SYMPTOMS OF ADHD IN CHILDREN
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that causes trouble between brain development and brain activity and results in inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness in an individual’s personality. This chronic condition affects millions of children and often lasts into adulthood.
The causes of ADHD are still unknown, however, research shows that it is a genetic disorder. It can commonly be found in siblings within the same family. An estimated 4 to 12% of children have ADHD, and boys are more likely to have these symptoms than girls. Children having lower brain functions and behavioral problems associated with ADHD can face difficulties with relationships and social interaction.
Children having ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) commonly have difficulties with:
Paying attention: they are unable to concentrate on tasks
Being hyperactive: it’s hard for them to sit still for a long time.
Controlling impulses: they do not think or say much before taking any action.
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All these difficulties have a huge impact on the daily lives of children having ADHD, and they might face more trouble with learning, thinking, expressing their feelings, or controlling their behavior rather than their peers. The symptoms of ADHD fall into two main categories.
1-Â Â Â Â Inattentiveness (difficulty in focusing and concentrating)
2-Â Â Â Â Hyperactivity and Impulsiveness
Inattentive symptoms mean that a child
Can be distracted easily due to short attention span, is unable to pay close attention to details, and makes careless mistakes.
Faces trouble in remembering everyday things and appears to be forgetful and often loses things.
Doesn’t listen properly and fails to follow given instructions.
Remains unable to finish daily tasks like homework or chores.
Avoids and ignores tasks that require mental effort, focus, and attention such as homework.
Constantly switches from one task to another and has difficulty in organizing the tasks.
Hyperactive and Impulsiveness means that a child
Has excessive physical movement, fidgets a lot, and can’t sit still in one place for a long time.
Talks excessively, interrupt conversations and doesn’t wait for their turn.
Always remain in constant motion and don’t show little or any sense of danger.
Remains unable to concentrate on a single task and acts without thinking.
Runs around or starts climbing objects in inappropriate situations.
Have trouble playing or doing any activity quietly.
Even if your child has any such symptoms as listed above, it doesn’t always mean that your child has ADHD. This is why a proper assessment of your child is required. Hence, being a parent, if you are worried about your child’s behavior for any reason, you may need to make an appointment with a GP or pediatrician who might refer you to a specialist, but it is important to have a medical evaluation checkup first to recognize any other possible causes of your child’s difficulties.
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