Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral disorder that is characterized by a chronic pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity or a combination of the three that affect how a person functions in their day-to-day life. ADHD is very common among children, and three times more prevalent among boys than girls. 

Once referred to as attention deficit disorder, or ADD, the disorder was renamed in 1994 to ADHD where it was broken down into three sub-types. The three types of ADHD are predominantly inattentive type, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type, and the combined type.

The predominantly inattentive type is when an individual finds it difficult to pay attention to details and difficulty following instructions or conversations. The person is easily distracted, makes careless errors, has problems with organization, forgets details of daily routines, and has a tendency to lose things. 

The predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type is a type of person that finds it difficult to sit still for long, is constantly talking, and always seems to be moving. They may also have problems waiting and often interrupts other people. 

The combined type has symptoms of two types and is the most common among children.

The causes of ADHD are unknown, but it is linked to genetics and environmental factors. It has also been studied that children with ADHD may have a family member who also has the disorder.  ADHD can be treated but can be difficult to diagnose since many of the symptoms resemble normal behaviors expressed during childhood. 

The treatment of ADHD is done through medicine, behavioral therapies, or both. Medications include stimulants or antidepressants. Since medications affect everyone differently, a series of different medications may need to be taken before ADHD is well-controlled. Using behavioral therapy, a professional attempts to change an individual’s behavior including establishing a new organization in one’s home and school environment, repeating directions, and establishing a rewards system for proper and inappropriate behavior. 

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