What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder effects around 7.8% school aged children in the USA, and according to the Mental health America around 4.4% of adults. It is the most common behavioural disorder in the UK and is estimated that around 2.5% of school aged children and young people are effected by it. It has a range of negative effects which include an inability to focus, have a short attention span and a low tolerance for frustration. It can occur in people of any intellectual ability, however it is more common in people with other learning difficulties. Other issues are also associated with the condition such as sleep deprivation and anxiety disorders. Symptoms tend to be first noticed at an early age, usually between the ages of 6 and 12. Symptoms usually improve with age however many adults who are diagnosed can continue to experience problems. Childhood ADHD is more commonly found in boys compared to girls, Girls who have the condition usually have more problems with attention rather than hyperactivity, this causes less noticeable symptoms. It is thought that it could be more common than estimated and could be under diagnosed in girls.
Reference
Accessed 28/10/15 http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/Pages/Introduction.aspx
What careers are suited to those with ADHD?
Some careers are able to take advantage of ADHD behaviour whereas others are no suited to those with this condition. One example of a career that would suit someone with this condition would be something in the performing arts industry. Performers of all kinds have non-traditional schedules, this is suited to people with ADHD who will often have a difficulty with the daily 9-5 routine, where they quickly lose interest and have trouble focusing. As well as this the creative aspect of performing is a natural release of frustration and hyperactivity that they may have to deal with as part of their condition. Performers often do not have to report to the same office everyday and perform repetitive tasks and therefore they are relieved of the type of boredom that they would endure in other careers.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder effects around 7.8% school aged children in the USA, and according to the Mental health America around 4.4% of adults. It is the most common behavioural disorder in the UK and is estimated that around 2.5% of school aged children and young people are effected by it. It has a range of negative effects which include an inability to focus, have a short attention span and a low tolerance for frustration. It can occur in people of any intellectual ability, however it is more common in people with other learning difficulties. Other issues are also associated with the condition such as sleep deprivation and anxiety disorders. Symptoms tend to be first noticed at an early age, usually between the ages of 6 and 12. Symptoms usually improve with age however many adults who are diagnosed can continue to experience problems. Childhood ADHD is more commonly found in boys compared to girls, Girls who have the condition usually have more problems with attention rather than hyperactivity, this causes less noticeable symptoms. It is thought that it could be more common than estimated and could be under diagnosed in girls.
Reference
Accessed 28/10/15 http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/Pages/Introduction.aspx
What careers are suited to those with ADHD?
Some careers are able to take advantage of ADHD behaviour whereas others are no suited to those with this condition. One example of a career that would suit someone with this condition would be something in the performing arts industry. Performers of all kinds have non-traditional schedules, this is suited to people with ADHD who will often have a difficulty with the daily 9-5 routine, where they quickly lose interest and have trouble focusing. As well as this the creative aspect of performing is a natural release of frustration and hyperactivity that they may have to deal with as part of their condition. Performers often do not have to report to the same office everyday and perform repetitive tasks and therefore they are relieved of the type of boredom that they would endure in other careers.
Reference
Accessed 28/10/15
Accessed 28/10/15
What help is available?
When growing up many children go through phrases where they are restless and inattentive, this doesn't necessarily mean that they have ADHD. However if your child's behaviour is very different to most children their age you should raise concerns with your child's teacher, SENCO or GP. There is no cure for ADHD but it can be managed with educational support, advice and perhaps medication if necessary. Medication is usually the first treatment offered to adults as well as psychological therapies.
What causes ADHD?
When growing up many children go through phrases where they are restless and inattentive, this doesn't necessarily mean that they have ADHD. However if your child's behaviour is very different to most children their age you should raise concerns with your child's teacher, SENCO or GP. There is no cure for ADHD but it can be managed with educational support, advice and perhaps medication if necessary. Medication is usually the first treatment offered to adults as well as psychological therapies.
What causes ADHD?
The exact cause of this condition is unknown, however it is known to run in families, as well as this research has shown possible differences un the brains of people with ADHD and those without. Other factors also include being born prematurely, having a low birthweight and smoking, alcohol and/or drug abuse during pregnancy.
Living with ADHD
Even though looking after a child with this condition can be challenging, it is important to remember that they cannot help 100% of their behaviour. Some issues that may come about during day to day life include...
- Getting your child to sleep at night.
- Getting ready for school on time.
- Listening to instructions.
- Social occasions.
- Shopping.
- Being organised.
Adults with this conditions may also have issues with drugs, crime and employment.
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