Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically begins in childhood but can persist into adulthood. ADHD affects approximately 3% to 12% of children and adolescents. It manifests with symptoms such as inattention, excessive hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Individuals with ADHD often experience difficulties in school performance, social relationships, family interactions, and in general social settings.

For an ADHD diagnosis, the symptoms must have started at an early age and must have been present consistently for at least 6 months in more than one environment. Additionally, these symptoms must cause significant impairment in social and academic functioning.

Research indicates that genetic factors play a major role in the development of ADHD, with a high rate of heritability. Environmental factors such as substance use during pregnancy, exposure to heavy metals or chemicals, dietary habits, and psychosocial factors may also contribute significantly to the onset of ADHD.

ADHD is an Executive Function Disorder. Executive functions refer to a set of skills that are essential for achieving goals. These include integrating incoming information, setting goals, planning, initiating actions, self-regulation, and working without being easily distracted.

Individuals with ADHD frequently struggle with task procrastination. Even when they understand the importance of a task, they have difficulty starting it and often wait until the urgency of the task becomes apparent.

The attention of individuals with ADHD can be easily distracted by external stimuli or their own internal thoughts. They often have difficulty focusing on tasks such as reading and may need to reread material multiple times to comprehend it. They may also struggle to sustain attention on a single topic.

People with ADHD experience difficulties in controlling their behavior. They may act impulsively when making decisions, often responding quickly without thinking and failing to notice the reactions of others.

Treatment for ADHD is divided into two main categories: pharmacological and non-pharmacological. In non-pharmacological treatments, regular physical exercise has been shown to improve attention, reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity, and enhance executive functions. The most important non-pharmacological intervention in ADHD is parent training. Parent training aims to support parents in developing positive behaviors in their child, managing negative behaviors, and improving the child’s self-regulation skills. Therefore, positive parenting programs are highly beneficial for parents of children diagnosed with ADHD.

Pharmacological treatments for ADHD are initiated when deemed necessary by a child and adolescent psychiatrist, after obtaining the views of both the family and the child. There are basically three main groups of medications used in ADHD:

1. Stimulant medications (Ritalin, Medikinet, Concerta),

2. Non-stimulant medications (Atomoxetine),

3. Guanfacine group medications.

The decision on which medication group to start with is made jointly by the specialist, the family, and the child.