Common signs of ADHD in children and its Management

ADHD, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a complex developmental brain disorder. It mainly affects the frontal area of the brain and involves one of the most important neurotransmitters, dopamine. It occurs due to a variety of factors such as influenza infection in the mother during pregnancy, a family history of ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, birth trauma, etc.

To understand the symptoms of ADHD, we can divide them into two parts (as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition):

Inattention:

The child often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or during other activities.
The child has difficulty remaining focused during lectures, conversations, or lengthy reading.
He/she often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
The child starts tasks but quickly loses focus and is easily sidetracked.
He/she often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort and often loses things necessary for tasks or activities.
The child is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli and often forgetful in daily activities.

Hyperactivity and impulsivity:

The child often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in the seat and often leaves the seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
He/she often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate and often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
The child is often “on the go,” acting as if “driven by a motor,” and often talks excessively.
The child often has difficulty waiting his or her turn while playing games with other children and while waiting for the turn.
The child often interrupts or intrudes on others like butts into conversations, games, or activities; may start using other people’s things without asking or receiving permission.
Adults can also experience symptoms of ADHD, as around 50% of patients continue to experience symptoms in adolescence and adulthood.

Management of ADHD:

If parents feel that their children experience these symptoms leading to disruption in many domains of the child’s life, such as academic performance, peer relationships, relationships with parents and siblings, one needs to consult a psychiatrist specialized in childhood mental disorders and ADHD.
This disorder can be managed by both medicines—mostly managing moderate to severe ADHD—and therapy for mild cases.

About the Author:

Dr. Sangeeta Hatila, MD, is a distinguished Consultant Neuro-Psychiatrist, former Assistant Professor, and De-addiction Specialist. With a seamless blend of academic brilliance and practical experience, her journey is marked by impactful research, insightful presentations, and active engagement in mental health initiatives.

In her role as a seasoned Consultant Psychiatrist in Gurugram, Delhi-NCR, Dr. Hatila brings extensive experience to the realm of mental health. From exploring the co-occurrence of autistic spectrum disorder and childhood onset schizophrenia to investigating factors influencing medication adherence among schizophrenia patients, her contributions are pioneering.

Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Hatila is a dedicated member of the Indian Psychiatric Society, actively involved in mental health advocacy. She organizes awareness rallies, contributes columns on diverse mental health topics to Rajasthan Patrika, and plays a pivotal role in community mental health initiatives. Dr. Sangeeta Hatila is associated with Sukoon Health as a Partner doctor.