Subtitle: What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is most commonly diagnosed in children, but can also be diagnosed in adults. People with ADHD have difficulty paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, and/or being overly active. ADHD is not caused by a lack of discipline or parenting, but rather is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Subtitle: Is ADHD Inherited?
Research suggests that ADHD is at least partially inherited. Studies have shown that ADHD is more likely to occur in some families than in others. Additionally, identical twins are more likely to both have ADHD than fraternal twins. However, research is still ongoing and it is not yet known which genes may be involved in the development of ADHD.
Subtitle: Diagnosing ADHD
ADHD is diagnosed based on a set of criteria, which can be found in the DSM-5, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. To be diagnosed with ADHD, an individual must show signs of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. These symptoms must be present in two or more settings (e.g., home, school, work) and must be significantly impairing the individual's functioning.
Subtitle: Treatment for ADHD
Treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of medication and therapy. Medication can help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD, while therapy can help to teach individuals how to better manage their symptoms. Additionally, there are a number of lifestyle changes that can be made to help manage the symptoms of ADHD, such as ensuring that the individual gets enough sleep and eats a healthy diet.