ADHD is a brain disorder that causes problems with attention, impulsivity and organizational skills. It affects children, teens and adults in different ways but most commonly involves the frontal lobe.
It is not caused by sugar, lack of discipline, or television. It is caused by a chemical difference in the way the brain works and how it responds to stimuli.
The chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine change the way the brain processes information, and this can make people with ADHD act impulsively or lose focus. This can cause people to not pay attention, to miss information, to get in trouble with others and to have a hard time organizing their work.
This can affect schoolwork and homework, and even relationships at home or at school. It can also lead to frustration, low self-esteem and oppositional behavior. It can also affect the ability to learn and take tests.
There are many things that can cause these symptoms, but most of them have to do with a chemical imbalance in the brain. This can be caused by genetics, or by environmental factors such as toxins in the air during pregnancy.
If there is a genetic or family history of ADHD, the risk of developing the disorder increases. Research shows that ninety percent of individuals with ADHD have a parent or sibling with the disorder.
They can be diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder when their symptoms are severe enough to interfere with their daily life. They often have to use medication to control their symptoms or are trained by a health care professional to manage their behaviors.
Treatment for ADHD can include a combination of medications, psychotherapy, and other approaches to help with attention, impulsivity, and organization. These treatments can improve a child’s quality of life and their performance in school and work.
Medication can help with symptoms of ADHD by improving the brain’s ability to focus and organize. They can also reduce impulsivity and improve the way a person responds to stimuli.
The best way to find the right medicine is to talk with your doctor and discuss all of the options. They can help you decide which medication is right for your child and your family.
A health care professional can also provide a list of resources for your family to use at home and in the community. These resources can include parenting programs, support groups, and social services.
Parents can also teach their children to understand and manage their symptoms. They can teach their children to set boundaries and avoid situations that may make them act out or lose focus. They can also talk to their child about how to deal with stress and anger.
Other ways to treat ADHD can include behavioral therapy or training, parent coaching, and school support. These treatments can improve a child’s focus, control their behaviors and help them enjoy school more.
The right medication can make a huge difference in the lives of kids with ADHD and their families. Medication can also improve a child’s learning ability and increase their confidence in themselves.