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ADHD • Information & Understanding

Understanding ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulsivity, organisation and often the daily functioning of a child, adolescent or adult.

What ADHD is

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a developmental disorder mainly of genetic and neurological origin. It appears during early childhood, persists over time and across different environmental conditions, and is not the result of severe sensory impairment, delayed language development, autism or childhood psychosis.

ADHD does not present in the same way in every child. In some cases, attention difficulties are more prominent; in others, hyperactivity or impulsivity is more evident, while many children present a combination of these characteristics.

Predominantly inattentive type

There is significant difficulty with attention without obvious hyperactivity.

Predominantly hyperactive type

There is significant hyperactivity without attention difficulties being the dominant feature.

Combined type

Hyperactivity, impulsivity and attention difficulties coexist.

Causes

Causes of ADHD

The theories regarding possible causes of ADHD include biological, environmental and genetic factors.

Biological factors

Lack of oxygen
Brain injury
Central nervous system infection
Epilepsy

Environmental factors

Dysfunctional family environment
Dysfunctional school environment

Genetic & neurological factors

Genetic factors appear to play a particularly important role. It has also been observed that in people with ADHD, certain parts of the brain may function less effectively, such as the frontal and parietal lobes.

Symptoms

Symptoms of ADHD

The symptoms of ADHD can be divided into primary and secondary symptoms.

Primary symptoms

Attention difficulties
Impulsive movements / Impulsivity
Hyperactivity

Secondary symptoms

Behavioural difficulties
School failure
Learning difficulties
Difficulties in social behaviour

When attention is needed

When a child may have ADHD

Certain signs in everyday life may raise concern and lead to further assessment.

When the child struggles to start studying and gives excuses

When the child frequently stops to do something else

When the child often interrupts studying to say something they just remembered

When studying lasts from midday until evening

When the child often makes careless mistakes

When the child keeps moving around while sitting to study

Coexisting difficulties

Conditions that may coexist with ADHD

In many cases, ADHD may coexist with other difficulties or disorders.

Conduct Disorder Mood Disorder Anxiety Oppositional Behaviour Learning Difficulties

Therapies & support

Managing ADHD

ADHD management cannot be one-dimensional. It requires a combined and personalised approach.

Combined approach

In some cases, medication may be combined with behavioural therapy and other forms of support, depending on the needs of the child and family.

Behavioural therapy

It helps individuals learn appropriate social behaviours, organise their daily routine more effectively and manage difficulties related to ADHD.

Psychotherapy

It can support the child or adolescent in understanding their difficulties, managing emotions and strengthening self-esteem.

Family counselling

Proper family guidance helps with better daily management, the creation of a stable framework and meaningful support for the child.

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