(NC)—Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological disorder that affects three to seven per cent of children. The disorder causes difficulties concentrating, sitting still, controlling emotions and listening. ADHD is one of the best-researched psychological disorders and the overall data on its validity are far more compelling than for most mental disorders. It is officially recognized by the World Health Organization.

Children with ADHD are not problem children, but children who have difficulty functioning. These difficulties can be addressed. These children often have special characteristics, such as being energetic, adventurous, intelligent, having a great sense of humor and the ability to throw themselves into their goals. Unfortunately, these characteristics sometimes go unnoted strictly because the difficulties caused by ADHD always seem to be front and centre.

The tendency of children with ADHD to be disorganized, forgetful and easily distracted sometimes makes it hard for their true colours to shine, but the potential is there and often just needs a helping hand.

Physicians, parents and educators routinely offer guidance by teaching children with ADHD that the disorder is a challenge, not an excuse. With the help of medication, which can correct the underlying chemical imbalance, along with appropriate counseling, they have a fair chance of reaching their full potential.

All medications currently approved to treat ADHD belong to a class called stimulants. A number of new investigational ADHD treatments offer great promise and in the future Canadians will have more choice in ADHD treatment.

Research has shown that up to 60 per cent of children continue to have symptoms into adulthood and this can cause career difficulties due to disorganization and attention deficiencies, but those who adapt to their condition as children can thrive personally and professionally.

For more information on ADHD, please visit your doctor.

- News Canada

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A Quick Note From The Publisher... If you like the article above, you may be interested in the following article which is also related to ADHD... When ADHD is Not Alone As a primarily childhood disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) can take its toll on a family and the child affected by ADHD. However, despite the fact that ADHD is seen in 3 to 5 percent of all children, it is sometimes not the only disorder present. Learning disabilities are commonly found in conjunction with ADHD. Statistics show that about 20 to 30 percent of children with ADHD also have a learning disability like dyslexia, spelling difficulties, or arithemetic disorders. The diagnosis of ADHD along with the learning disability can ensure that the school offer services so that the children are able to learn more effectively. Tourette syndrome is not found in a great number of children with ADHD, but it does sometimes accompany the disorder. Tourette's is often exhibited by tics, twitches, repetitive mannerisms, and maybe even outbursts of words. Like ADHD, it can often be controlled via medication. Oppositional Defiant Disorder, or ODD, is found in 30 to...

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