These days, it’s very common to hear about a hyperactive child or a child with ADHD. Often, when a child is a little more energetic, it’s common to say “what a hyperactive child!” and usually parents look for help to address their child’s anxiety and hyperactivity. But is a child being more energetic always related to a condition like ADHD? Do you actually know the signs of a child with ADHD? Let’s find out throughout the article!
What is ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder – ADHD is a condition characterized by inattention, disorganization, and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. According to the diagnostic criteria for this condition, ADHD can be of three types: inattentive type, hyperactive/impulsive type, and combined type. ADHD is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means it develops early in childhood and may impair development in all areas of future life, such as personal, social, academic, and/or professional. Other well-known neurodevelopmental disorders are autism and learning disorders, for example. According to the Brazilian Attention Deficit Association, about 5% of school-aged children have ADHD and, in most cases, the symptoms persist into adulthood. Some studies show that patients with ADHD have certain brain structures that are smaller than those of patients without ADHD. These structures are responsible for regulating emotions, motivation, and our reward system (closely linked to our behaviors). 
What are the main symptoms?
It’s important to make clear that not every child with ADHD is hyperactive! Remember the three types we mentioned at the beginning of the article? That’s right, sometimes children can show only inattention. The main symptoms usually appear around age 7, that is, during childhood development. In general, children with ADHD have the following characteristics:
- Difficulty in sustaining focus on an activity for an extended period;
- Difficulty focusing on activities that must be performed following rules and deadlines.
- Difficulty starting and finishing tasks, drawing conclusions, reviewing situations, and checking over mistakes.
- They also tend to be more disorganized and forgetful.
As we can see, school is essential for properly diagnosing this condition, since it’s a place where many of the symptoms will be noticed. Therefore, it’s crucial that parents are always in contact with the school to monitor their children’s development. It’s also important to emphasize that not every child who’s a little more hyperactive necessarily has ADHD. Many times, a child is just being a child, and that’s why this is a diagnosis that should be made with great care, paying attention to all the symptoms the child may have. Seek out a trusted professional to get a proper diagnosis.
And how is it treated?
Treatment for ADHD may vary. It ranges from the use of behavioral therapy to the use of medication. Depending on the child’s situation, a combination of both may also be considered. For a diagnosis, ideally you should seek follow-up with a specialist who can assess the child’s condition and the most appropriate treatment. Usually, medications are recommended that will control the effects of the disorder, reducing symptoms such as impulsivity and inattention. Again, only a professional can make a referral for such medications. Also see: What is Craniosynostosis and What is the Treatment?
