6.1 million children in the United States, between the ages of 2 and 17, have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, according to a 2016 study, conducted by Central for Disease Control and Prevention (1); the majority of these children, about 3.3 million, were found to be between the ages of 12 and 17.
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders found in children, causing a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Many children who suffer from ADHD couple it with other disorders, such as: depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder and Tourette Syndrome. The CDC explains in their article, “Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD),” that about 64% of children diagnosed with ADHD also possess a mental, emotional or behavioral disorder.
There is not one single test to diagnose ADHD; however, if a parent feels that their child is showing symptoms of this disorder, it is crucial that they talk with a healthcare provider, in particular a psychologist, psychiatrist, or pediatrician. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that healthcare providers speak to adults both outside and within the home to check on their child’s behavior in different settings. It is also suggested that parents ask their health care provider to determine whether their child has another condition that may further explain any symptoms the child is expressing.
When looking for symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, there are two main indicators that commonly are integrated with the disorder (2).
- Inattention
- Make careless mistakes
- Have trouble holding their attention on activities
- Do not listen well when spoken to directly
- It becomes very difficult for those with ADHD to remain organized, follow through with instructions and finish tasks.
- Hyperactivity and impulsivity
- Interruption of conversations
- Excessive talking
- Immoderate movement
- Children with ADHD have a very hard time remaining still and composed and are reported to be unable to be aware of both their vocal and physical expressions
For more information on symptoms, please visit the National Health Service’s website.
Thankfully, about 3 in 4 children with ADHD receive treatment for their disorder. These treatments include:
- medication
- behavioral therapy
- combination of the two
In a 2018 study done by Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, it was reported that about 77% of children with ADHD were being treated, 30% with medication alone, 15% with behavioral therapy alone and 23% with a combination of the two (3). A more in depth survey from 2014, conducted on 4 to 17 year olds, found that 9 out of 10 children received in classroom support and school accommodations (4). A multitude of options are available for those suffering with ADHD.
For more information on recommendations and treatment options for parents, please visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website.
ADHD is a common disorder that can cause extreme difficulties in childhood development and education. It is crucial to recognize symptoms, contact a healthcare provider and find the best treatment options for children suffering from this disorder. Luckily, this affliction is treatable, allowing those affected to better their physical and mental well-being.
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, January 26). What is ADHD? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html.
- NHS. (2018, May 30). Symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). NHS Choices. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/symptoms/.
- Danielson ML, Bitsko RH, Ghandour RM, Holbrook JR, Kogan MD, Blumberg SJ. Prevalence of parent-reported ADHD diagnosis and associated treatment among U.S. children and adolescents, 2016. Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology. 2018, 47:2, 199-212.
- Danielson ML, Visser SN, Chronis-Tuscano A, DuPaul GJ. A national description of treatment among U.S. children and adolescents with ADHD. Journal of Pediatrics. 2018, 192, 240–246.e1.