ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) in Children

We see many children that are usually distracted and face difficulty to focus on one thing. Such youngsters forget the things and do not pay attention to anyone. It is very difficult for them to complete any task as they become habitual of switching over to other tasks that seem to be more pleasant. These children suffer from ADD, i.e. Attention Deficit Disorder that usually continues in the adulthood too. This serious problem leads to delay in maturity of the brain.  Candidly, such children are quite different from the normal youngsters.

Symptoms of ADD – Children affected with this disorder are seen with the following symptoms:

1. Confusion, daydreaming and slow movements.
2. Inability to process the information in usual manners.
3. Difficulty in following instructions and completing the task.
4. Problems in focusing on anything.
5. Forgetfulness, easy distraction and boredom in any task.
6. Inattentiveness and difficulty to complete the homework.
7. Talk without break and squirm in the seats.
8. Keep on moving constantly.
9. Impatience.
10. Irresponsible actions without the fear of consequences.
11. Create interruptions in others’ conversations and activities.

Causes of ADD – Though nothing is certain about the exact reasons of this problem, yet it is suggested that genes are more responsible for it. Researchers are of the view that brain injuries, environmental factors, deficiencies in nutrition or social environment may also be behind Attention Deficit Disorder in the children.
Genes may run in families and the children may develop ADD from their parents. Environmental factors are also responsible for ADD.  Use of alcohol and tobacco by the mothers during pregnancy may also cause this problem. Children affected with brain injuries may also fall victim to ADD. Food additives, artificial flavors, food dyes or preservatives could also be behind this problem.

Diagnosis - Pediatricians and mental health specialists may diagnose ADD by going into the root causes. They usually check whether the child has problems linked with other medical conditions. Disorders related to their hearing, vision, behavior, thinking, learning abilities, depression, anxiety, psychiatric problems and other such factors are assessed by them. Some of the ADD children might have been affected due to family related circumstances including sudden death of a family member, loss of job of the parents or their divorce etc. School performances and the medical history of the concerned children are also checked by the specialists. Everything related to the child’s irresponsible behavior and activities is considered by the doctors who gather the information from his parents, family doctors and school authorities.