About Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - or ADHD - is a real, and manageable, medical condition that affects millions of children and adolescents. ADHD is not a discipline problem - and definitely not a myth.
What science has taught us about ADHD
Every day, millions of brain cells (or neurons) communicate with one another using chemicals (called neurotransmitters). However, messages relating to emotion, behaviour, thinking and attention are generated by two specific neurotransmitters, noradrenaline and dopamine. The belief is that these specific neurotransmitters may affect ADHD. Whether there's an imbalance or an impairment of these neurotransmitters is unclear, and continues to be the subject of medical research.
ADHD medications are thought to influence the balance of noradrenaline and dopamine in the brain, which helps to improve the chemical communication between all neurotransmitters. It's still not known precisely how ADHD medications correct the balance.
How you might identify ADHD
You should not assume that a child has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder because of a few low grades or bursts of excitability every now and then. In fact, ADHD symptoms are persistent and present in multiple settings - whether it's home, school or during extracurricular activities.
However, some signs may indicate that ADHD could be the reason for your child's behaviour. Be aware of:
- Concerns from multiple sources (a babysitter, parents of your child's friends, a teacher or sports coach) that your child's inattention or hyperactive behaviour is causing significant disturbance
- A persistently high activity level that affects others or causes injury
- Changes in your child's emotion and activity level that are not a result of a recent family crisis or alteration in routine
How a medical professional determines ADHD
First and foremost: a proper Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder diagnosis must come from a medical professional. Your child's doctor or psychologist will make an ADHD diagnosis based on established medical criteria.
How to confirm it is ADHD
If you are concerned your child may have ADHD, your next step is to schedule an evaluation by a doctor. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, you and your doctor should work together to treat the condition. Research indicates that a successful ADHD treatment program combines medication with a behavioural modification program. Talk to your doctor about treatment options and get the whole family behind your plan.
A note about ADHD
To meet an Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder diagnosis, six or more of the diagnostic symptoms established by professionals must have been present for at least 6 months to a point that is disruptive and inappropriate for the child's developmental level. Your child's doctor will review your concerns and discuss the ADHD diagnostic criteria with you during the appropriate office visit.
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