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What is ADHD?

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By Editorial Team

Last Updated:

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects how people act and pay attention. It is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions that affects children. It often starts in childhood and can continue into adulthood. If you care for a child with ADHD, there are many things you will want to know.1

How common is ADHD?

ADHD is quite common. Latest data show that about 7 million children ages 2 to 17 in the United States have an ADHD diagnosis. This means that many families deal with ADHD. It is important to remember that you are not alone.1,2

What are the types of ADHD?

There are 3 main ways ADHD can present in a person. They include:1,4

Inattentive type

Children with this type may have trouble focusing and paying attention. They might miss details, have difficulty organizing tasks, and seem like they are not listening. They may also lose things often.1,4

Hyperactive-impulsive type

Children with this type may be very active and have trouble sitting still. They might talk a lot, interrupt others, and act without thinking about the consequences.1,4

Combined type

This is the most common type. Children with combined presentation show symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.1,4

It is important to know which type of ADHD a child has because it can affect the kinds of challenges they face and the best ways to help them.1,4

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How is ADHD diagnosed?

There is no single test to diagnose ADHD. Doctors and other trained professionals diagnose ADHD by looking at a child's symptoms and history. They will talk to the child, parents, and teachers. They may also use questionnaires and checklists to gather information about the child's behavior in different settings, like at home and at school.1,3,4

To be diagnosed with ADHD, a child must have several symptoms that:1,3,4

  • Start before the age of 12
  • Happen in more than 1 setting (like home and school)
  • Get in the way of their daily life
  • Are not better explained by another condition

It can take some time to get an accurate diagnosis. For this reason, it is important to work with healthcare professionals who have experience diagnosing and treating children with ADHD.1,3

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

The symptoms of ADHD can vary from child to child. Some common symptoms related to inattention can include:1,3,4

  • Difficulty paying close attention to details or making careless mistakes
  • Trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities
  • Not seeming to listen when spoken to directly
  • Not following through on instructions and failing to finish schoolwork or chores
  • Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
  • Avoiding or disliking tasks that require sustained mental effort
  • Losing things necessary for tasks or activities
  • Being easily distracted by outside stimuli
  • Being forgetful in daily activities

Some common symptoms related to hyperactivity and impulsivity can include:1,3,4

  • Not being able to sit still, fidgeting, or tapping hands or feet
  • Leaving seat in situations when you are meant to stay seated
  • Running about or climbing in inappropriate situations
  • Being unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly
  • Being "on the go," acting as if "driven by a motor"
  • Talking excessively
  • Blurting out an answer before a question has been completed
  • Having difficulty waiting their turn
  • Interrupting or intruding on others

Not every child will have all of these symptoms. The number and severity of symptoms can differ.1,3

What are the treatment options for ADHD?

There are several ways to help children with ADHD. Often, a combination of treatments works best.1,4

Medicine

Stimulant and non-stimulant medicines can help improve focus and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. A doctor can help decide if medicine is right for a child and which type to use. Your child should take the medicine exactly as prescribed. Be sure to talk to their doctor about any side effects that may occur.1,4

Behavioral therapy

This type of therapy helps children learn strategies to manage their symptoms. It can teach them how to organize tasks, control impulsive behaviors, and improve social skills. Parent management training is also an important part of behavioral therapy. It helps caregivers learn how to best support their child.1,4

Educational support

Schools can make accommodations to help children with ADHD succeed. This might include things like extra time for tests, help with organization, or a quiet place to work. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan can outline these supports.1,4

Lifestyle changes

Healthy habits can also make a difference. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and getting regular exercise.4

This or That

When communicating with school, which do you prefer?

Being a caregiver to a child with ADHD

Caring for a child with ADHD can have its challenges, but it is also very rewarding. Here are some things to keep in mind:4

  • Be patient and understanding – Children with ADHD are not intentionally misbehaving. Their brains work differently.
  • Create structure and routine – Having a predictable schedule can help children with ADHD feel more secure and organized.
  • Give clear and simple instructions – Break down tasks into smaller steps.
  • Use positive reinforcement – Praise and reward good behavior.
  • Work closely with professionals – Stay in contact with doctors, therapists, and teachers. Prioritize a team approach for your child.
  • Take care of yourself – Caregivers need to have support and take breaks.

Learning about ADHD is the first step in helping a child thrive. With the right support and understanding, children with ADHD can reach their full potential.4