FACT FILE: ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavioural disorder that affects children and adults.  In the UK between 2-5% of school age children have the condition.

Years ago it was thought that those who were showing the signs of ADHD were just unruly or lazy. Sometimes it was even put down to bad parenting.  Today it is a widely recognised condition and now the person is given better help and treatment.

There are 3 types of ADHD

·         Mainly inattentive

·         Mainly Hyperactive

·         Combined

Like any condition or illness there are many symptoms which vary from person to person. Some might have all the symptoms, others not as many. Here are some of the signs of ADHD in children.

·         Short attention span

·         easily distracted

·         excessive talking

·         cannot concentrate

·         acts without thinking

·         cannot sit still

·         interrupts conversations

In adults the symptoms are similar however they can be more noticeable.  They include

·         poor organisational skills

·         forgetfulness

·         edginess

·         blurt out responses

·         mood swings

·         quick temper

·         impatient

·         careless

·         misplace thins

·         inability to deal with stress

It is said that other conditions can run alongside ADHD.  Conditions such as

·         Bipolar

·         OCD

·         Anxiety

·         Depression

·         sleep problems

·         tourettes

·         learning disabilities

If you think yourself or your child have other health conditions please see your doctor for diagnosis.