Embracing ADHD: Shining a Light on ADHD Awareness Month 2023

Dr Megha Desai Shah

Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Every year October is dedicated as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) awareness month globally. In this blog post, we'll explore what ADHD is, how it affects children and adolescents, and why raising awareness is crucial for a more inclusive and empathetic society. Around the globe, 5-7 % of school going children are diagnosed with ADHD. It is one of the most common paediatric neurodevelopmental disorders.

‘Inattentive’, ‘lazy’, ‘naughty’ are some of the labels used for kids who fail to behave appropriately as their peers. Is it normal? Or are we missing something? Should we ignore it by labelling it as naughty or by constant nagging that ‘you must do better’ ‘you should stop with this naughtiness’ ‘you are just lazy’. Shouldn't we as caretakers and care providers do a better justice to these little budding brains.

Let's take a moment to learn about ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD in children and teenagers are well defined, and they're usually noticeable before the age of 6. They occur in more than 1 situation, such as at home and at school. It is more often diagnosed in boys than girls. Girls are most likely to have inattentiveness and less disruptive behaviour that makes ADHD symptoms more obvious.

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Lets look at the common presentation of ADHD:

ADHD is characterised by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Inattentiveness (difficulty concentrating and focusing)

• having a short attention span and being easily distracted

• making careless mistakes – for example, in schoolwork

• appearing forgetful or losing things

• being unable to stick to tasks that are tedious or time-consuming

• being unable to stick to tasks that are tedious or time-consuming

• appearing to be unable to listen to or carry out instructions

• constantly changing activity or task

• having difficulty organising tasks

Hyperactivity and impulsiveness

• being unable to sit still, especially in calm or quiet surroundings

• constantly fidgeting

• being unable to concentrate on tasks

• excessive physical movement

• excessive talking

• being unable to wait their turn

• acting without thinking

• interrupting conversations

• little or no sense of danger

ADHD can also have positive aspects, such as: High energy, creativity, the ability to focus intently (hyperfocus) on things they are really interested in.

Why should we know all this?

Because there are many challenges faced by those who have ADHD.

• Academic Struggles: Difficulties in maintaining focus, organisation, and managing time can impact academic and professional success.

• Relationship Issues: Impulsivity and difficulty listening can strain peer relationships.

• Self-esteem and Mental Health: Constant feelings of being "different" or struggling to meet societal norms can lead to lower self-esteem and increased vulnerability to mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

ADHD often co-occurs with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, conduct disorder and learning disabilities. There are various tools available to aid the diagnosis of ADHD. Various treatment options are available including medications (often the first line of management), behavioural modifications, Occupational therapy, Parent training.

Raising Awareness: Why It Matters

Increasing awareness about ADHD helps dispel myths and misconceptions, reducing the stigma surrounding the condition.

• It can lead to earlier identification and intervention, providing individuals with the tools and resources they need to succeed.

• By understanding ADHD, parents, educators, and employers can create environments that are more conducive to the needs of individuals with ADHD.

• Awareness empowers individuals with ADHD to better understand themselves and their unique strengths and challenges.

Let's embrace ADHD, celebrate neurodiversity, and work towards a world where everyone can thrive, regardless of their cognitive differences.