What Causes ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also referred to as ADHD is a neurological disorder. Though ADHD is a common childhood disorder, if left untreated, the symptoms might persist even through adolescence and adulthood. The children suffering from this disorder find it hard to focus on any activity for a long time. They come across as inattentive, fidgety, hyperactive and seem to be oblivious of what's going on around them. Since most children are full of energy, parents are often unable to identify that their child has this neurological disorder. The behavior of children affected by this condition is often looked upon as unruly. Let's find out what causes ADHD along with ways to tackle this behavioral problem.

Symptoms of ADHD

The common symptoms of this neurological condition include inattentiveness, emotional instability, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. A child suffering from this disorder get easily distracted and finds it hard to focus. Fidgeting, frequently switching from one activity to another, missing out details, difficulty in following instructions or processing information accurately and inability to sit still are other symptoms of ADHD. The child might also act without thinking and blurt out something for which, he/she might feel sorry later on. Such children bother their classmates and often indulge in fights. Outbursts of anger and inability to take criticism are also traits of a child suffering from this disorder.

Causes of ADHD

Understanding what goes wrong and why is it important for tackling this neurological disorder. It is the anatomical abnormality in the structure of the brain or malfunctioning in the nerve pathways that causes this disorder. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter plays a vital role in regulating the aspects such as attentiveness and concentration. A malfunction associated with such neurotransmitters adversely affects the aspects such as attentiveness, mood, sleeping habits, and ability to learn.

Sometimes a traumatic brain injury could also be a contributory factor. A family history of ADHD will also increase the chances of children suffering from this disorder. If any of the parents are suffering from psychological disorders, their offspring might be more vulnerable. Women who are stressed or indulge in excessive smoking or drinking during pregnancy might also give birth to children that are prone to developing this condition. Exposure to environmental toxins such as lead or polychlorinated biphenyl can also cause ADHD. Though the behavior of children affected by this condition cannot be attributed to bad parenting, the inability of the parents to provide a harmonious environment at home can also affect the severity of symptoms exhibited by a child suffering from ADHD. Research is going on to confirm the association between consumption of food additives and increased hyperactivity.

Treatment Options for ADHD

Since a child spends most of his/her time at school and home, it is the responsibility of the parents and teachers to understand the needs of a child suffering from this disorder. If any such symptoms are exhibited by a child, you must consult a doctor. It is pointless to reprimand and punish your child without understanding why he/she is behaving strangely. Drug therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of these might be required to treat this disorder.

The parents and teachers must also use behavior modification techniques for ADHD. These techniques along with cognitive behavioral therapy will help in channelizing thoughts of such children and helping them cope better. If your child does not finish the work you asked him/her to do, don't yell at him/her. Encourage such children by rewarding them when they finish the task assigned to them. Stay composed while correcting them. Teachers should also try to arouse their interest in studies and other activities and encourage them to finish their work. If they don't follow your instructions, be patient and tell them again. This might be a test of your patience but let me tell you that persistence pays. Regular psychotherapy sessions and consistent efforts by the family members will surely be helpful in alleviating the symptoms. Following the dietary guidelines given by medical experts might also prove beneficial.

If left untreated, this disorder can continue through adolescence and adulthood. If your child seems to be exhibiting any of the aforementioned symptoms of this behavioral disorder, consult a doctor soon.