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What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a common neurological disorder that develops at a young age and persists throughout life, with widespread effects on major areas of life – studies, interpersonal relationships, work and daily functioning. The disorder is characterized by persistent difficulties in three main areas: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. All of these affect a person’s functioning and coping in changing situations.
Definition of ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, meaning it begins early in life and results from abnormal or abnormal brain development. People with ADHD have difficulty concentrating for long periods of time, blocking out external noise, regulating their behavior, and coping with environmental disturbances.
The key characteristics of ADHD include:
Inattention : Tendency to pay attention to things only for short periods of time, difficulty following instructions, forgetfulness, and losing important details.
Hyperactivity: Excessive alertness accompanied by incessant movements, for example, difficulty staying in one place or a constant desire for activity.
Impulsivity: Difficulty controlling impulses, lashing out at others, or making quick and ill-considered decisions.
ADHD is not the result of poor upbringing, lack of intelligence, or laziness. It is a medical condition in its own right, requiring tailored attention and individualized treatment.
The difference between ADHD in children and adults
ADHD in children:
Symptoms in children are especially prominent in school or social situations.
Children with ADHD tend to be physically restless, disruptive, have difficulty completing assignments or remembering instructions, often affecting their academic achievement and social integration.
Notable examples:
Leaving the chair during class for no reason.
Frequently losing school supplies such as notebooks and pencils.
Tendency to break into conversations with friends and teachers.
ADHD in adults:
In adults, ADHD manifests itself differently – less in hyperactivity but more in areas such as organizational difficulties, procrastination, difficulties completing work tasks, and time management.
Adults with ADHD have difficulty meeting long-term commitments, may have difficulty functioning in romantic relationships, or maintain employment stability.
Notable examples:
Missing meetings or being late due to planning difficulties.
Difficulty holding long conversations without interrupting others.
A feeling of "floating" and order in managing daily tasks.
The transition from childhood to adulthood:
Although it was once thought that ADHD would go away with age, it is now known that symptoms continue into adulthood, although they may change depending on the person's environment. Some adults have managed to develop coping mechanisms, and yet the impact of ADHD on their lives is noticeable.
What are the causes of ADHD?
ADHD is not caused by poor upbringing, lack of discipline, or psychological problems, but rather by a number of proven factors:
1. Neurological factors :
ADHD is associated with altered functioning of the human brain, particularly in areas responsible for attention, emotional regulation, and decision-making.
Studies indicate low activity of neurotransmitters (chemicals in the brain responsible for transmitting information between cells) such as dopamine and norepinephrine.
2. Genetic factors:
ADHD tends to run in families. In families where there is a first-degree relative with ADHD, the likelihood of the disorder also appearing in other relatives increases.
Twin studies indicate that ADHD is among the most genetically determined of neurological diseases.
3. Environmental factors:
Exposure to smoking, alcohol, or toxic substances during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing ADHD.
Premature birth or low birth weight are also associated with the onset of the disorder.
Environmental factors may worsen the symptoms of ADHD, such as lack of sleep, ongoing stress, or an unbalanced diet – although these are not a direct cause of the disorder.
Statistics on the prevalence of ADHD
ADHD is one of the most common neurological disorders.
In children : Approximately 8%-10% of the world's child population is diagnosed with ADHD. The disorder is more common in boys than girls, although in girls it is often less recognized due to less prominent behavioral patterns (such as inattention alone).
In adults : Approximately 4%-5% of the adult population is diagnosed with ADHD, but it is estimated that over 50% of cases are undiagnosed.
ADHD is a complex disorder that requires a thorough understanding to best treat. Understanding the characteristics of the disorder, the differences between children and adults, and its causes will enable people to cope with their own or their loved ones’ experience and make informed decisions about treatment and support. Your website is designed to be a trusted source of information for parents, adults, teachers, and employers – to reduce stigma and make information accessible to everyone.