Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
is defined as the combination of inattentive, hyperactive
and impulsive behavior which are severe, developmentally
inappropriate, and impair function at
home and in school.
Common features include mood
swings, anxiety, impulsivity, hostility, poor concentration
and sleeping disorders, along with physical complaints
such as headaches, migraines, and stomach
upsets.
ADHD individuals are also more likely to
have been of low birth weight and to have allergies
or auto-immune problems.
Proportionally more males
than females are affected, with inattention tending to
be a more female trait and hyperactivity more common
in males.
ADHD does persist into adulthood, although
symptoms tend to diminish with time, but the main
focus relates to the problems of children with ADHD.
Growing children are especially vulnerable to nutritional
and environmental factors that influence brain
development and function, which can have either a
negative or positive impact.
The symptoms of this
difficult condition can also significantly compromise
their education, making them challenging to teach
and consequently having a deleterious effect on their life-potential.
The daily challenges of living with
ADHD place a huge strain on families and reduces
overall quality of life for all involved.
