Understanding ADHD

What is ADHD?

All kids daydream and get in trouble once in a while. But life may be more difficult for a child with ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). It is a serious problem that can get in the way of having a normal life.

Just less than 10% of kids ages 4-17 in the United States have ADHD. Adults can also be diagnosed with ADHD. But with a little work and a treatment plan, ADHD can be controlled.

What are the signs of ADHD?

Kids with ADHD often have trouble with the following behavior:

• Sitting still
• Paying attention
• Following instructions
• Finishing tasks
• Acting without thinking 

What causes ADHD?

Doctors are not sure what causes ADHD, but your child may be at higher risk if:

• ADHD runs in your family
• You smoked during your pregnancy
• He/she had a low birth weight or was born early (premature)
• He/she had colic (uncontrollable crying) as a baby.

Boys are more than twice as likely than girls to be told they have ADHD.

What should I do if I think my child has ADHD?

• Make an appointment with your child’s doctor as soon as possible.
• If your child has ADHD, your doctor will make a treatment plan for them. This plan may include medicines and special ways to do things like homework or chores.
• You may have follow up doctor’s appointments to check and adjust your child’s ADHD plan.

To learn more about ADHD:

• Healthy Children.org: “ADHD Basics”
• National Institute of Mental Health: “ADHD Booklet”
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "ADHD Fact Sheet"
• National Resource Center for ADHD: "Parenting a Child with ADHD"