ADHD and co-existing conditions
ADHD frequently occurs in the presence of other psychiatric disorders (referred to as comorbidities in the language of medical professionals) and this co-existence tends to manifest itself in different ways across the life span of the disorder. For instance, in childhood, the most common comorbidities might be Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD), while in adolescence the emergence of substance abuse problems and depression and anxiety might be more frequent.
Disorders that may commonly accompany ADHD are:
Oppositional defiant disorder
Is a persistent pattern of uncooperative, defiant, and hostile behaviour towards others that seriously interferes with a child's day to day functioning. Overseas studies have demonstrated that anywhere between 54%-84% of children and adolescents with ADHD may also exhibit symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder. This condition is discernible primarily with boys and manifests through symptoms such as argumentativeness, defiance of rules and regulations and high levels of constant irritation or anger, often being spiteful and losing their temper.
Conduct disorder
Is a more severe and repetitive pattern of behaviour, which includes a general violation towards rules of society and aggression towards others. Conduct disorder behaviours are grouped into the following four categories: (a) aggressive conduct that causes or threatens physical harm to other people or animals, (b) non-aggressive conduct that causes property loss or damage, (c) deceitfulness or theft, and (d) serious violations of rules. About 20-40% of children may suffer from conduct disorder in addition to their ADHD.
Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety disorders may occur in approximately one third of children with ADHD, whereas the depressive disorders can occur in 0-33%. Marked disturbances in mood and thought processes may suggest the presence of a Co-existing disorder. Generally, appropriate management of ADHD may assist the amelioration of mood or anxiety symptoms.
Learning Disabilities
Up to 30 % of children with ADHD may also have specific learning disabilities either as a direct result of their inattentive or behavioural problems or as a separate issue. They may experience significant delays in one or more academic or developmental areas. Learning difficulties are often the result of an intellectual disability, physical and sensory disabilities, or emotional difficulties.