BY DR DALE GARRED, MANLY VILLAGE MEDICAL
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD previously called ADD) is a neurodevelopmental condition. ADHD is NOT the same as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), but the two conditions can coexist.
The brain of a patient with ADHD is wired just a little differently resulting in these patients having trouble with executive functioning.
Executive functioning is a set of cognitive processes and mental skills that help individuals to plan, monitor and successfully execute their goals.
It includes skills like:
- Self-control (regulation)
- Flexible thinking
- Inhibition
- Problem solving
- Working memory
Trouble with executive function makes it hard to focus, follow directions and handle emotions. As such, patients with ADHD have symptoms that can be grouped into two core categories. Children with ADHD may display symptoms from one OR both categories.
- Hyperactivity/impulsivity – e.g. fidgeting, difficulty remaining seated, restless, difficulty playing quietly, excessive talking, difficulty taking turns, interrupting.
- Inattention – It can be difficult to distinguish between ADHD symptoms and normal “kid behavior”. Certainly, my four children would display all of these symptoms at various times. I would consider ADHD as a possible cause for these traits IF:
- The symptoms appear ALL the time (rather than just in some situations)
- The patient displays MOST of the symptoms (rather than just SOME of the symptoms)
- The symptoms EFFECT FUNCTION on a DAILY basis (e.g. performance in school or harmony in the home)
It is very difficult to diagnose ADHD before the age of four, but If you are worried that your child might have signs of ADHD, you should see your GP. If your GP also suspects ADHD they may refer you for a formal assessment and diagnosis by a specialised paediatrician or paediatric psychiatrist.
