What is attention deficit disorder — the condition MI, wife are battling?

Jude ‘MI’ Abaga, the ace rapper, and Eniola, his wife, recently opened up on their struggle with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood.

A study estimated that ADHD affects 7.47% of children and adolescents in Africa, with prevalence greater in boys.

WHAT IS ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER?

ADHD, also called attention-deficit disorder, is a chronic brain condition that causes executive dysfunction, which means it disrupts a person’s ability to manage their own emotions, thoughts, and actions.

Therefore, ADHD is characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These symptoms usually occur together; however, one may occur without the other(s).

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF ADHD?

There are three different ways ADHD presents itself.

A person is diagnosed with one of these depending on which types of symptoms are strongest in the person’s behavior.

• Predominantly inattentive presentation

As the name implies, people with this type of ADHD suffer inattentiveness only.

They, therefore, have extreme difficulty focusing, organizing, finishing tasks, following instructions, and staying on track.

A study, however, showed that this type of ADHD is more common in girls than boys.

• Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation

People with this type of ADHD primarily show hyperactive and impulsive behavior. And less obvious issues with paying attention.

Hyperactivity means they may fidget, can’t sit still, have excess energy, and are extremely talkative.

While impulsivity means they may interrupt others and act without thinking it through first.

This is the least common type and typically affects younger children.

• Combined presentation

This is the most common type of ADHD, in both children and adults.

People with this type of ADHD display both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms; including an inability to pay attention, a tendency toward impulsiveness, and above-average levels of activity and energy.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ADHD?

The following are the most common symptoms of ADHD. However, each person may experience symptoms differently based on the type of ADHD.

For the predominantly inattentive presentation, the symptoms include;

• The short attention span for age (difficulty sustaining attention)
• Difficulty listening to others

• Difficulty in following instructions, finishing tasks
• Easily distracted
• Forgetfulness
• Poor organizational skills for the age
• Poor study skills for the age

For predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation;

• Fidgeting excessively
• Difficulty engaging in quiet activities
• Talks excessively
• Act without thinking
• Having difficulty remaining seated when expected
• Digging waiting fur their turn
• Interrupting other’s conversation
• Blurring out answers before being called
• Seems to be in constant motion, always running or jumping

While people with combined types of ADHD display behavior from the above-mentioned types.

WHAT CAUSES ADHD?

Even though ADHD is one of the most common disorders and researched areas in child and adolescent mental health, the precise cause remains unknown.

However, some researchers suggest that genetics play a vital role. It is said that ADHD often runs in families — a child with ADHD has a 1 in 4 chance of having a parent with the condition.

Also, research suggests that a reduction in dopamine is a factor in ADHD.

Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that helps move signals from one nerve to another. It plays a role in triggering emotional responses and movements.

HOW IS ADHD CURED?

As of now, there is no known or absolute cure for ADHD.

However, there are certain treatments and options to relieve and manage the symptoms.

Treatment for ADHD typically includes behavioral therapies, medication, or both.

• Behavioral therapy

For children, the therapy helps teach them behavior management. How to monitor and manage their behavior.

While adolescents and adults are taught other types of behavioral therapy and training such as social skills training or executive function training. This will help them learn and strengthen positive behaviors.

• Medications

Medication for ADHD includes stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants.

They are designed to affect brain chemicals in a way that enables the person to better manage impulses and actions.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following habits to improve the symptoms of ADHD;

• Eating a nutritious, balanced diet
• Getting at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day
• Getting plenty of sleep
• Yoga
• Limiting daily screen time from phones, computers, and TV