Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a psychiatric diagnosis that includes symptoms of hyperactivity and/or difficulty paying attention. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 8.4 percent of children between the ages of 6 and 17 were diagnosed with ADHD between 2004 and 2006. This represented a 3 percent rise in diagnoses of ADHD since 1997.
History
ADHD was once only diagnosed in children, but now it is recognized that symptoms can continue into adulthood. However, ADHD cannot actually develop in adulthood. According to the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), symptoms must have appeared before age 7 in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. This may change somewhat with the publication of a revised manual (DSM-5). A proposal is being considered that would increase the age of symptom onset to age 12 as well as reduce the number of symptoms required for a diagnosis.
Features
In order for ADHD to be diagnosed, significant impairment must be evident in at least two aspects of the patient's life, such as school (or work), home life or social relationships. In other words, a diagnosis of ADHD would not be appropriate for a child who has difficulty paying attention in school but functions well in all other areas of his or her life. Rather, problems at home specifically due to inattention or hyperactivity must be evident, such as misbehavior or failure to meet responsibilities, and/or interpersonal relationships must be significantly affected by the inability to focus or hyperactive behavior.
Types
The DSM-IV requires that the type of ADHD is specified when making a diagnosis: predominantly inattentive type (what was previously called ADD), predominantly hyperactive type or combined type. Symptoms of hyperactivity include excessive fidgetiness and physical activity, inability to sit still, excessive talking or inability to do things quietly, and generally seeming revved up. Inattention symptoms include failure to pay attention to details, making careless mistakes, failure to follow through on work, difficulty organizing, losing things, being easily distracted and forgetful, and difficulty engaging in mentally strenuous activities.
Solutions
According to Children and Adults With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), a national advocacy group for people with ADHD, effective treatment employs a variety of methods. Symptoms should be addressed using parent training and education, consistent and clear behavioral strategies that include appropriate rewards and punishment, cooperation of the school, and medication when necessary.
Expert Insight
Although one specific cause of ADHD has not been identified, there is evidence that it is biological in nature. According to CHADD, research indicates a genetic component to ADHD. Additionally, research at Columbia University has shown significant differences in both brain structure and function between children with ADHD and those without the disorder.
