Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that becomes apparent in some children in the preschool and early school years. It is hard for these children to control their behaviour and/or pay attention. It is estimated that between 3 and 5 percent of children have ADHD. This means that in a classroom of 25 to 30 children, it is likely that at least one will have ADHD.
A child with ADHD faces a difficult but not insurmountable task ahead. In order to achieve his or her full potential, he or she should receive help, guidance, and understanding from parents, guidance counsellors, and the education system.
The principal characteristics of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms appear early in a child’s life. Because many normal children may have these symptoms, but at a low level, or the symptoms may be caused by another disorder, it is important that the child receive a thorough examination and appropriate diagnosis by a well-qualified professional.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a highly publicised childhood disorder. What is much less well known is the probability that, of children who have ADHD, many will still have it as adults. Several studies done in recent years estimate that between 30 percent and 70 percent of children with ADHD continue to exhibit symptoms in the adult years.
Typically, adults with ADHD are unaware that they have this disorder — they often just feel that it’s impossible to get organised, to stick to a job, to keep an appointment. The everyday tasks of getting up, getting dressed and ready for the day’s work, getting to work on time, and being productive on the job can be major challenges for the ADHD adult.
Extracted from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) are developing guidelines for the management of ADHD. They also have guidance on the use of methylphenidate, atomoxetine and dexamfetamine for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents.