowly • Have difficulty processing information as quickly and accurately as others • Struggle to follow instructions

7. Hyperactive • Fidget and squirm in their seats • Talk nonstop • Dash around, touching or playing with anything and everything in sight • Have trouble sitting still during dinner, school and story time • Be constantly in motion • Have difficulty doing quiet tasks or activities

8. Impulsivity • Be very impatient • Blurt out inappropriate comments, show their emotions without restraint, and act without regard for consequences • Have difficulty waiting for things they want or waiting their turns in games

9. Information • A 2009 study found that children with ADHD move around a lot because it helps them stay alert enough to complete challenging tasks • ADHD may accompany other disorders such as anxiety or depression – this greatly complicates diagnosis and treatment • A specific cause is not known but possible factors may contribute to ADHD (next slide)

10. Factors which may contribute to ADHD • Genetic = hereditary • Environmental factors = alcohol and tobacco smoke exposure during pregnancy and exposure to lead in very early life. Also complications during pregnancy and birth • Diet = commonly used artificial food colors; and the preservative, sodium benzoate • Social = violence and emotional abuse

11. Before diagnosis the following must be present • The behaviors must appear before age 7 • They must continue for at least 6 months • The symptoms must also create a real handicap in at least two of the following areas of the child’s life: • In the classroom • On the playground • At home • In the community • In social settings

12. Adult ADHD • It is estimated that 8 million adults have ADHD in the USA • Untreated adults often have chaotic lifestyles, may appear disorganized and may rely on non-prescribed drugs and alcohol to get by • They often have associated psychiatric comorbidities such as depression, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse or a learning disability

13. Diagnosis • A psychiatric assessment is done by a qualified professional in the field, based on certain criteria • Physical examination, radiological imaging and laboratory tests, to rule out other possible causes • Information obtained about the child’s signs, in more than one setting

14. Management • Behavior modification • Life-style changes • Counseling • Medication • A combination of medical management and behavioral treatment is the most effective • Support groups help families cope with the challenges they face