ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, which is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.
It's important to note that ADHD is a lifelong condition, but with proper treatment and support, individuals with ADHD can lead fulfilling lives and achieve their goals.
Symptoms of ADHD Inattention:
Difficulty Sustaining Attention: Trouble focusing on tasks, especially those that are not immediately interesting.
Careless Mistakes: Frequent errors in schoolwork, work, or other activities due to oversight.
Avoiding Tasks: Reluctance to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort, like homework or detailed projects.
Disorganization: Difficulty managing tasks and activities, often leading to a cluttered or chaotic environment.
Losing Items: Frequently misplacing necessary items like keys, glasses, or school materials.
Easily Distracted: Being sidetracked by irrelevant stimuli, losing track of tasks or conversations.
Forgetfulness: Often forgetting daily activities, appointments, or tasks.
Hyperactivity and Impulsivity:
Fidgeting: Inability to sit still, often moving hands, feet, or squirming in a seat.
Restlessness: Feeling constantly "on the go" or acting as if "driven by a motor."
Excessive Talking: Talking excessively, even when it is inappropriate or disruptive.
Interrupting Others: Frequently interrupting conversations or activities, or intruding on others' games or tasks.
Difficulty Waiting: Impatience or difficulty waiting for one's turn, such as in lines or during games.
Blurting Out Answers: Answering questions before they have been fully asked or interrupting others mid-sentence.
Inability to Engage Quietly: Difficulty participating in leisure activities quietly, often being noisy or disruptive.
Causes of ADHD
Genetics: A strong hereditary link, with ADHD often running in families.
Brain Structure and Function: Differences in the structure and function of brain regions involved in attention, impulse control, and executive functioning.
Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Abnormal levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which are involved in regulating attention and behavior.
Prenatal Factors: Exposure to alcohol, tobacco, drugs, or environmental toxins during pregnancy can increase the risk of ADHD.
Premature Birth: Being born prematurely or with low birth weight is associated with a higher risk of developing ADHD.
Environmental Toxins: Exposure to lead or other toxins in early childhood may contribute to ADHD symptoms.
Brain Injuries: A history of significant head injuries can be a contributing factor in some cases of ADHD.
Maternal Stress During Pregnancy: High levels of stress during pregnancy may be linked to a higher risk of ADHD in children.
