ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is better known as a condition experienced by children. However, ADHD can also occur in adolescents and adults.
If not recognized early, ADHD can affect various aspects of life, from the learning process, social relationships, to a person's emotional development.
Therefore, it is important to understand what ADHD is, recognize its symptoms, and know the right treatment so that the quality of life of sufferers of this condition remains optimal.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by behavioral patterns such as difficulty paying attention or concentrating, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. This condition can occur in both children and adults, with symptoms varying from person to person.
In children, ADHD often manifests in school performance and behavior, while in adults, the condition can impact work productivity and social relationships. In general, ADHD can affect a person's ability to regulate attention, emotions, and daily behavior.
Symptoms of ADHD that need to be recognized early in children and adults
Symptoms of ADHD in Children
Some symptoms of ADHD in children that you should be aware of include:
- Difficulty maintaining attention while studying or doing certain activities.
- Easily distracted by the surrounding environment.
- Frequent movement, restlessness, or difficulty sitting still for long periods.
- Acting impulsively, such as interrupting conversations or having difficulty waiting one's turn.
- Difficulty completing tasks or following instructions completely.
ADHD symptoms generally begin to appear in early childhood, from around 3 years of age through preschool. However, during this period, symptoms are often not obvious in some children, given the high physical activity requirements at this age. Signs usually begin to appear when children enter the school environment, where they tend to be unable to sit for long periods, frequently leave their seats, and wander aimlessly, disrupting the learning process. Symptoms can also become more apparent around 7 to 8 years of age, when children begin to show differences compared to their peers. These differences include difficulty delaying gratification, a relatively low level of awareness, and a beginning impact on school performance.
ADHD Symptoms in Adults
In adults, ADHD often presents with more complex symptoms, such as:
- Difficulty managing time and completing tasks on time.
- Easily distracted when doing activities that require concentration.
- Often forget important things in everyday life.
- Impulsive tendencies in decision making.
- Difficulty managing work, social responsibilities, and relationships.
Factors that Cause ADHD in Children and Adults
The cause of ADHD is not yet known for certain, but the following factors are thought to play a role:
1. Genetic Factors or Family History
Genetic factors are one of the main causes of ADHD. Someone who has a family member with ADHD has a higher risk of experiencing the same problem.
2. Differences in Brain Structure and Function
ADHD is triggered by differences in certain parts of the sufferer's brain, particularly the suboptimal activity of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. This makes it difficult for people with ADHD to maintain focus, regulate behavior, and respond appropriately to stimuli.
3. Exposure to Certain Substances During Pregnancy
Prenatal factors, such as premature birth or low birth weight, also play a role in increasing the risk of ADHD. Exposure to toxic substances during pregnancy can affect fetal brain development, such as drinking alcohol, smoking, taking certain medications without medical supervision, and exposure to pollution or toxic substances.
4. Environmental Factors and Child Development
The environment in which a child grows up also influences their behavioral and emotional development. Some conditions that can influence this include:
- Inconsistent parenting patterns.
- High stress levels in the family.
- Lack of stimulation or structure in daily activities.
- Excessive screen time without supervision.
It is important to understand that environmental factors are not the primary cause of ADHD but rather play a role in worsening or causing the onset of symptoms in children with pre-existing biological impairments.
Types of ADHD Based on the Symptoms Experienced by Sufferers
ADHD is divided into several types based on the dominant symptoms, namely:
1. ADHD predominantly inattention
This type of ADHD is characterized by significant difficulty maintaining attention and focus. Sufferers are often unfocused or easily distracted, but do not always exhibit overt hyperactive behavior.
Some common symptoms include:
- Difficulty concentrating on tasks for long periods of time, especially those requiring attention to detail.
- Often make mistakes because of not paying attention, not because of inability.
- Easily distracted by small activities, such as sounds or activity around.
- Often forgets daily activities, such as schedules or homework at home.
- Difficulty organizing work and time management.
In children, this type is often mistaken for laziness or a lack of discipline. Meanwhile, in adults, the symptoms can affect work productivity and the ability to manage responsibilities.
2. ADHD is predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
This type of ADHD is characterized by overactive behavior and a tendency to act without thinking. Symptoms are often easier to recognize, especially in children.
Common symptoms include:
- Unable to sit still, often moving or fidgeting even in situations that require calm.
- Often talks excessively or interrupts other people's conversations.
- Difficulty waiting one's turn, either in games or in conversation.
- Acting impulsively without considering the consequences.
- Tendency to make quick and bad plans.
In adults, symptoms of hyperactivity may not be physically visible, but can manifest as restlessness, difficulty relaxing, or a compulsion to constantly do something. This type of impulsivity can also affect financial decisions, work, and interpersonal relationships.
3. Combined ADHD
This type of ADHD is the most common form of ADHD, where individuals show a combination of inattention-dominant and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD symptoms simultaneously.
Because it encompasses two groups of symptoms at once, the combination type often has a more complex impact on daily life, both in academic aspects, work, and social relationships.
Therefore, treating ADHD usually requires a more comprehensive approach, such as a combination of behavioral therapy, environmental support, and medical treatment (if necessary).
ADHD Treatments That Help Manage Symptoms and Improve Quality of Life
ADHD cannot be completely cured, but its symptoms can be well controlled through the following treatments:
- Behavioral therapy to help control emotions and actions.
- Psychological counseling or therapy to improve coping skills (self-defense against stress or pressure).
- Support from family and environment , including school and workplace.
- Use of medication as recommended by a doctor to help improve concentration.
- Create a daily routine and a conducive environment to be more structured.
Proper treatment can help people with ADHD live a more balanced and productive life.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
If ADHD symptoms appear at an early age, an evaluation or screening with a child clinical psychologist is recommended. This examination can provide a comprehensive profile of the child's development. This can then be followed by early interventions such as home stimulation, parenting modifications, and targeted and intensive therapy programs. These steps are both preventative and therapeutic measures to ensure optimal child development.
Consult a doctor immediately if ADHD symptoms begin to interfere with daily activities and persist for a significant period of time. For example, persistent difficulty concentrating affects school performance or work productivity, and impulsive or hyperactive behavior interferes with social relationships.
Furthermore, examination is also important if symptoms become more frequent, difficult to control, or cause emotional stress. Consulting a psychiatrist can help individuals receive a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, thereby maintaining their quality of life.
Article written by Cecilia HE, M.Psi, Psychologist (Child & Adolescent Psychologist at EMC Cikarang Hospital).