Attention-Deficit\/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder that begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. It affects how individuals focus, control impulses, and maintain attention. ADHD is more than occasional restlessness or forgetfulness; it significantly interferes with a person\u2019s daily functioning, academic achievement, occupational performance, and relationships. It is characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.<\/p>\n
CDC Definition of ADHD<\/a> ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) \u2013 an older term, now mostly used to refer to the inattentive subtype of ADHD.<\/p>\n ADHD differs from occasional distraction or high energy. It can be confused with:<\/p>\n Anxiety Disorders<\/strong><\/p>\n Autism Spectrum Disorders<\/strong><\/p>\n Learning Disabilities<\/strong><\/p>\n Bipolar Disorder<\/strong> All individuals may occasionally feel restless or distracted, but in ADHD:<\/p>\n Symptoms are frequent and severe.<\/p>\n They impair functioning in at least two settings (e.g., school and home).<\/p>\n They persist for 6 months or more.<\/p>\n Predominantly Inattentive Type<\/strong> (previously called ADD)<\/p>\n Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type<\/strong><\/p>\n Combined Type<\/strong><\/p>\n The exact cause is unknown but may involve:<\/p>\n Genetics<\/p>\n Brain structure and function differences<\/p>\n Prenatal exposure to alcohol or tobacco<\/p>\n Low birth weight or premature birth<\/p>\n Family history of ADHD<\/p>\n Maternal smoking, drinking, or drug use during pregnancy<\/p>\n Environmental toxins (e.g., lead exposure)<\/p>\n Children (especially boys)<\/p>\n Individuals with family members diagnosed with ADHD<\/p>\n Children born prematurely or exposed to toxins<\/p>\n Poor academic performance<\/p>\n Difficulty maintaining relationships<\/p>\n Low self-esteem<\/p>\n Increased risk for substance use<\/p>\n Risky behaviors or accidents<\/p>\n There is no guaranteed prevention, but prenatal care, avoiding toxins during pregnancy, and early diagnosis\/intervention can reduce symptom severity.<\/p>\n Symptoms often appear by age 12, sometimes as early as 3 years. They may evolve with age, often becoming less hyperactive but more inattentive in adults.<\/p>\n Inattention (e.g., forgetfulness, disorganization)<\/p>\n Hyperactivity (e.g., fidgeting, restlessness)<\/p>\n Impulsivity (e.g., interrupting, difficulty waiting)<\/p>\n Sleep disorders<\/p>\n Anxiety<\/p>\n Depression<\/p>\n Learning disabilities<\/p>\n Trauma<\/p>\n There\u2019s no single test. Diagnosis is based on:<\/p>\n Clinical interviews<\/p>\n Rating scales completed by parents, teachers<\/p>\n DSM-5 criteria<\/p>\n Rule-out of other conditions<\/p>\n CDC Diagnosis Guidelines<\/a><\/p>\n Medications<\/strong>:<\/p>\n Stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamine)<\/p>\n Non-stimulants (e.g., atomoxetine, guanfacine)<\/p>\n Behavioral Therapy<\/strong>:<\/p>\n Parent training<\/p>\n Classroom management<\/p>\n Cognitive-behavioral therapy<\/p>\n Lifestyle Adjustments<\/strong>:<\/p>\n Structure and routines<\/p>\n Exercise<\/p>\n Healthy diet and sleep habits<\/p>\n About 6 million children aged 3\u201317 in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ADHD (CDC).<\/p>\n Boys are more likely to be diagnosed than girls.<\/p>\n Diagnosis rates vary by race\/ethnicity, income, and region.<\/p>\n Omega-3 supplements<\/p>\n Mindfulness and yoga<\/p>\n Neurofeedback (experimental)<\/p>\n These should never replace conventional treatments but may support them.<\/p>\n Qelbree (viloxazine)<\/strong>: a non-stimulant for children and adolescents<\/p>\n Adhansia XR<\/strong>, Jornay PM<\/strong>: extended-release stimulants<\/p>\n FDA Drug Approvals<\/p>\n Medication can range from $30\u2013$300\/month<\/p>\n Therapy costs $100\u2013$200 per session<\/p>\n Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover diagnosis and treatment<\/p>\n With treatment, many individuals with ADHD lead successful, fulfilling lives. Symptoms may persist into adulthood but often become more manageable.<\/p>\n Academic failure<\/p>\n Substance use disorders<\/p>\n Legal and occupational difficulties<\/p>\n Mental health challenges (depression, anxiety)<\/p>\n ADHD is not fatal but increases the risk for unintentional injury or suicide if untreated.<\/p>\n Not typically applicable; however, supportive care is crucial for severe cases or comorbid conditions.<\/p>\n Creating routines<\/p>\n Using planners or apps<\/p>\n Seeking social and emotional support<\/p>\n Advocacy and education for caregivers and teachers<\/p>\n Digital therapeutics (e.g., FDA-approved video game EndeavorRx<\/em>)<\/p>\n Genetic testing for medication compatibility (emerging)<\/p>\n Sleep disorders<\/p>\n Learning disabilities<\/p>\n Oppositional defiant disorder<\/p>\n Substance abuse<\/p>\n Brain imaging and genetics<\/p>\n Environmental impact<\/p>\n Long-term effects of medications<\/p>\n NIH Clinical Trials on ADHD<\/p>\n CDC ADHD Overview<\/a><\/p>\n Mayo Clinic: ADHD<\/a><\/p>\n MedlinePlus ADHD Guide<\/p>\n Cleveland Clinic: ADHD<\/p>\n
\nMayo Clinic ADHD Overview<\/a><\/p>\nOther Name(s) for ADHD<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Difference Between ADHD and Similar Conditions<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\nHowever, ADHD presents consistently across different environments (home, school, work), while others may be context-specific.<\/p>\nDifference Between Normal and Abnormal States<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Types of ADHD<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Causes of ADHD<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Risk Factors<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Who Is Vulnerable\/Susceptible?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Complications<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Prevention<\/strong><\/h3>\n
How ADHD Develops<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Common Symptoms of ADHD<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What Other Problems Can Cause ADHD-like Symptoms?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Diagnosis and Tests<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Treatment and Therapies<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Statistics & Disparity<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Alternative\/Complementary Treatments<\/strong><\/h3>\n
New Medications for ADHD<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Cost of Treatment and Insurance<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Prognosis<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What Happens If No Treatment?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Survival Rate \/ Mortality Rate<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Palliative Care<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Living with ADHD<\/strong><\/h3>\n
New Treatment Approaches<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Related Issues<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Ongoing Research<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Clinical Trials & Participation<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Additional Information & Resources<\/strong><\/h3>\n