Hyperactivity in children is quite common, isn’t it? Not until it’s more serious than what it seems to be. Every 10th child in the age group of 5 to 7 years has ADHD. Moreover, ADHD problems in children are a neurodivergent condition that pertains lifelong, hence, it needs to be understood and well dealt with.
We’re going to look at:
- What is ADHD?
- ADD v/s ADHD
- What causes ADHD?
- Primarily hyperactive-impulsive type
- Primarily Inattentive type
- Primarily combined type
- Common symptoms in children
What is ADHD?
ADHD – Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurological disorder that manifests from childhood. ADHD problems in children affect the ability to carry out planning, focus, and execution of tasks. The common signs of ADHD are hyperactivity, inattention, impulsivity, improper organization of thoughts, execution of tasks, issues with focusing, and oppositional behavior.
ADHD is a distinct developmental disorder and not a mental illness or behavioral disorder. In India, ADHD is prevalent in 11.32% of primary school-going children. It is more commonly observed in boys than in girls, and the manifestations differ in both. This complex brain disorder is often complicated to diagnose in females and adults, but exists nevertheless and the signs of ADHD get quite ignored in our society.
ADD v/s ADHD:
ADD (Attention deficit disorder) was a former term, which is now identified as the inattentive type ADHD. ADD doesn’t include hyperactivity as a sign and falls as a type of ADHD.
Despite being a type of ADHD, the symptoms of ADD are very different. In ADHD, hyperactivity is caused due to inattention, while in ADD inattention is an indication of an executive dysfunction.
What causes ADHD?
ADHD problems in children are caused by biological and neurological issues. The imbalance of neurotransmitters and genetic factors are primary determiners of ADHD in children and adults.
ADHD in children is diagnosed with several forms of psychological and physiological assessments. It is determined through observation of signs of symptoms mentioned in the DSM-V and ICD10 based on set time periods.
Types of ADHD
There are 3 types of ADHD:
- Primarily hyperactive-impulsive– These individuals are highly impulsive, impatient, and have less control over their movements, interactions, interruptions, etc.
- Primarily inattentive (ADD) – These individuals face trouble focusing, following instructions, and finishing tasks. They seem more distracted and forgetful than usual.
- Primarily combined type – these individuals show mixed symptoms of the above types of ADHD.
Common symptoms in children
Symptoms of ADHD in children often help to recognize this disorder early. Each sub-type of ADHD shows distinct signs that require definite observation and assessments to be identified properly.
Here are some common signs of ADHD to look out for in your children:
- Lack of concentration
- Getting easily distracted
- Exaggerated emotions
- Attention seeking
- Restlessness
- Hyperactivity and Uncontrolled impulses
- Efficient time management
- Trouble in executive functioning
- Inability to sit still
- Talkativeness and frequent interruption
- Constant movement, squirming
- Fidgeting
Signs of ADHD in children can also be identified by teachers in schools as ADHD majorly impacts learning and performance. These symptoms must be brought to notice and catered to well.
How does MANAS Learning help?
Besides planning, organization, and management, supporting your child’s development and learning, includes proper awareness and assistance. Finding suitable treatments and administering them takes a lot of understanding of your child’s condition, which can be carried out through our scientifically-curated assessments.
Our ADHD assessment for children is simple and can be carried out online with ease. We also have ADHD assessments for adults and extend detailed reports dealing with treatment and remediation plans specific to your child’s ADHD level. Moreover, we guide parents to teach children at home with better plans and routines to improve nurturing right from the early years.
Take your online ADHD test today and enquire us for any help or consultation. We are here to guide your child’s neurodivergence through creativity, enthusiasm, and multi-sensory learning techniques.