The definition of ADHD is a medical condition that affects how well someone can sit still, focus, and pay attention.
People with ADHD have differences in the parts of their brains that control attention and activity.
ADHD, also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD) or hyperkinetic disorder, has been around a lot longer than most people realize.
In fact, a condition that appears to be similar to ADHD was described by Hippocrates, who lived from 460 to 370 BC.
This form of illness is usually diagnosed in childhood, although the condition can continue into the adult years.
It is considered a common disorder in Canada and that it mainly affected boys.
Of all children referred to mental health professionals about 35% are referred for ADHD, more than for any other condition.
ADHD research scientists are currently developing possible theories about the causes of ADHD.
Some of these theories include environmental agents, brain injury, and genetics.
Since ADHD often runs in families, studies with twins have shown that ADHD is inherited so these changes may be partly genetic.
This illness may be suspected by a parent or caretaker or may go unnoticed until the child runs into problems at school.
And given that ADHD tends to affect functioning most strongly in school, sometimes the teacher is the first to recognize that a child is hyperactive or inattentive and may point it out to the parents and/or consult with the school psychologist.
But it can also affect adults, and ADHD adults may benefit from going to work early to accomplish tasks before coworkers arrive and phones begin ringing.
Most adults are aware of their "personal clock" and know their prime times for completing intellectually demanding tasks.
Since 1993, use of stimulant drugs to treat ADHD has more than tripled worldwide, according to one study and is used by most people who suffer from this illness.
But make sure you try to get help as soon as you notice any form of this illness so you can tackle it as soon as possible.
People with ADHD have differences in the parts of their brains that control attention and activity.
ADHD, also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD) or hyperkinetic disorder, has been around a lot longer than most people realize.
In fact, a condition that appears to be similar to ADHD was described by Hippocrates, who lived from 460 to 370 BC.
This form of illness is usually diagnosed in childhood, although the condition can continue into the adult years.
It is considered a common disorder in Canada and that it mainly affected boys.
Of all children referred to mental health professionals about 35% are referred for ADHD, more than for any other condition.
ADHD research scientists are currently developing possible theories about the causes of ADHD.
Some of these theories include environmental agents, brain injury, and genetics.
Since ADHD often runs in families, studies with twins have shown that ADHD is inherited so these changes may be partly genetic.
This illness may be suspected by a parent or caretaker or may go unnoticed until the child runs into problems at school.
And given that ADHD tends to affect functioning most strongly in school, sometimes the teacher is the first to recognize that a child is hyperactive or inattentive and may point it out to the parents and/or consult with the school psychologist.
But it can also affect adults, and ADHD adults may benefit from going to work early to accomplish tasks before coworkers arrive and phones begin ringing.
Most adults are aware of their "personal clock" and know their prime times for completing intellectually demanding tasks.
Since 1993, use of stimulant drugs to treat ADHD has more than tripled worldwide, according to one study and is used by most people who suffer from this illness.
But make sure you try to get help as soon as you notice any form of this illness so you can tackle it as soon as possible.
SHARE