ADHD : Attention Deficit Hyperavtivity Disorder

     A child’s mischievous behavior may be more than just playfulness—it could be a signal from the body warranting closer attention. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one such condition that requires not only medical treatment but also emotional care. Love and understanding from those around the child become an essential form of emotional support and healing.

What is ADHD ?

     ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual in three primary areas: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms often occur simultaneously and are typically more pronounced than in children of the same age and developmental stage.

Contributing Factors to ADHD

     Genetics is the most common cause of ADHD. Current medical research has identified multiple genes associated with the condition. Environmental factors also play a role—for example, lead exposure, maternal smoking during pregnancy, and premature birth. Parenting style does not cause ADHD but can influence the severity of the symptoms.

Underlying Mechanisms of ADHD

     Medical experts believe that dysfunction in Executive Function (EF) and motivation are key mechanisms underlying ADHD. These are associated with abnormalities in certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Additionally, studies have shown irregularities in three areas of the brain in individuals with ADHD: the prefrontal cortex, the basal ganglia, and the cerebellum, which are involved in movement coordination and balance.

Executive Function (EF)

     Executive Function refers to higher-order brain functions involving self-regulation, goal setting, and problem-solving. Supporting EF development through age-appropriate activities is essential to helping children regulate themselves, retain working memory, and engage in flexible, analytical thinking. Most importantly, children need to feel a sense of self-worth to thrive in these areas.

Symptoms of ADHD

Children with ADHD may exhibit symptoms in three major areas:

• Inattention: Forgetfulness, distractibility, failure to follow instructions, and difficulty sustaining attention.
• Hyperactivity: Restlessness, excessive talking, frequent movement, climbing or fidgeting, and disrupting others.
• Impulsivity: Impatience, interrupting conversations, difficulty waiting for turns, and emotional outbursts when things don't go as expected.

Symptoms may appear before the age of 7. Some children with ADHD also experience co-occurring psychiatric disorders, such as learning disabilities, anxiety disorders, or conduct-related problems.

Diagnosis and Treatment

     Diagnosis is based on history-taking, including interviews with parents and assessments of the child’s behavior. Physicians gather detailed information regarding developmental milestones, parenting style, family history, and any physical illnesses. Specific ADHD screening tools and psychological assessments are then used to support the diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is made, an individualized treatment and therapy plan is developed.

Love & Understanding: Emotional Support For Children

Since attention deficits are the core issue in ADHD, care and understanding, an empathetic approach that seeks to connect with the child's inner world are vital. This involves:

• Creating a calm, open environment
• Setting simple daily routines using a visual calendar
• Breaking down tasks into manageable parts and offering light assistance
• Teaching patience and organization through role modeling
• Using gentle tones and redirecting attention when disruptive behavior arises
• Praising the child for accomplishments to reinforce positive behavior

Providing both medical and emotional support plays a pivotal role in the holistic care of children with ADHD. A nurturing environment can greatly influence their ability to manage challenges and flourish.