MEDICAL INSIGHTS
Understanding ADHD: What You Need to Know!
Ha Noi, Viet Nam
24 Oct, 2025
ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder marked by persistent symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.
Symptoms begin in childhood and can affect daily life, including social relationships and school or work performance. ADHD is well-known among children and teens, but many adults also have the disorder.
Symptoms in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Inattention
The individual tends to be easily distracted and struggles to concentrate on tasks for extended periods compared to peers. They often exhibit impatience, leaving tasks unfinished to move on to something else, and demonstrate a lack of meticulous focus, making them prone to careless mistakes. Additionally, they rarely follow rules and regulations, frequently leaving schoolwork incomplete. This behavior is accompanied by a tendency to lose personal items, such as belongings or toys, and a noticeable avoidance of activities that demand sustained mental effort.
Hyperactivity
The individual often exhibits restlessness, with difficulty staying seated and frequent movements of their hands and feet. They are regularly observed climbing, jumping, or leaving their seats in settings where sitting still is expected. They struggle to engage in quiet play or activities, speak excessively, and frequently answer questions before they are fully asked. Furthermore, they tend to interrupt or interfere in others’ conversations or activities.
These symptoms typically persist for more than six months, appear before the age of 12, and occur in various settings such as at home, school, and public places. This disorder disrupts the child’s learning, daily activities, work, and relationships.
Understanding ADHD in Children: Types, Causes, and Risk Factors
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children. It can significantly impact their academic, social, and emotional development. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of ADHD, its potential causes, and the risk factors that may contribute to this condition.
Types of ADHD in Children
ADHD in children is categorized into three main types:
• Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: This type is characterized by excessive activity, impulsive behaviors, and difficulty sitting still.
• Predominantly Inattentive Type: Children with this type often struggle with focus, attention, and completing tasks, but they may not exhibit hyperactive behavior.
• Combined Type: This is the most common type, involving symptoms of both hyperactivity-impulsivity and inattention.
Recent studies reveal that ADHD affects approximately 4-7% of children, with boys being three times more likely to be diagnosed than girls. Additionally, ADHD often coexists with other conditions, including Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorder, Tic Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and learning disabilities.
Causes of ADHD in Children
Understanding the causes of ADHD remains an area of active research. Although no specific cause has been identified, several biological and environmental factors are thought to play a role.
Biological Factors
• Genetics: ADHD often runs in families, suggesting a genetic link.
• Maternal Health: Illness during pregnancy may increase the risk of ADHD.
• Birth Complications: Brain injuries at birth or postnatal illnesses can be contributing factors.
• Medication Exposure: Certain medications used during pregnancy or early childhood may also increase risk.
Environmental Factors
• Unstable Living Conditions: Cramped, crowded, or noisy environments may contribute to ADHD symptoms.
• Family Stress: High levels of psychological stress within the family can exacerbate ADHD-related behaviors.
• Screen Time: Excessive exposure to television, video games, and the internet has been linked to attention difficulties.
• Pollution: Environmental toxins may negatively affect brain development, increasing the likelihood of ADHD.
How to Support Children with ADHD
a. Medication
Medications can be effective in managing symptoms like hyperactivity and difficulty concentrating. Commonly prescribed options include:
• Stimulants (e.g., Concerta)
• Antipsychotics (e.g., Risperdal, Clonidine)
These medications should only be used under a doctor’s prescription. Parents must monitor for potential side effects, such as sleep disturbances, appetite loss, or headaches, and consult the doctor if any issues arise.
b. General Guidance for Parents
Supporting a child with ADHD at home involves patience, structure, and consistency.
• Encourage Responsibility: Assign manageable tasks to build the child’s self-esteem and sense of responsibility. Use clear and concise instructions, and support their memory with to-do lists.
• Establish Routines: Set regular times for meals, study, TV, sleep, and waking up. Consistency helps children feel secure.
• Prepare for Outings: Remind children of rules and expectations before going to public places.
• Limit Screen Time: Promote quiet activities like reading or drawing and reduce exposure to violent or fast-paced games.
• Encourage Physical Activity: Engage the child in sports or activities they enjoy and excel in, such as art or math.
• Manage Mistakes with Care: Provide gentle reminders and explanations when mistakes are made. Avoid physical punishment; instead, use consequences like time-outs or loss of privileges.
c. Helping Children with Learning
Children with ADHD often face challenges in school, but a supportive approach can help them succeed.
• Create a Study Routine: Set a specific time and quiet place for studying. Keep sessions short with breaks in between to maintain focus.
• Minimize Distractions: Remove unnecessary items and turn off TVs or phones during study time.
• Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Simplify assignments into manageable portions, with time limits for each step. Start tasks together, then gradually encourage independent work.
• Offer Praise and Encouragement: Celebrate effort and progress rather than focusing on mistakes. Provide guidance to help correct errors constructively.
• Seek Additional Support: If tutoring is challenging, consider help from teachers, tutors, or older siblings based on the child’s needs and abilities.
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Conclusion
Helping a child with ADHD requires a multi-faceted approach, involving medical professionals, parents, and the community. Early intervention, structured routines, and positive reinforcement are key to managing ADHD effectively. With the right support, children with ADHD can lead fulfilling and successful lives.
Do you have questions or strategies for managing ADHD? Share your thoughts in the comments below!