14 Signs of ADHD: Does Your Child Have ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental and neurodevelopment disorders affecting children. It is usually first diagnosed during childhood and often lasts up to adulthood. A child with ADHD has differences in brain development and brain activity that affect attention, the ability to sit still, and self-control. ADHD can affect a child at school, at home, and in friendships.

The causes and risk factors for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are unknown, but current research shows that genetics plays an important role. In addition to genetics, other possible causes and risk factors include the following:

• Brain injury
• Exposure to environmental toxins (e.g., lead) during pregnancy or at a young age
• Alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy
• Premature delivery
• Low birth weight

What works best can depend on the child and family. Good treatment plans will include close monitoring, follow-ups, and making changes, if needed, along the way.

In most cases, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is best treated with a combination of behavior therapy and medication. For children aged four to five years with ADHD, behavior therapy, particularly training for parents, is recommended as the first line of treatment before medication is tried. 

Medications can help children manage their ADHD symptoms in their everyday life and can help them control their behaviors that cause difficulties with family and friends, and at school. These medications are divided into two types:

• Stimulants: They are the best known and most widely used ADHD medications. Between 70% and 80% of children with ADHD have fewer ADHD symptoms when they take these fast-acting medications. Stimulants, which contain various forms of methylphenidate and amphetamine, have a calming effect on hyperactive children with ADHD. They are believed to increase brain levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with motivation, attention, and movement.
• Non stimulants: These were approved for the treatment of children with ADHD in 2003. They do not work as quickly as stimulants, but their effect can last up to 24 hours. Strattera (atomoxetine), Intuniv (guanfacine), and Kapvay (clonidine) are the non-stimulants that provide a useful alternative for children who do not tolerate stimulants well.