Popular culture often depicts children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as wild and bouncing off the walls. While some symptoms of ADHD can look like hyperactivity and impulsiveness, there is certainly more to the story than just that.
So what is ADHD exactly? ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood and is usually first diagnosed in childhood but often lasts into adulthood. And although it is referred to as a childhood disorder, there are several instances where adults receive a diagnosis for the first time.
“The most important thing is that there is a spectrum of symptoms when it comes to ADHD,” Dr. Steph Lee, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), previously told Mom.com. So with that in mind, let's look into what getting an ADHD diagnosis means, what different signs of ADHD in adults can be, and what treatment options are available.
How to get diagnosed with ADHD
ADHD treatment
Depending on what age diagnosis occurs, ADHD treatment might be different. The two primary treatments are behavioral and/ or medication.
Behavioral
Behavior treatment is more likely to be used if a child is diagnosed with ADHD. The aim of this treatment in kids is to adjust behavior and better kids' self-control and self-esteem. The type of behavior management and/or behavior intervention recommended will be tailored to your child's specific needs and their age.
Medication
Sometimes a combination of behavioral-based treatment and medication might be the best solution. There are two main categories of ADHD medication: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants can enhance and balance out chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Non-stimulants — such as atomoxetine and some antidepressants like bupropion — may be prescribed if the patient has health issues or are prone to the side effects of stimulants.
Keep in mind that depending on the child, any medication may have side effects such as sleep problems or a decrease in appetite.
