Emmanuel Boamah

Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder

What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common childhood psychiatric
disorder and probably one of the most common undiagnosed psychiatric disorders in adults.
ADHD always begins in childhood and may be followed by a lifelong expression of symptoms3.
These symptoms can cause problems at home, school, work, or in relationships.

Causes of Attention Deficit Hyper Activity

Disorder
Researchers have found an association between
mothers who smoked tobacco products or used
alcohol during their pregnancy and the
development of behavior and learning problems
in their children4. However this data does not
hold very much strength at the moment. There
is no clear cut answer to the cause of
dysfunction of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Photo Courtesy of Brookhaven National Laboratory
However, recent studies have shown that
children with ADHD have less control in the
areas of the brain such as the frontal lobe, basal ganglia, caudate nucleus, cerebellum, as well
as other areas of the brain. Children with ADHD also will typically have a thinner frontal cortex
that will mature slower than children without ADHD1

Symptoms of ADHD: How do I know if I have it?

Although some seem to enjoy self-diagnosing every health
issue they encounter, it is always wise to consult a doctor if
you have any questions about ADHD or to receive a medical
diagnosis. Children with ADHD may experience behavioral
problems such as aggression, hyperactivity, and limited
attention. Its also very common to see cognitive, mood, and
psychological issues such anxiety, mood swings, constant
excitement, and learning disabilities2. It is very reasonable
for a child to have a few symptoms of ADHD, but not actually have the disorder. To establish a
diagnosis of ADHD, the symptoms should be inappropriate for the child's age and have a
negative impact on the child's ability to function. This can be difficult at times due to that natural

hyperactivity of children in their early years. Speaking with your physician will give you the clear
answer you are looking for.

Treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

There are various ways of treating ADHD. Licensed medical
professionals can prescribe drugs that is typically taken orally
to minimize the effects of one with this disorder. However,
there are also non-traditional routes to go about when trying
to treat ADHD. Behavioral therapy, anger management,
support groups or counseling can all treat certain cases of
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Being physically active is also beneficial to one with
ADHD. Physical activity immediately boosts the brains dopamine, norepinephrine, and
serotonin levels, which will promote mental sharpness. Sleep is also essential for those with
ADHD, because the symptoms become more aggressive with the lack of recommended hours.
Setting a quality sleep schedule and following it alone alone can minimize the problems in
attention and mood.

References
1. Krucik, George, Dr. "ADHD and the Brain: Structure and Function." Healthline. Tricia Kinman,
17 Dec. 2012. Web. 09 June 2015.
2. Bhargava, Hansa D., Dr. "ADD and ADHD in Children Slideshow." WebMD. WebMD, 23 Apr.
2015. Web. 09 June 2015.
3. Schweitzer, Julie B., Dr., Thomas K. Cummins, Dr., and Carole A. Kant, Dr. "ATTENTIONDEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER." ATTENTION-DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER. Science
Direct, 27 June 2005. Web. 09 June 2015.
4. "Causes of ADHD." Causes of ADHD. MyADHD, n.d. Web. 09 June 2015.