Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD]: The Problem and Solution

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD] is a brain-based disorder affecting people across age groups, genders and socio-economic backgrounds. As per the Harvard/NIMH survey, it affects about 11% of all children and 4.4% adults. Despite common belief, ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, familial issues, moral degradation, or even excess sugar; rather it is a brain-based disorder and may have a genetic component. The cause may not be definite, but ADHD can be diagnosed and effectively treated.

ADHD is often characterized by behavior patterns involving hyperactivity, impulsivity and inability to focus on tasks. People with ADHD report persistent troublesome behavior which makes it annoyingly difficult to focus on daily activities. These problems may persist till adulthood however, combined with hormonal changes of puberty and peer pressure, ADHD symptoms may worsen during teenage. In fact, research shows significantly increased instances of alcohol and drug abuse in teens with ADHD compared with their peers.

The problem with ADHD is a difficult diagnosis. There is no proven blood or lab test for diagnosing ADHD; neither does it show on radiographs or any other imaging study.  Most people who suspect this disorder visit a physician or a family doctor.

While it is a start but symptoms of ADHD may appear like extreme forms of normal behavior or overlap with other psychological disorders – often leading to wrong diagnosis and ineffective treatment. It is important to visit a qualified psychiatrist or a mental health practitioner for treatment involving a combination of medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and social skills training are all important constituents to help patients manage their lives.

ADHD is not just difficult for the person affected but also for everyone involved. Seeking appropriate and timely help is the key. Psychonline has qualified child and adolescent psychiatrists as part of the team that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders in children and adolescents and helps them and their families to face the challenge. This patient-friendly online platform connects health professionals and patients directly in a secure online video session, without a need to travel and meet face-to-face.

ADHD is a biological phenomenon that cannot be wished away. The first step is to realize your child or teen has ADHD and needs help, for more information on how to successfully manage this condition and live a fulfilling life, visit www.psychonline.com or email us at [email protected] or call us at +1 617 775 3429.