ADHD, which stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is indeed one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It typically begins in childhood and can continue into adulthood, although some individuals may not receive a diagnosis until later in life.

ADHD is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Its sister is ADD, which is attention deficit disorder, and that’s very similar but without the hyperactivity part. It can affect about 6 to 7 percent of children, three times more common in boys.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that commonly manifests in childhood and can persist into adulthood. The primary symptoms include difficulties with sustained attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. The symptoms need to be pervasive and interfere with an individual's daily functioning, such as in their school or home life, and be considered inappropriate for their age group.

Diagnosing ADHD typically involves a comprehensive evaluation conducted by trained professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists. They gather information from multiple sources, including parents, teachers, and the individual themselves, to assess the presence of symptoms across different settings. The use of standardized assessment tools and interviews helps ensure an accurate diagnosis.

It is important to note that only a qualified healthcare professional can provide an official diagnosis of ADHD or any other medical condition. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have ADHD, it is recommended to seek professional evaluation and guidance for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

untreated attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can lead to various challenges and consequences. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. If left untreated, ADHD can indeed have significant impacts on individuals, particularly in academic, social, and emotional domains.

Here are some potential consequences of untreated ADHD:

1. Academic difficulties: Children with untreated ADHD often struggle with focusing, organizing tasks, and completing assignments. This can result in lower academic performance, difficulty retaining information, and falling behind their peers.

2. Social and emotional challenges: Individuals with ADHD may experience difficulties in social interactions and relationships due to impulsivity, restlessness, or difficulty following conversations. They may have trouble regulating their emotions, leading to higher levels of frustration, irritability, and impulsive outbursts. These challenges can result in lower self-esteem, feelings of rejection, and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships.

3. Risky behaviors and substance abuse: Untreated ADHD in adolescents and adults has been associated with a higher risk of engaging in risky behaviors. Impulsivity and sensation-seeking tendencies may lead individuals to experiment with drugs, alcohol, or engage in reckless activities to seek stimulation and cope with their symptoms.

4. Accidents and injuries: ADHD can contribute to increased risk of accidents and injuries. Individuals with untreated ADHD may struggle with impulse control, attention, and coordination, making them more prone to accidents while driving, cycling, or participating in sports activities.

It's important to note that ADHD is a treatable condition. With proper diagnosis and comprehensive treatment approaches, including behavioral interventions and, if necessary, medication, individuals with ADHD can manage their symptoms effectively and reduce the negative consequences associated with the disorder. If you or someone you know suspects they may have ADHD, it is recommended to seek professional help from a qualified healthcare provider or mental health specialist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

In older children, things like holding down a part-time job, or even more likely, to get teenage pregnancies can occur so we do want to treat ADHD when we do see it and the treatment should be done by a trained professional.

So, about 30 percent of young people will have ADHD carry through to adulthood and in that situation again, we see things like job loss, divorce, accidents more common if we don’t treat. Often seeing your local Family physician for a referral to a mental health specialist is a good place to start. 

Now, treatment doesn’t necessarily mean medications, although that’s one big part of treatment. Treatment can also be behavioural management, modifying your environment.

For example, your workstation being free of distractions, having just one piece of paper that you’re working on, having your cellphones and TV off, that can be really helpful.

Also, people with ADHD can have anxiety or other mental health problems, maybe even substance use, drug and alcohol, so you really want to watch for anything else that could be developing and manage those early.

It’s always important to treat ADHD as soon and early as possible but children, teenagers, adults, older adults all benefit from treatment at any age.

If you have questions or concerns about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or attention deficit disorder, talk to your family doctor. Local Psychiatrist