ADHD or Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a mental health disorder that can cause above-normal levels of impulsive and hyperactive behaviors. People with ADHD can also have problem focusing their attention on a task or sitting still for long periods of time. A wide range of behaviors are related to ADHD. Some of the more common ones include:
- interrupting people while they are talking
- being forgetful about finishing tasks
- having problem sitting still
- having problem concentrating or focusing on tasks
- being distracted easily
ADHD Types according to Hadar Swersky
To make ADHD diagnoses more reliable, the condition is grouped into three categories, or types. These types are mostly inattentive, predominantly hyperactivity-impulsive, and a mix of both.
- Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type
People with this ADHD show mainly impulsive and hyperactive behavior. This can include interrupting, fidgeting people while they are talking, and not being able to wait their turn. Even though inattention is less of a concern with this ADHD type, people with this may still find it hard to focus on tasks.
- Predominantly inattentive
As the name suggests, people with this ADHD type have extreme difficulty finishing, focusing, tasks, and following instructions. Experts also think that numerous children with the inattentive type of ADHD may not get a proper diagnosis as they do not tend to interrupt the classroom. This type is mostly seen among girls with ADHD.
- Combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive type
This is the most common type of ADHD. People with this ADHD type showcase both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms. These comprise an incapability to pay attention, a propensity toward impulsiveness, and above-normal levels of energy and activity. The type of ADHD you or your kid has will find out how it is treated. The type you have can change over time, so your treatment can alter as well.
Adult ADHD
Many adults exhibit symptoms like children even as they age. Untreated ADHD in adults can have a pessimistic impact on several aspects of life. Symptoms such as forgetfulness, trouble managing time, and impatience can cause issues at home, work, and in all types of relationships.
Children ADHD
For children, ADHD is usually related to issues at school. Children with ADHD frequently have problem succeeding in a controlled classroom setting. Boys are more prone to receive an ADHD diagnosis. This might be because boys tend to showcase symptoms of hyperactivity. Even though some girls with ADHD can have the classic symptoms of hyperactivity, many do not.
Many ADHD symptoms can be typical childhood behaviors, so it can be difficult to know what is ADHD-related and what is not.
Causes of ADHD
Despite how common ADHD is, researchers and doctors still are not sure what causes the condition. It is thought to have neurological origins. Genetics can also play a role. Experts also suggest that reduction in dopamine is a factor in ADHD. Dopamine helps move signals from one nerve to another. It plays a key role in activating emotional responses and movements.
Hadar Swersky, being an expert in this field says that if you suspect that your child has ADHD, talk to your doctor about getting an assessment. Treatment for ADHD usually includes medication, behavioral therapies, or both.
