Psychologist Stefania Romanini said ADHD is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder that can have a profound impact at school and in the workplace, as well as an impact on relationships.
“As a consequence, the quality of life of individuals with ADHD, and that of the people around them, are all affected,” she said.
ADHD is generally considered to have three component features; inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, and the contribution of each to an individual’s presentation of ADHD varies from person to person and across the lifespan.
“ADHD is the official medical term for the condition, regardless of whether a person demonstrates symptoms of hyperactivity. In ADD, the symptom of hyperactivity is absent. “
To receive an ADHD diagnosis, children or adults must demonstrate six of the nine symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity in at least two settings over six months or more.
In addition, the following conditions must be met:
- Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms were present before age 12 years.
- Several symptoms are present in two or more settings, (such as at home, school or work; with friends or relatives; in other activities).
- There is clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with, or reduce the quality of, social, school, or work functioning.
- The symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder.
- The symptoms do not happen only during the course of schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder.
“Usually a combination of medication and therapy heeds the most effective results, but it is important to work closely with health care providers and other professionals so treatment can be tailored to the unique needs of each individual and family to help the child control symptoms, cope with the disorder, improve overall psychological well-being and manage social relationships,” said Romanini.
Adult ADHD includes:
