What is ADHD?
Posted by Donna Rain-O'Dell on 5/19/2020 7:00:00 AM
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a medical term for the biologically-based neurological condition. There are three subtypes: Primarily Inattentive, Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive, or Combined. 11% of children and teens in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD (CDC)
- Inattentive ADHD includes symptoms such as difficulty paying attention, being easily distracted, disorganization, forgetfulness and not listening.
- Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD includes symptoms such as interrupting not waiting their turn, getting out of seat, fidgeting, restlessness and excessive talking
- Combined ADHD is diagnosed when a child has at least 6 symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive ADHD.
FACTS
Boys are more commonly diagnosed with ADHD than girls
ADHD is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder of childhood
Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHS is usually diagnosed earlier than Inattentive ADHD
There is no one test for ADHD; a diagnosis is made after observation and discussion with a physician
TREATMENT OPTIONS INCLUDE
- Behavioral Therapy: Counseling and parent training
- School Accommodations: 504 plans, IEP, Special Education and/or Tutoring
- Medication Options