Understanding Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Symptoms

Inattention (difficulty maintaining focus):

Frequently makes careless mistakes or overlooks details
Struggles to maintain attention during tasks or activities
Appears not to listen when spoken to directly
Difficulty organizing and completing tasks
Avoids tasks requiring sustained mental effort
Regularly loses essential items like keys, books, or tools
Easily distracted by unrelated stimuli
Often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity (restlessness and impulsivity):

Frequently fidgets, taps hands or feet, or squirms
Unable to stay seated in situations requiring it
Restlessness, often described as being "on the go"
Difficulty engaging quietly in leisure activities
Excessive talking
Blurting out answers before questions are finished
Struggling to wait one's turn
Interrupting or intruding on others

Causes

ADHD results from a combination of:

Genetics: High likelihood within families (70–80% heritability)
Brain Function: Imbalances in brain chemicals, especially dopamine, affecting attention and impulse control
Environmental Factors: Exposure to substances during pregnancy (alcohol, tobacco), low birth weight, early exposure to toxins like lead
Developmental Factors: Complications during birth, premature birth, and early childhood stress or trauma

Complications

If untreated, ADHD can lead to long-term challenges:

Academic and Work Issues: Difficulty achieving educational or professional goals, frequent job changes
Social and Relationship Difficulties: Strained relationships, social isolation, and family conflicts
Psychiatric Concerns: Increased risk for anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, conduct disorders
Risky Behavior: Higher chance of accidents, injuries, and involvement in risky or impulsive activities

Prevention

Family history of ADHD or similar psychiatric conditions

Male gender (more commonly diagnosed in boys)
Prenatal exposure to substances like tobacco or alcohol
Early childhood adversity or unstable family environment
Premature birth or birth complications

Risk factors

While ADHD can't be entirely prevented, early recognition and intervention greatly improve outcomes:

Early Intervention: Identifying symptoms early through screening in educational and healthcare settings
Educational Strategies: Specialized teaching methods and support, such as Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
Behavioral Therapy: Techniques to improve organizational skills, impulse control, and social skills
Medication: Stimulant and non-stimulant medications to improve focus and decrease hyperactivity
Family and Community Support: Parent training programs, psychoeducation, and community resources to manage symptoms effectively

Consult with experienced Doctors

MGMCH is home to some of the most eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective arenas and are renowned for developing
innovative and revolutionary procedures

Dr. Manju Bhaskar

Professor & HOD

Experience16years

QualificationMBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
OPD Schedule

Book an Appointment
Dr. Aditya Soni

Professor

Experience13years

QualificationMBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
OPD Schedule

Book an Appointment
Dr. Nand Kishore Tak

Associate Professor

Experience13 years

QualificationMBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
OPD Schedule

Book an Appointment
Dr. Geetika Chopra

Assistant Professor

Experience7years

QualificationMBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
OPD Schedule

Book an Appointment
Dr. Shikha Sharma

Assistant Professor

Experience5years

QualificationMBBS, Post-Graduation in Psychiatry
OPD Schedule

Book an Appointment
Dr. Priyam Gupta

Assistant Professor

Experience2+years

QualificationMBBS, MD Psychiatry
OPD Schedule

Book an Appointment