Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children and Adolescents

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition characterized by attention deficits and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that negatively impacts activities related to society, school, or work, not appropriate for the developmental level of the individual. Studies conducted in children have found the prevalence of ADHD to be approximately 5%. It is more commonly seen in boys than in girls. While attention problems are more prevalent in girls, boys are more likely to present clinically due to behavioral issues.

The cause of ADHD is complex and is known to arise from the interaction of many genetic and environmental factors. Individuals with ADHD may experience attention-related issues such as difficulty concentrating, inability to study, academic failures, forgetfulness, inattentiveness, and difficulties with organization. Hyperactivity is described as being in a constant state of motion or experiencing inner restlessness during situations that require sitting still, more commonly observed in adolescents. Symptoms frequently seen in children with ADHD include being more active than their peers, experiencing problems due to excessive movement, and talking excessively. Impulsivity is defined as acting without thinking. Impulsive children may exhibit signs such as an inability to delay their wishes, trouble waiting in line, hastiness, acting and speaking without thinking, and interrupting others.

ADHD is diagnosed clinically after a psychiatric evaluation conducted during meetings with the child and their family. The assessment includes obtaining the child’s developmental and medical history, gathering information from teachers, evaluating accompanying disorders, and conducting necessary tests. ADHD is classified into three groups based on clinical presentation: Combined presentation (characterized by both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity), Predominantly inattentive presentation, and Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation.

The treatment plan for ADHD must be individualized for each child. There are non-medication and medication treatment options available. The most commonly used medications for treatment are stimulants, although there are also non-stimulant medication options. In non-medication treatment, educational programs for the patient and family, as well as behavioral therapies, are available.