Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder in children and teens that is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Boys are more likely to be diagnosed in early school years. Children with ADHD struggle with time management, relationships, self-esteem, and organization. Symptoms persist into adulthood and can include anxiety, low self-esteem, forgetfulness, anger issues, impulsivity, and substance abuse. ADHD is caused by genetic and neurological factors such as chemical imbalances and less activity in areas of the brain controlling attention. Treatment involves medications, behavioral therapy, special education, social skills training, and psychotherapy.

1. ATTENTION DEFICIT
HYPERACTIVITY
DISORDER
( ADHD)

2. ◦ Affects children and teens continues to childhood.
◦ Children with ADHD are:
1. Hyperactive.
2. Unable to control pulses.
3. Have trouble paying attention.
◦ ADHD is most common in boys and diagnosed in early school years.
◦ Children with ADHD has problems managing time, setting goals, relationship problems, lower
self-esteem, addiction, job problems and are unorganized.

3. Symptoms of ADHD in children
◦ Symptoms in children are grouped into three categories:
◦ Inattention
1. Easily distracted
2. Doesn’t pay attention
3. Careless mistakes
4. Problems in listening
5. Doesn’t follow instructions / finish tasks
6. Forgot daily activities
7. Unorganized
8. Can’t sit for long time

4. ◦ Hyperactivity:
1. Squirm and bounces during sitting
2. Talk excessively
3. Always “ on the go “ situation
4. Doesn’t stay seated
5. Doesn’t play quietly
6. Always climbing, moving, running
◦ Impulsivity
1. Doesn’t wait for their turn
2. Give answers without thinking

5. Symptoms of ADHD in adults
1. Anxiety
2. Low self-esteem
3. Chronic lateness or forgetfulness
4. Problem in working
5. Difficulty in controlling anger
6. Impulsivity
7. Unorganized
8. Substance abuse / addiction
9. Procrastination
10. Mood swings

6. Causes of ADHD
◦ Heredity
Runs in family
◦ Chemical imbalance
Brain chemicals are out of balance.
◦ Brain changes
Area of brain that control attention are less active.
◦ Toxins e.g lead affect brain development.
◦ Poor nutrition, infections, smoking, drinking, substance abuse during pregnancy affect brain
development.

7. ◦ Brain injury or brain disorder
Front of brain, called frontal lobe’s damage cause problems with controlling impulses and
emotions.

8. Treatment
◦ Medications
Stimulants and non- stimulants ( older than six years).
◦ Therapy
1. Behavior modification
Replace bad behaviour into good one.
2. Special education
Complete and balanced routine.
3. Psychotherapy
Help to learn ways to control their emotions and frustration and improve their self-esteem.

9. 4. Social skills training
Teach behaviours such as sharing and taking turns.