The National Survey of Children’s Health reported that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD afflicts 6.1 million children in America. This number does not account for teens and adults who also have the said disorder which can be classified into three types: the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation, the inattentive presentation, and the combined presentation. Regardless of the type, here are some important facts about ADHD that you need to know:
ADHD is not just hyperactivity
Some children with ADHD are only inattentive. Aside from having trouble in paying attention, they also have a hard time following directions or finishing tasks. They get easily distracted and are often disorganized. Processing information is also a challenge. Mental health practitioners unofficially refer to this as Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD.
Some children will NOT outgrow their ADHD
For some, ADHD sticks until adulthood. WebMD reported that 60% of children with ADHD also have it as adults. Not only does ADHD become a problem in school, it can also affect the afflicted in their interactions at home and work. In addition to symptoms that manifest during childhood, adults with ADHD are predisposed to substance abuse, tardiness, procrastination, and difficulty in controlling anger.
People with ADHD can become achievers
With adequate support, people with ADHD can harness the disorder to their advantage. According to the American Psychological Association, loved ones must consult mental health professionals to get a comprehensive review of their children’s ADHD that will be used to provide a proper treatment plan. One of the most celebrated achievers with ADHD is Michael Phelps who has 28 Olympic medals under his belt. Phelps had ADHD as a child and was treated with Ritalin. His mother, Debbie Phelps, made sure that his hyperactivity was channeled towards physical fitness. He tried many sports until he settled with swimming and eventually became the Olympian that we’ve known him to be.
Much like anyone with mental health issues, people with ADHD should not suffer from stigma. While it is the responsibility of their loved ones to seek the necessary treatment for their disorder, it is everyone’s responsibility to understand ADHD to provide a better environment where the afflicted can reach their full potential.