ADHD in Children: Types, Signs, Risk Factors and Treatment

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It's usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulses (acting without thinking about the result) or may be overly active.

Three presentations

Depending on which symptoms are strongest at diagnosis, ADHD presents as:

All children struggle to focus or behave at times. In children with ADHD, symptoms continue, can be severe, and cause problems at school, at home or with friends. Symptoms can change over time and may grow as daily demands increase.

Possible risk factors

The causes of ADHD are unknown, but scientists have identified possible risk factors:

• genetics, which plays an important role;
• exposure to environmental risks such as lead during pregnancy or early childhood;
• alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy;
• child health conditions, including head injuries;
• parental mental health.

Diagnosis

If you're concerned, start by talking with a health care provider. A mental health professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, or a primary care provider such as a pediatrician, can diagnose ADHD. There's no single test; diagnosis is a multistep process, because conditions such as anxiety, depression, sleep problems and some learning disabilities can look similar.

Treatment

• In most cases ADHD is best treated with behavior therapy and medication together.
• For preschoolers aged 4–5, behavior therapy — especially parent training — is recommended first, before trying medication.
• What works best depends on the child and family; good plans include close monitoring, follow-up and adjustments.

Healthy habits can make symptoms easier to manage:

• nutritious eating — plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and lean proteins;
• daily physical activity suited to age;
• limited screen time;
• enough sleep for age.

Help and information

CDC collects and analyzes nationally representative data on ADHD diagnosis, treatment and co-occurring conditions in children and adults, and shares information with states. It funds the National Resource Center on ADHD, run by CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), which offers resources, training and a helpline at 1-866-200-8098.

Sources

Based on "ADHD in Children," Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; a work of the United States government in the public domain.