ADHD is the abbreviation for attention deficit hyperactive disorder. It is a mental disorder that is usually first seen in childhood. As the name suggests, its main characteristics include inattentiveness, hyperactivity and a tendency to impulsivity. The condition is fairly common but tends to resolve spontaneously in a majority of the affected children. If they have been diagnosed with ADHD Dallas residents need to understand a number of things on the condition.

The cause remains obscure but there are a number of theories that have been develop to explain its origin. The first of the theories claims that the condition is caused by a shrinkage in brain size while a child is still developing in the womb. The proponents claim that such children have the symptoms due to a frontal lobe that is smaller than the average. The second theory claims that the symptoms are due to reduced levels of dopamine in the brain.

Hyperactivity causes people to speak quite a lot. In children, it will be manifested as the inability to sit or remain immobile for a few minutes. Impulsivity is mainly characterized by impatience. The affected person tends to interrupt activities and conversations every so often. Other features are having difficulties in containing anger, poor development of language and poor control of motor functions.

There various sub-types that exist. The sub-types are based on the type of symptoms that are seen in the client. The combined type is characterized by both hyperactivity and inattentiveness. The second type is known as the inattentive type because the predominant symptom is frequent lapses in concentration (formerly attention deficit disorder). The third type, hyperactive-impulsive type, has both impulsivity and hyperactivity but has no inattentiveness.

In the event that signs and symptoms of ADHD are noted, the child or adult should be taken to a GP or a psychiatrist. In the case of children, the diagnostic criteria states that they must be between the age of six and twelve years. They will be observed for a period of about six months to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.

For reasons that are not very clear, ADHD is more common in boys than girls. Approximately 30% of affected children may exhibit the symptoms in adulthood. The prevalence of the condition in adults within the general population is about 4%. When seen in adults, the symptoms vary slightly; hyperactivity and impulsiveness are replaced with a constant state of restlessness. The affected individual have a difficulty establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships.

Treatment is mainly through the administration of drugs or through psychotherapy. The common practice is to combine both options so as to increase the chances of succeeding. Stimulants are the main group of drugs. Although these drugs are highly effective, they have a potential for addiction and abuse. Additionally, they may cause psychosis if given to preschool children. Such children may benefit from behavioral therapy.

One can lead a normal life even with a diagnosis of ADHD. This is as long as the diagnosis has been made in time and the treatment process initiated. The most effective plan is that which combines different approaches such as psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Social support plays a vital role in rehabilitation of affected persons and should be available both at home and at school.